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IMG Secrets

IMGs Interested in Canada

Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program For International Medical Graduates

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program stands as a vital initiative from Canada, tailored to tackle labor market shortages across its four Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. In this engaging video, I’m excited to guide you, particularly if you’re an international medical graduate (IMG) doctor, through the nuances of this remarkable program. We’ll explore together the top 10 essential aspects you need to know about this opportunity. https://youtu.be/cRxiMhmj2Tk Book an Appointment What are the eligibility requirements for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)? First and foremost, let’s delve into who exactly is eligible for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. For IMG doctors eyeing this program, the primary requirement is securing a valid job offer from an employer within one of the participating Atlantic provinces. However, it’s crucial to note that this job offer must be for a position in a designated occupation. The good news for IMGs is that this encompasses a variety of healthcare professions, significantly broadening the accessibility of the program for medical professionals. To give you a concrete example, eligible roles could include positions like a clinical fellow or a research fellow. Essentially, any job that falls under the ‘skilled’ category as per the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system of the Government of Canada would meet the criteria. This classification ensures that the program is tailored to attract qualified and skilled medical professionals, aligning with the specific needs of the healthcare sector in these provinces. What is the job duration requirement for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program? Secondly, let’s discuss the job requirements, which are crucial for IMGs. The position must have a minimum duration of one year; while it can certainly extend beyond that, it must not be less than one year. On the employer’s side, whether it be a university or a hospital located in any of the four Atlantic provinces (Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick), they are required to obtain approval or designation from the provincial government. This authorization allows them to hire foreign workers, such as IMGs, through this program What are the language requirements for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program? Moving on to the third point: language requirements. I realize this can be a challenging aspect for many IMGs. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French.  For English proficiency, they need to take a designated language test, such as the  IELTS CELPIP Alternatively, for those focusing on French, the required exam is the TEF. How is education assessed for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program? The next requirement centers on your education. As IMGs, you must have your educational credentials assessed by a recognized organization to confirm they meet Canadian standards, which we’ll refer to as ‘video education’ standards. This step is particularly crucial for IMGs, and you may need to pass additional exams to practice in Canada. For those aiming for residency, it’s essential to take the MCCQE Part 1 and the NAC OSCE exams. On the other hand, if you’re pursuing a fellowship, these exams may not be necessary. Instead, you can seek guidance from our experts by clicking here, where we specialize in coaching IMGs like you to navigate the path to bypass residency.  Book an appointment with IMG Secrets Experts What does a settlement plan for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program involve? Number 5 is the plan to settle in Canada. For IMGs focused on moving to Canada, this is not a problem, but you’re required to demonstrate a settlement plan, saying that you have intentions and plans for living and working in one of these Atlantic provinces. This ensures that you are committed to further your career and your life, either alone or with your family. What does endorsement mean for the AIPP? The subsequent requirement involves obtaining an endorsement letter. Once a hospital or university extends a job offer, they must endorse the candidate for the Atlantic Immigration Program.  The government will review this endorsement and, upon approval, issue a letter of endorsement to the candidate. This means that with the backing of the hospital, you can now settle in one of the Atlantic provinces through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. Is everything clear up to this point? How does one obtain a work permit for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program? The next step involves obtaining a work permit. After securing a job offer and receiving a letter of endorsement from the government, you can apply for a work permit through one of the Canadian embassies in your home country. This permit is typically valid for the duration of your job offer. Initially, you may receive what is known as a work visa. Then, upon your arrival in Canada at your port of entry, you will be issued another document called the work permit. It’s crucial to have this document to legally work in Canada. What are the steps to gaining permanent residency through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program? The following step is permanent residency, a milestone I know many of you are eagerly anticipating. After working in one of the Atlantic provinces for typically one year, you, as an IMG, can apply for permanent residency through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. By this stage, you’ll already possess a few key elements: your job offer, the letter of endorsement, your work permit, and the requisite Canadian work experience. With these in hand, you could obtain Canadian permanent residency within a few months. While the duration can vary, it typically takes only a few months to complete this process. How does the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program accommodate family members? The next aspect to consider is if you have a spouse, children, or a common-law partner. In such cases, you can include them in your permanent residency application. Typically, your entire family will be approved for permanent residency in Canada simultaneously through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. This means your whole family can become permanent residents of Canada. Here’s the benefit: not only

Ultimate Beginner Guide for CaRMS Residency Match in Canada

If you’re an international medical graduate (IMG) with aspirations of practicing medicine in Canada through a residency program, the CaRMS matching process might initially appear bewildering. In this article, I’m here to demystify the entire CaRMS matching journey in a straightforward and accessible manner. I’ll begin by discussing the fundamental eligibility criteria that you need to meet. We’ll also delve into the examination prerequisites and the essential English language testing requirements. I’ll clarify whether having a USMLE score can be an advantage in this process. Next, we’ll explore the two CaRMS matching cycles that occur annually, giving you a sense of the timeline. I’ll also explain the significance of the Medical Identification Number of Canada, often referred to as MINC. Furthermore, we’ll dive into specific provincial requirements, particularly if you’re considering practicing in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, or Quebec. Each province can have its unique criteria and considerations. Finally, we’ll explore the concept of Casper, an important element in this process that you should be aware of. Together, we’ll navigate this intricate journey and make it more comprehensible for yo 1. Basic Eligibility Requirements There are three fundamental eligibility requirements for pursuing a residency in Canada, and let’s break them down: Canadian Permanent Resident or Citizen: To begin with, you must hold either Canadian permanent resident status or be a Canadian citizen. This is a notable distinction from the U.S., where you can apply for residency without requiring any visas or a green card. It’s an important criterion to keep in mind when comparing the two systems. 2. World Health Organization Recognition: Your medical college or medical school needs to be recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). You can easily verify this by visiting the World Directory of Medical Schools website, wdoms.org. Let’s walk through an example to illustrate this. I’ll navigate to the World Directory of Medical Schools website, click on ‘Search the World Directory,’ and select a country and city. For instance, I’ll choose Bangalore, India. Here, you’ll find a list of all medical schools or colleges in Bangalore. This process can be applied to any country or city you’re interested in. Next, click on a specific medical school; let’s say, ‘Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute.’ You’ll find four tabs: ‘School details,’ ‘Contact information,’ ‘Program details,’ and ‘Sponsor notes.’ What you’re looking for is the ‘Canada’ note under ‘Sponsor notes.’ This indicates that your medical college has granted you the eligibility to register with the Medical Council of Canada and subsequently participate in the CARMS matching process. If you were interested in pursuing a medical career in the U.S., you’d look for a similar note from ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates), USA. These eligibility requirements are pivotal in ensuring that you’re on the right track to pursuing your medical career in Canada. By following these steps, you can confirm your eligibility and take the necessary steps to achieve your goals in the Canadian healthcare system. https://videos.files.wordpress.com/BUSse0gI/video-who.mov 3. Graduation Date: The third essential eligibility requirement hinges on your graduation date, which is a crucial factor. To be eligible for the residency match, your graduation must occur before July 1st of the year in which you intend to commence your residency. Let me illustrate this with a practical example: Suppose your aspiration is to embark on your residency in 2025. In that case, your graduation date must fall before July 1st, 2025. For Canadian medical graduates, the process unfolds as follows: If they plan to initiate their residency in 2025, they kickstart their application journey in September of 2024 when the application period opens. This process spans several months, and ideally, before the anticipated residency commencement in July, they receive notification of their successful match. This allows them to seamlessly transition from their final year of medical school directly into their residency, creating a smooth, uninterrupted pathway. However, as an international medical graduate (IMG), you are subject to the same graduation requirements. In my personal view, expediting your internship completion is advantageous. This approach provides an added layer of security because many countries only issue graduation certificates once the internship is finalized. It’s important to note that this process differs from Canada, and it’s a point worth considering for IMGs. By understanding and adhering to these graduation requirements, you can navigate the complexities of the Canadian residency matching process with greater confidence and clarity. 2. Examination Requirements The examination requirements often stand out as a source of concern for many international medical graduates (IMGs). The landscape of these examinations in Canada has undergone several changes over the years, and it can be quite overwhelming to navigate. When I began my journey in Canada, there was an exam called MCCEE, short for “Evaluating Examinations.” Thankfully, MCCEE is no longer part of the process, and Canada has also phased out MCCQE2. As of now, to simplify things, you primarily need to focus on two exams: MCCQE1 (Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination Part 1) and NAC (National Assessment Collaboration), which is an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)-based assessment. The good news is that all provinces in Canada currently require these two exams. However, there’s a catch that many IMGs wonder about: “Can I use my USMLE scores for the Canadian application?” At the time of writing this article, the only province that allows you to use USMLE or NBME (National Board of Medical Examiners) scores in place of MCCQE1 is Nova Scotia. Please note that this could change, so it’s essential to stay updated on provincial requirements. There are also some exceptions related to NAC. If, by any chance, you completed MCCQE2 (which is no longer offered) in the past, you can use it for applications in Quebec and Ontario. Yes, it can get quite confusing! The purpose of this video is precisely to bring clarity to these complex processes. Many IMGs find it challenging to navigate this journey despite the information available online and in various videos. That’s why we offer coaching and guidance for

How Can IMGs Convert Visitor Visa to Work Visa in Canada ?

Are you an international medical graduate (IMG) dreaming of exploring the beauty of Canada or perhaps you already have a visitor visa in hand? Well, here’s some exciting news that might just make your stay even more incredible. Canada now offers you the incredible opportunity to transform your visitor visa into a fully paid visitor work visa or work permit while you’re right here in the Great White North. How amazing is that? But wait, there’s a deadline you should mark on your calendar – make sure your work permit application is submitted by February 28th, 2025. In today’s article, I’m going to guide you through the entire process of securing your work visa, break down the eligibility criteria, and give you the lowdown on the costs involved. This will help you establish yourself as a Doctor in Canada. So, whether you’re a current visa holder or you’re planning your Canadian adventure, let’s embark on this journey together and unlock the potential of your Canadian experience! Visitor Visa/Plan Before Visiting If you’re contemplating a move to Canada on a visitor visa, here’s a strategic move to consider: plan ahead and secure an observer ship in a hospital before you make the journey. Why, you ask? Well, because once you’re in Canada, it can be a bit trickier to find such opportunities, but if you’re already on Canadian soil, you’ll have a better chance at landing an observer ship. Once you’ve touched down in Canada with your visitor visa, go about your usual activities, but don’t forget to pursue your observer ship as well. It’s essential to establish connections with Canadian consultants during this time. Share your qualifications and passion for your field to demonstrate what a strong applicant you are. Be on the lookout for paid job openings as well. If you happen to be a recent graduate, you’re likely to find yourself in a research position. However, if you’ve already completed your residency in your home country, you might just be in the running for a paid clinical fellowship or, in rare cases, a fully-fledged attending physician or consultant position in Canada. Yes, it does happen! I’ve witnessed these success stories firsthand. If you’re eager to discover whether you’re eligible and want a clear roadmap for the specific steps you need to take, visit www.imgsecrets.com and schedule an appointment. I’ll personally guide you through the precise actions required to maximize your chances of a successful application. Once you’ve landed the job, get ready for the application process, which may include an interview to seal the deal. I want to book an appointment https://videos.files.wordpress.com/ZQqhwCbn/plane-take-off-to-canada.mov Job Interview & Offer After acing the interview, you’ll receive a coveted job offer. The specifics of this offer may hinge on a labor market assessment, but here’s the great news for you, as an IMG – you won’t have to lose sleep over this. The hospital that’s keen to bring you on board will handle all the necessary paperwork and logistics. Your primary focus is to secure that job offer. Once you’ve achieved this milestone, it’s time to apply for a closed work permit. Now, here’s the icing on the cake: Canada has generously extended this opportunity until February 28, 2025. Initially launched as a pilot program during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been prolonged due to critical labor market shortages. As an IMG, this extension opens up an extraordinary window of opportunity for you to land a well-paying job in Canada. Seize the moment! Eligibility for Work Visa/Work Permit Once you’ve submitted your application, the magic typically happens within a swift 30-day timeframe, and voila, you’ll have your work permit in hand. In the past, the process was far less convenient – if you happened to secure a job offer, you’d need to bid farewell to Canada, apply for a visa from outside the country, and then re-enter. But now, this entire transformative journey unfolds while you’re comfortably within Canada on your visitor visa. No need to pack your bags and say goodbye – you can stay put in Canada throughout the process. Isn’t this simply fantastic? And here’s an extra perk: if you have a spouse accompanying you, they’ll be eligible for what’s known as an open work permit. In essence, it empowers them to seek employment across a wide spectrum of job opportunities. Finding a job, of course, may present its own challenges, but at least they’ll have the eligibility for an open work permit, opening doors to various possibilities Is it possible for my family and me to secure permanent residency in Canada? What makes this entire journey even more remarkable is that once you’ve secured a job successfully and gained one year of valuable work experience, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency. In my view, this is one of the most favorable pathways to attaining permanent residency in Canada, known as the Canadian Experience Class. The beauty of it all is that when you obtain permanent residency in Canada, it’s not just about you; it’s a golden ticket for your entire family. Your spouse, your children – everyone becomes eligible to embark on their own journey to Canadian permanent residency, allowing you all to collectively join the ranks of Canadian PRs. It’s a remarkable opportunity for your entire family to call Canada your new home Who qualifies for the transition from a visitor visa to a work visa? Essentially, any IMG holding a valid visitor visa on the day of application is eligible to make this transition – it’s that straightforward. And here’s the icing on the cake: there’s no age limit, which is fantastic news. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, or even beyond, this pathway remains open to you. Last but certainly not least, you must fulfill all the other standard criteria for entry into Canada and obtaining a work visa. This entails being a legal resident with the necessary qualifications and experience to match the specific job you’re pursuing

How Do IMGs Enhance Their CV While Awaiting a Match? A Survey

I approached accomplished and highly experienced international medical graduates (IMGs) who have established their careers in the United States and Canada with a pertinent inquiry: How do unmatched IMGs enhance their CV while awaiting a match? To ensure a comprehensive perspective, I sought the counsel of these seasoned professionals currently practicing in the US and Canada. Employing a systematic approach, I devised a survey comprising eight distinct options: Exploring Research Roles: Involvement in research-oriented positions. Navigating Medical Coding & Billing: Engaging in medical coding and billing tasks. Venturing into Industry Sectors: Pursuing opportunities within the pharmaceutical industry. Assuming Medical Scribe Roles: Assisting physicians with administrative tasks and documentation. Contributing to Clinical Settings: Participating in non-physician roles within clinics or hospitals. Embarking on Medical Writing: Crafting medical-related content and documentation. Undertaking Non-Skilled Employment: Seeking employment in sectors such as retail, gas stations, or factories. Exploring Other Avenues: Remaining open to alternative avenues beyond the predefined options. Through these distinct options, I aimed to encapsulate a wide array of potential paths for unmatched IMGs, all of which were gleaned from the firsthand experiences and knowledge shared by these accomplished IMGs. Let’s check what I found: Click here to book an appointment Experienced IMGs Say This (Survey Results) 1. Research Jobs The insights provided by these seasoned professionals uniformly revealed that a common route observed among unmatched IMGs is their engagement in research-oriented roles. This encompasses positions such as research fellows, research coordinators, and research associates. In certain instances, these individuals might be under a J1 visa arrangement, receiving compensation for their contributions. Alternatively, for unmatched IMGs, a promising avenue entails initiating voluntary involvement in research endeavors, eventually transitioning into a remunerated role when circumstances permit. Understanding this trend proves invaluable, particularly for unmatched IMGs seeking a strategic direction. Opting for the path of least resistance and aligning with established trajectories emerges as an optimal approach based on this collective wisdom. 2. Non-Physician Roles The second prevalent avenue pursued by unmatched IMGs is engagement in non-physician roles within clinics. This option holds immense promise. For IMGs who have yet to secure a match, the approach involves proactively approaching local clinics, and offering assistance with various administrative tasks. This entails responsibilities such as organizing files, managing phone inquiries, and coordinating patient appointments. While these tasks might not initially demand specialized skills, the strategic advantage lies in the establishment of professional connections and collaborations with U.S. or Canadian consultants. The potential benefits extend beyond the role itself: it opens the door for obtaining valuable letters of recommendation from board-certified or Royal College-certified consultants. Notably, this arrangement typically offers compensation. Interestingly, this trajectory is particularly prevalent among international dental graduates, who often leverage their expertise by stepping into such roles upon completing their training programs in their home countries before venturing to the U.S. or Canada. Similarly, unmatched IMGs also find this avenue appealing and viable. 3. Medical Writing Insights gathered from 33 percent of seasoned experts underscored that medical writing stands as the third prevalent path undertaken by IMGs. In this realm, medical writing serves either educational or regulatory objectives. For IMGs, the focus predominantly veers towards educational content creation. This involves aiding in crafting diverse materials such as newsletter articles or potentially engaging in research-related endeavors where tasks encompass abstract and manuscript composition. This avenue holds dual possibilities—it might entail compensation, or it could be a voluntary undertaking. The overarching objective here is twofold: to bolster one’s CV and to foster connections within the U.S. medical landscape. This trajectory proves instrumental in attaining both these aspirations. 4. Industry Jobs The next pursuit adopted by IMGs revolves around striving to secure positions within the pharmaceutical industry. While this avenue might appear promising at first glance, I can personally attest to its challenges based on my own experiences. I’ve encountered instances where my efforts to assist individuals in accessing pharmaceutical roles encountered roadblocks, despite the presence of my own professional connections. This highlights the considerable difficulty in breaking into this sector, particularly for individuals who are recent graduates. It’s crucial to understand that gaining entry into the industry job market, especially for those who are fresh graduates, is an arduous task. While possessing board certification in the U.S. or Royal College certification in Canada can potentially alter the landscape, IMGs who are concurrently navigating the journey toward residency face distinct challenges. While success stories do exist within the IMG community, it’s essential to recognize that this accomplishment remains the achievement of a minority. How about non skilled jobs? Among the experiences I’ve personally encountered, I’ve come across instances involving two IMGs that offer important lessons. The first case involves an IMG who, due to a myriad of personal reasons, found themselves unable to secure a residency position in the U.S. As time passed, they became a more seasoned graduate and found themselves employed in a retail store. I am not saying any particular job is good or bad but rather i would expect as an IMG you move out of your home country to focus on a skilled job. Although these stories are fortunately rare, they do underscore the significance of making well-informed decisions, standing out amidst competition, and seizing every opportunity available. In this pursuit, I strongly recommend exploring www.imgsecrets.com, a platform where valuable insights can be gleaned. Furthermore, I invite you to schedule a personal appointment with me by clicking here, where we can delve into your unique journey as an IMG. During our one-on-one video call, I will attentively listen to your circumstances, review your CV, and provide tailored recommendations to guide your next steps. This ensures that your efforts are strategic and well-directed, minimizing the risk of investing considerable time and resources without achieving the desired outcomes. As an IMG, your ultimate aspiration is undoubtedly success. Often, achieving this requires thinking outside the conventional paradigms. For instance, I recently engaged with an IMG who, while pursuing matching into a Residency program, was also contemplating a venture into the business realm. I encouraged this individual

Deciding My PG Training: Home Country or Canada?

As a medical student on the cusp of completing your training, a monumental question invariably arises: where should you pursue your postgraduate training or residency – in your familiar home country or amidst the uncharted territories of an overseas opportunity? In the following discourse, I will share my insights, informed by six pivotal factors, aimed at aiding you in this decision-making journey. Ultimately, I’ll also provide valuable guidance tailored to you International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to assist you in arriving at an informed and personally fitting choice. Book an Appointment 1. Long-Term Career Goal Absolutely, the most important thing to think about is what you want to do in the long run as a doctor. Let’s make this easier to understand. Just imagine your journey as a doctor: where do you want to work the most? If you want to focus on practicing medicine in your own country, then it makes sense to do your training there. On the other hand, if you’re thinking about working as a doctor in Canada, then you have options – you could do your training in Canada or even in the USA. But remember, this is a simple way to look at it. There are many other things to think about too. Choosing to train where you plan to work has some big benefits. You’ll get used to how things work there, and you’ll meet lots of important people during your training who can help you throughout your medical journey. I’m saying all of this based on my own experience over many years. https://videos.files.wordpress.com/VJfIyEvC/video-goal.mov 2. Family Connection The next big thing to consider, which is really important for many IMGs, is your family. Where does your family live? Are they in your home country, and you want to be near them, or do they live in a different country?  Now, if you don’t get along with your family or don’t like them, that’s a different situation. But if you care about staying close to your family, then you should focus on those countries. Being near your family is so important, and many IMGs realize this. It’s not just IMGs; even other people who have moved from one country to another feel the same way. I talk to many people from different jobs who are immigrants, and they feel this too. After all, family is family, and parents are parents. https://videos.files.wordpress.com/ox3QjWfN/video-indian-family.mov 3. Financial Situation The third factor that often comes into play is money matters. For some IMGs who don’t have a lot of money, they might be thinking about moving to Canada or the USA because they believe they can earn a higher income there and have a better quality of life. They could face challenges paying for their exams, affording the travel to the U.S. or Canada, and dealing with other money-related issues. In such cases, it could be a good idea for these IMGs to think about doing their residency in their own country first. Then, once they’ve got their footing, they could consider moving to the USA or Canada for further specialized training, like a fellowship. 4. Training Opportunities Another important aspect to think about is the training options offered in your home country. Sometimes, there are places where the training opportunities are quite limited. In situations like these, IMGs might find it helpful to move to the USA or Canada for their residency where there are more structured programs available. They could even think about returning to their home country after their training to make a positive impact. This might involve starting new programs, engaging in research, or introducing innovative ideas to benefit their own community. There’s a whole range of possibilities for IMGs to explore. 5. Country in a Mess! The fifth consideration is if you’re living in a country facing tough times, like an economic crisis or a war that makes it really challenging for you to stay there. This situation has two perspectives. I don’t mean to suggest that you should immediately leave your home country when there’s a problem – often, your home country might need you more than ever. In such cases, IMGs can explore the option of completing their training abroad and then returning to their home country to make a positive impact. It’s all about finding a way to contribute meaningfully. 6. Dual Exposure Lastly, the sixth point I’d like to highlight is what I refer to as “dual exposure,” and this is something I hold in high regard. If you have the opportunity to pursue your postgraduate training or residency in a top-notch institution within your home country, I strongly suggest you consider that option. Even if it means that you might have to redo your residency when you later move to the USA or Canada, it’s a decision worth considering. While it might seem like you’re repeating three to five years of training, the substantial exposure you can gain from exceptional institutions in your home country can genuinely bolster your career journey. My Experience From India.. Let’s dive into a specific example from my own experience as an IMG from India. Imagine you have the opportunity to secure a residency spot at a prestigious institution like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi or the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, or Any other renowned medical centers in India. In this scenario, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to seize that opportunity. The clinical exposure and experience you’ll gain in such institutions are simply unparalleled. To put things into perspective, I underwent my anesthesia residency at PGIMER in Chandigarh, and I was truly impressed by the program’s structure, the caliber of the faculty, and the exceptional co-residents I had. As IMGs, we recognize that the quality of training can vary significantly across different locations – and this holds true not just in the U.S. and Canada but everywhere. Canada, for instance, has 17 universities, and some of these institutions might be situated in

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