The canada medical exemption immigration forum is a new public policy put in place by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This temporary public policy will allow some foreign nationals who are currently living in Canada to avoid the requirement for an additional immigration medical exam. This can significantly speed up the processing of their applications for permanent residence.
What is MCCEE?
The MCCEE is a mandatory exam for international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to write the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examinations (MCCQE). It is a four-hour computer-based exam. It is a general assessment of the candidate’s basic medical knowledge in the principal disciplines of medicine. It also assesses the candidate’s clinical decision-making abilities. The MCCEE differs from the USMLE in several ways, making it challenging for IMGs to understand and prepare for.
The process of getting a work permit as a physician-in-training is complex and involves many steps. You need to have an acceptable medical degree, source verification, and a passing score on the MCCQE. You also need to have malpractice insurance coverage from the Canadian Medical Protective Association.
IMGs who pass the MCCQE are considered LMCCs, or Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada. They can then practice medicine in Canada. The MCCQE is divided into two parts. The first part consists of 210 multiple-choice questions in a four-hour morning session. The second part consists of 38 short write-in questions in a three-and-a-half hour afternoon session.
The MCCQE has been criticized for its relevance, validity, and possible redundancy. Many resident physicians are still pondering why they should shoulder the costs of an exam that continues to exist mainly as a way to generate substantial revenues for the MCC.
Work Permit
After completing their studies at a Canadian medical school, international students may apply for a work permit to start working in Canada. The application process differs depending on whether the student is applying from within or outside of Canada, and it can take up to two years for a work permit to be approved.
A Canadian work permit is essential for a physician to practice in the country, as it enables them to earn CAD$100,000 annually. Moreover, it is also required for those who wish to gain admission to the country’s healthcare system, Medicare, where they can access free medical services. The application process can be lengthy, and applicants must submit a range of documents, including a letter from their employer that specifies their salary and position.
In a recent media release, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it will simplify the process of obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit for international medical graduates who have completed their education in Canada. This new policy will allow PGWP hopefuls to begin the PGWP process the same day they receive their official transcript and letter of graduation. It will also exempt them from the immigration medical examination requirement if they meet certain criteria. In addition, IRCC will allow PGWP applicants from inside or outside of Canada to apply.