Canadian Free Trade Agreement
Physicians and surgeons who do not meet the licence requirements in the full class but hold a full and unrestricted licence in another Canadian jurisdiction may be eligible for a full licence with CPSBC under the provisions of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA).
What is the CFTA?
The CFTA is an agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments of Canada.
One of its objectives is to reduce and eliminate, to the extent possible, barriers to “free movement” or to labour “mobility” within Canada.
Eligibility under the CFTA
The CFTA provides that physicians who hold a full and unrestricted licence in another Canadian jurisdiction may be eligible to apply for a full licence with CPSBC without having to undergo significant additional training, examination or assessment.
In assessing an applicant’s eligibility pursuant to the CFTA, CPSBC will undergo its standard process which includes a review of the following:
- fitness to practise
- currency in practice
- criminal record
- complaints and discipline history
- English language proficiency
- compliance with relevant requirements under the Health Professions and Occupations Act and related CPSBC Bylaws
- public safety considerations
CPSBC will assess whether additional requirements are warranted depending on the circumstances. In cases where there are current conditions or restrictions on the applicant’s licence in another Canadian jurisdiction, CPSBC will consider whether the same can be accommodated by an equivalent condition or restriction in BC.
Note: The above information does not cover all circumstances. A definite answer with respect to eligibility for licensure can only be given following the submission of an application with supporting documentation and the required documentation fee.
How to apply
Applicants can apply through physiciansapply.ca
- Complete the Application for Medical Regulation (AMR)
- Apply no more than three months prior to their intended start date
Applicants who do not wish to apply through physiciansapply.ca can email licensing@cpsbc.ca for a PDF application form.