Hey everyone, I’ve been seeing a lot of posts from folks with international medical or nursing training asking about Express Entry, especially in healthcare categories. It’s great that the government is prioritizing these fields, but there’s a big gap between getting an ITA and actually starting to work in your profession.

I’ve been reading up on the process, and it’s clear: getting invited to apply for permanent residence is just the first step. The real challenge often comes after landing—getting your credentials assessed, passing provincial licensing exams (like the MCCQE for doctors), completing bridge programs, and finding supervised clinical placements.

Even if you’re in the top 10% of Express Entry scores, the road to practice can still take years. Some provinces have waitlists for assessments, and language requirements (like IELTS 7+ in all bands) can be tough if English isn’t your first language.

So I’m curious—what’s been your experience? Is the biggest hurdle getting the PR application approved, or is it the certification and licensing process once you’re here? How long did it take you to get your license after landing? And what kind of support (from employers, schools, or government programs) helped you move forward?

Let’s hear from others who’ve walked this path—especially those with radiology, nursing, or other healthcare backgrounds. What part of the journey surprised you the most? Share your story, even if it’s still in progress.