Ontario Eases Licensing for 16 Health Jobs by 2026

Ontario Expands “As of Right” Program to 16 More Healthcare Professions

If you’re a healthcare professional certified in another Canadian province, there’s great news on the horizon—especially if Ontario is on your radar. The province is making big moves to cut red tape and speed up the licensing process for regulated healthcare workers. On January 1, 2026, Ontario plans to expand its “As of Right” legislation to include 16 additional healthcare occupations, making it easier for out-of-province professionals to start working much faster.

Key Highlights

• Ontario plans to add 16 more healthcare professions to its “As of Right” legislation.
• Workers certified in another province could start practicing in Ontario as soon as 10 days after credential verification.
• New rules aim to reduce the current 6-month licensing timeline dramatically.
• Physicians and nurses may receive Ontario certification in just two business days.
• The legislation is part of a broader effort to remove interprovincial barriers for close to 300 regulated professions.
• Implementation is scheduled for January 1, 2026.

What Is Ontario’s “As of Right” Framework?

The “As of Right” framework is a forward-thinking initiative by the Ontario government designed to streamline professional licensing for workers who are already certified in other provinces. Instead of waiting months to requalify, professionals can now be authorized to work in Ontario in as little as 10 days, provided their credentials are verified and they’re in good standing.

Originally rolled out for select healthcare roles—including physicians, surgeons, and nurses—the program is now expanding to include a much broader array of healthcare professionals. This move is part of Ontario’s larger plan to break down interprovincial barriers and boost access to essential services across the province.

Which Healthcare Professions Are Being Added?

The proposed expansion includes 16 new regulated healthcare occupations. These professionals will soon benefit from faster recognition of their credentials when moving to Ontario:

These additions will join the ranks of already-included occupations such as:

• Physicians
• Surgeons
• Registered Nurses
• Registered Practical Nurses
• Nurse Practitioners
• Respiratory Therapists
• Medical Laboratory Technologists

Why This Change Matters

Health systems across Canada are under increasing pressure due to staffing shortages and high demand. By making it easier for professionals to move between provinces, Ontario is taking a proactive step to fill healthcare gaps faster and provide Ontarians with timely, high-quality care.

This also reduces career disruption for healthcare workers who relocate from other provinces. Instead of spending months trying to requalify, they can get to work and settle into their new communities much more quickly.

Faster Certification for Physicians and Nurses

Perhaps the most impactful change for some will be the two-day turnaround for physicians and nurses. Through close collaboration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario and the College of Nurses of Ontario, the province intends to:

• Lower or eliminate application fees
• Streamline documentation requirements
• Issue certificates within just two business days

As stated by Ontario’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones, “By taking a first-in-Canada approach to streamline the labour mobility process, we are making it faster and easier for both our health system partners and clinicians to provide the world-class care Ontarians need, when and where they need it.”

Wider Impacts Across Regulated Professions

While healthcare is currently in the spotlight, it’s worth noting that the “As of Right” framework isn’t limited to this sector. The Ontario government’s broader plan covers nearly 300 regulated occupations across 50 regulatory bodies. So, whether you’re in skilled trades, education, or another regulated profession, these interprovincial labour mobility reforms may impact you too.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The proposed updates are set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Until then, the province will be working closely with relevant professional colleges and industry stakeholders to ensure a smooth rollout. If you’re planning to move to Ontario as a healthcare worker, this gives you time to prepare and stay informed about when and how to apply under the improved system.

Considering Manitoba Instead?

If you’re exploring different provinces, don’t forget that Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) also offers great pathways for healthcare professionals looking to immigrate or move within Canada. It’s worth comparing your options before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Ontario’s expansion of the “As of Right” legislation is a welcome change for healthcare professionals across Canada. It shows a strong commitment to easing labour mobility and ensuring that qualified talent can meet healthcare needs where it’s needed most. Whether you’re a physiotherapist, pharmacist, or optometrist, these updates may soon open new doors for your career in Ontario.

Thinking about making the move? We’re here to help you explore your options and understand how these changes might apply to you.

Ready to plan your next step? Check out our guide to working in Canada, or learn more about settling in Ontario.

Contact us today to stay informed and get personalized support with your licensing or immigration process!