Canada is facing a severe physician shortage, with an estimated 26,800 doctors needed between 2024 and 2033 to meet growing healthcare demands. Despite this, hundreds of internationally trained doctors are unable to secure residency positions, preventing them from practicing medicine in Canada. The licensing process is not only costly but can take years, discouraging many skilled professionals from joining the workforce.
For IMGs who aspire to become surgeons in Canada, navigating credential verification, licensing exams, and the residency matching process is essential. This guide outlines the steps required to become a licensed surgeon in Canada, ensuring internationally trained doctors can integrate into the healthcare system and help address the physician shortage.
Pathway to licensure for international medical graduates
Becoming a licensed surgeon in Canada as an IMG involves several key steps:
Step 1: Verify medical credentials
Ensure that your medical degree is from a school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. The Medical Council of Canada (MCC) requires this verification as part of the licensure process.
Step 2: Document evaluation:
Have your medical degree and credentials verified through the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) to ensure they meet Canadian standards. Submit your documents to the Physician Credentials Repository (MCC-PCR) for assessment, which is required for licensing exams and residency applications.
Step 3: Assess language proficiency
Proficiency in English or French is mandatory. If your medical education was not in one of Canada's official languages, you must pass a language proficiency test, such as the IELTS for English or the TEF for French.
Step 4: Complete the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I
This computer-based test assesses medical knowledge and clinical decision-making abilities. Passing the MCCQE Part I is a prerequisite for further steps in the licensure process.
Step 5: Pass the National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) Examination
The NAC Examination evaluates clinical skills through objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs). It is essential for IMGs seeking residency positions in Canada.
Step 6: Apply for residency through the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS)
Securing a residency position in a surgical specialty is highly competitive. A strong application should include high scores on qualifying exams, relevant clinical experience, and robust letters of recommendation.
Step 7: Complete surgical residency training
Residency programs in surgery typically last five years, during which residents gain hands-on experience in various surgical procedures and patient care.
Step 8: Obtain the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC)
After completing the MCCQE Part I and II, and one year of residency, candidates receive the LMCC, a requirement for medical practice in Canada.
Step 9: Achieve certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
This certification is necessary to practice as a surgeon and involves passing comprehensive examinations in your surgical specialty.
How much does a surgeon make in Canada
Surgeon salaries in Canada vary based on factors such as specialty, experience, and location:
- Average gross annual income: Approximately $573,586
- General surgeons: Average around $466,000 per year
- Cardiovascular surgeons: Among the higher earners, with incomes varying widely
Entry-level surgeons typically earn less, with salaries increasing significantly with experience and specialization.
How long does it take to become a surgeon in Canada
For international medical graduates (IMGs), the timeline to become a surgeon in Canada depends on several factors, including credential assessment, exam completion, and securing a residency position. The process typically takes:
- Credential verification & language proficiency tests – 6 months to 1 year (varies based on application processing time).
- Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I & National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) Exam – 1 to 2 years, depending on preparation and exam availability.
- Residency application through CaRMS – 1 to 2 years (matching into a surgical residency is highly competitive).
- Residency training in surgery – 5 to 6 years, depending on the surgical specialty.
- Royal College certification & final licensing – Up to 1 year, including fellowship training if required.
For most IMGs, the total process takes between 7 to 10 years, depending on exam performance, residency match success, and specialty requirements.
How Windmill Microlending Supports International Medical Graduates
Pursuing a surgical career in Canada involves significant financial investment, including costs for examinations, credential assessments, and residency applications. Windmill Microlending offers affordable loans to internationally trained medical professionals, helping to cover these expenses and facilitate a smoother transition into the Canadian healthcare system.
Embark on your journey to becoming a surgeon in Canada. Visit Windmill Microlending to learn how we can support your professional aspirations.
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