Ontario Stands Firm on Residency Rule for International Medical Graduates

Ontario defends controversial residency rules for international medical graduates despite criticism.

Ontario is facing mounting criticism over its new residency eligibility rule for international medical graduates (IMGs), but the province has made it clear it will not back down.

The policy requires IMGs—doctors trained outside Canada who are permanent residents or citizens—to have completed at least two years of high school in Ontario to qualify for the first round of residency matches. Those who do not meet this requirement may still apply in the second round for unfilled positions.

The government argues the rule is designed to strengthen long-term workforce planning and ensure that physicians who train in Ontario are more likely to remain in the province. However, critics—including medical associations and advocacy groups—warn that the change could worsen the already severe shortage of family doctors, with more than two million Ontarians currently without one.

Internationally trained doctors have expressed frustration, calling the policy unfair and exclusionary, especially as many had already invested significant time and money preparing for the residency application process. The Ontario Medical Association has also voiced concern that the rule could deter skilled physicians from practicing in the province.

Despite the backlash, provincial officials maintain that prioritizing candidates with strong ties to Ontario will help build a more stable and locally connected healthcare workforce.