The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has reported a significant surge in license applications from Quebec doctors, with nearly 300 physicians seeking to practice in Ontario during a single month period.
Unprecedented Application Volume
Between mid-October and mid-November 2025, the CPSO received nearly 300 license applications from medical professionals currently practicing in Quebec. This remarkable volume represents one of the largest interprovincial physician migration waves in recent Canadian healthcare history.
The data, released by the regulatory body in November 2025, highlights growing concerns about healthcare workforce distribution across provincial borders. The timing of this surge coincides with ongoing negotiations between provincial governments and medical associations regarding working conditions and compensation.
Factors Driving the Migration Trend
While the CPSO has not provided specific reasons for the sudden increase, healthcare analysts point to several potential factors. Differences in compensation structures, working conditions, and career advancement opportunities between the two provinces may be influencing physicians' decisions.
The application process for Ontario medical licenses typically involves credential verification, language proficiency testing for international medical graduates, and assessment of clinical skills. The college has streamlined its application system in recent years to address physician shortages in certain regions of Ontario.
Potential Impact on Healthcare Systems
This significant movement of healthcare professionals could have substantial implications for both provinces. Quebec may face increased pressure to address physician retention issues, while Ontario's healthcare system might benefit from additional medical expertise in underserved areas.
Medical associations in both provinces are monitoring the situation closely. The Canadian Medical Association has previously warned about the long-term consequences of interprovincial physician competition, particularly for rural and remote communities that struggle to attract and retain medical professionals.
The CPSO continues to process applications while maintaining its standards for medical practice in Ontario. The college emphasized that all applicants must meet the same rigorous requirements regardless of their province of origin.
