International medical graduates

International medical graduates (IMGs) can apply for licensure in the provisional class, clinical observer class, assessment class or associate physician class.

These licensure classes are for physicians or surgeons who obtained their medical degree outside of Canada that is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. A Canadian sponsor note is required.

Types of licences

Provisional class

The provisional class of licensure permits a registrant to practise medicine with limits and conditions granted by the Registration Committee.

Learn more about the requirements for the provisional licence

Clinical observer class

The clinical observer class is for international medical graduates who want to participate in an educational experience or Canadian medical school graduates who want to enter a postgraduate training program in British Columbia.

Learn more about the requirements for the clinical observer licence

Assessment class

The assessment class is for international medical graduates whose postgraduate training was not obtained in a jurisdiction acceptable to the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

Learn more about the requirements for the assessment licence

Associate physician class

The associate physician class is for physicians who were not eligible for full or provisional licensure in BC. They may be eligible to apply for restricted licensure as associate physicians under the direction and supervision of attending physicians in acute care and community primary care settings.

Learn more about the requirements for the associate physician licence

Visiting physician class

The College grants short-term registration for up to six months to physicians from other jurisdictions, which allows them to provide limited medical care in a specific circumstance.

Learn more about the requirements for the visiting physician licence

Learn more about the policies that the Registration Committee uses to consider applications