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The UK to BC Pathway

Two tracks run in parallel — licensing and immigration. Most UK GPs are ready to work in the Lower Mainland within 6–10 months of starting the process.

2026 Update

BC's HPOA (April 2026) explicitly removes unnecessary barriers for internationally trained doctors.

Work permits now processed in 14 days for nominated physicians.

Discuss your situation
Track B: Immigration
LMIA Work Permit
Fastest route. 14 days for nominated physicians. Most common starting point.
BC PNP + Express Entry
After 1 year of work, access the physician-specific Express Entry draw (2026).
1
Track A

Confirm Your Stage

We work with GPs who are CCT-complete or within 1-2 years. With MRCGP and CCT you qualify for Certification Without Examination (CWE) via CFPC – bypassing Canadian exams entirely.

2
Track A

Canada-Level Verification

Submit your degree, transcripts, CCT proof, references, and work history via PhysiciansApply.ca. Start before CCT is complete – earlier is always better. Typically 3-4 months.

3
Track A

BC Medical Licence

Once Canada confirms your training, you apply to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC. BC's HPOA (April 2026) explicitly removes unnecessary barriers for internationally trained doctors.

4
Track A

Health Authority and Clinic Match

Your file goes to Vancouver Coastal or Fraser Health, confirming a clinic position. We work with Health Match BC to match you to the right Medico Health clinic in the Lower Mainland.

5
Track A

Supervised Practice

You begin under a named BC supervisor (3+ years' experience) on the same pay scale, providing full clinical care. The supervisor is your mentor – not a gatekeeper.

Complete

Full Independent Practice

After your supervised period you move to full independent practice – building your own patient panel, setting your schedule, and growing your income in a well-supported Lower Mainland clinic.

Once you arrive in BC, see our Settling In Canada guide for everything you need on day one — SIN, BC Services Card, ICBC driver's licence, banking, schools, and more.

Settling In Canada →