Hi there. I am trained as a cardiologist in the US. I am a US greencard holder, foreign national. I recently was offered a job in Ontario to practice as a cardiologist (I have an offer letter/contract). I have had 7 years of working experience in the US.
I was wondering, is there any way I can apply for permanent residency or work permit directly without going through the LMIA? I heard it is time and labour consuming and while the hospital is not opposed to doing it, I would like to avoid it if possible, especially if there is a pathway that leads to Canadian Permanent Residency directly.
Am I eligible for the FSWP? If yes, how long is the process?
You need an approved LMIA to apply for a work permit.
You could look into applying for FSW if you think you meet the requirements for Specialist Physician (NOC 3111). It will likely take you a few months to get your application together and several additional months of processing. So I would guess you'd be waiting until next summer before you have PR if you go this route.
No - the provincial nominee program is not the same as the FSW program. If you qualify to apply through one of the provinces - that's certainly an option as well. You'll have to research the provinces you're interested in to see if you qualify to apply. Note that in many cases a job offer + LMIA is required.
