Immigration

Each year, Ontario welcomes more than half of all immigrants to Canada. Newcomers play a key role economically, socially, and culturally in making Ontario strong and prosperous. Many newcomers are highly qualified professionals who have specialized skills and knowledge to offer. The Ontario government is committed to helping newcomers integrate quickly into the workforce and society.

Coming to Canada as an immigrant is an exciting opportunity, but potentially one with challenges. If you want to immigrate to Ontario as a permanent resident, you must first apply to the Government of Canada. Contact Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), www.cic.gc.ca, the federal department that establishes immigration policy and determines who can enter Canada, for information on permanent resident status. CIC also offers programs and services to help newly arrived immigrants adapt and settle in Canada.

Health professionals can apply to enter Canada as "skilled workers." In the Skilled Worker Class, an applicant’s suitability is assessed using a point system that takes into account occupation, education, experience, age and language ability.

The Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Ontario offers a Newcomer Settlement Program. It also supports a number of initiatives including bridge training for health care positions for internationally trained individuals. Contact www.citizenship.gov.on.ca for more information.

Immigration and Work Permits
For practice-ready physicians, the Recruitment and Relocation Department of the HealthForceOntario Marketing and Recruitment Agency will explain the process of applying for permanent residence or a work permit and connect you with expert advice.

The Ontario Immigration website www.ontarioimmigration.ca provides information on what to do ahead of time to ease the arrival in Ontario, specifically how to apply to immigrate and what documents to bring. As well it details how to: become a Canadian citizen, find employment and a place to live, enroll children in school, learn English and apply for health insurance. The site also provides an overview of life in Ontario, along with guides on the practical aspects of living, working, doing business, and studying in the province.