A New Step Toward a More Mobile Canadian Workforce
The Government of Ontario has announced new legislation to make it easier for health-care professionals licensed in other provinces or territories to work in Ontario without undergoing lengthy re-registration procedures. The goal is to strengthen labour mobility, reduce administrative delays, and address ongoing healthcare shortages across the province.
Streamlined Licensing and Faster Access to Care
Under the proposed framework, physicians, nurses, and other regulated health professionals who are licensed and in good standing elsewhere in Canada will be able to begin practicing in Ontario more quickly.
The province intends to collaborate with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) to minimize fees and documentation requirements. Eligible applicants will be able to receive certificates of registration within two business days.
Previously, Ontario’s “as of right” rule allowed professionals such as doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists to work for up to six months while awaiting registration. The new legislation will expand this streamlined process to 16 additional regulated professions, including:
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Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
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Dentists and Dental Hygienists
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Dietitians and Midwives
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Optometrists and Opticians
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Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians
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Physiotherapists and Psychologists
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Occupational and Medical Imaging Technologists
This expansion is expected to help Ontario health institutions fill urgent staffing gaps and ensure that patients across the province have timely access to care.
A Coordinated National Strategy
The Ontario government has framed this reform as part of a broader national effort to enhance credential recognition and facilitate interprovincial labour mobility. The initiative also supports the Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada Act, 2025, which aims to remove internal trade and labour barriers across provinces.
According to the Government of Ontario, more than 100,000 new nurses and nearly 20,000 physicians have joined the province’s healthcare system since 2018. Yet, as the population continues to grow and age, demand for qualified professionals remains high. By simplifying licensing processes, Ontario hopes to maintain momentum and strengthen its position as a national leader in healthcare delivery and innovation.
VisaServe Commentary
At VisaServe Immigration Law P.C., we view this as a forward-looking and practical development for healthcare professionals seeking mobility within Canada. Simplifying provincial licensing reduces administrative barriers, encourages uniform standards, and creates new opportunities for qualified professionals to contribute their skills where they are most needed.
Our Canadian immigration team regularly assists healthcare employers, clinics, and professionals with licensing, work authorization, and cross-border mobility under IRCC and provincial frameworks. Whether you are a physician relocating from another province or an international medical graduate pursuing licensing in Canada, Visaerve can guide you through every step of the process to ensure a compliant and efficient transition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Ontario’s “as of right” rule?
It allows licensed healthcare professionals from other provinces or territories to begin practicing in Ontario without repeating the full registration process, provided they are in good standing.
2. Which professions are now included?
The new legislation expands coverage to 16 additional regulated professions, including dentists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists.
3. How soon can professionals begin working?
The province aims to issue registration certificates within two business days for eligible applicants.
4. Does this apply to internationally trained professionals?
Not directly. This reform applies to those already licensed in another Canadian province or territory. However, internationally trained workers may benefit indirectly once they obtain a provincial license elsewhere in Canada.
5. Why is Ontario implementing this reform?
Ontario continues to face increased healthcare demand due to population growth and aging demographics. The goal is to attract and deploy skilled professionals quickly to improve patient access province-wide.
Contact Visaserve Immigration Law P.C.
If you are a healthcare professional exploring opportunities in Canada, or an employer seeking assistance with work authorization, licensing, or mobility compliance, our legal team is here to help.
📩 Email: info@visaserve.ca
📞 Phone: 905-203-2266
🌐 Website: www.visaserve.ca
Tags: [ Ontario health professional licensing reform, interprovincial mobility, healthcare labour shortage, IRCC regulations, Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. ]
