Changes to the LMCC: A Faster, Simpler Pathway for Physicians, What ITPs Need to Know

The Medical Council of Canada (MCC) has announced significant updates to the process for obtaining the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC), changes that aim to simplify, modernize, and accelerate one of the key steps in the licensure pathway for physicians.

These updates will come into effect January 26, 2026.

For many ITPs, the LMCC has been a long-standing milestone that required not only passing the MCCQE Part I but also completing 12 months of postgraduate training in Canada or an approved jurisdiction. This requirement often created a barrier, particularly for ITPs who have successfully passed the MCCQE1 but are still navigating limited residency positions and PRA opportunities.

The new process represents a major shift, one that brings earlier recognition of medical qualifications and eliminates an unnecessary barrier.

What Is Changing?

Beginning January 26, 2026, the MCC will issue the LMCC based on only two criteria:

• A pass on the MCCQE Part I, and

• Successful source verification of the medical degree.

This means candidates will no longer need to complete 12 months of postgraduate training before becoming eligible for the LMCC.

For many ITPs, this is a meaningful improvement. Obtaining the LMCC earlier can strengthen future licensure applications, streamline credentialing for employers, and reduce administrative delays, particularly for those pursuing PRA programs or other alternative pathways.

Digital LMCC Issuance

The MCC will also shift to digital issuance of the LMCC as the standard:

• Candidates who qualify will receive a digital LMCC number automatically or upon request, depending on exam application timing.

• Optional printed documents, such as the Testamur or the wallet-sized registration card, will still be available for those who need a physical record, at an additional cost.

This move to digital documentation reflects Canada’s broader modernization of licensure processes and increases accessibility for physicians in Canada and abroad.

Reduced LMCC Fees

Under the new system, LMCC fees and eligibility will depend on when candidates applied for the MCCQE Part I and when they request their LMCC. Those who request the LMCC before January 26, 2026 must still meet the current requirements, including 12 months of postgraduate training, and will pay the full $267 fee, which includes a digital LMCC, printed Testamur, and wallet card. Candidates who applied for the MCCQE Part I before January 26, 2026 but request the LMCC after that date will no longer need postgraduate training; instead, they will pay a reduced $50 administrative fee, with optional printed documents available for $100 each. For those who apply for the MCCQE Part I after January 26, 2026, the LMCC will be issued automatically and at no cost, as soon as the candidate passes the exam and their medical degree is verified. Optional printed documents will still be available for the same $100 fee.

What This Means for ITPs

These changes are a positive step forward for ITPs, especially those who have successfully passed the MCCQE Part I but have struggled to secure supervised practice positions, residency spots, or other pathways requiring proof of licensure readiness.

By removing the 12-month postgraduate training requirement, the MCC is:

• Eliminating a significant barrier that disproportionately impacted ITPs

• Providing earlier recognition of medical qualifications

• Supporting a more efficient licensure pathway

• Helping align administrative processes with Canada’s urgent workforce needs

While the LMCC itself is not a license to practice, this update enhances credential mobility and reduces the administrative delays many ITPs experience while working toward independent practice in Canada.

Final Thoughts

This modernization reflects growing awareness of the need for timely, fair, and efficient licensure pathways, especially as Canada continues to face significant healthcare workforce shortages.

At ITPC, we continue to advocate for clearer, more accessible pathways to licensure for all ITPs. Removing unnecessary barriers and modernizing outdated processes is essential to ensuring that qualified physicians can contribute to the health of their communities.

We encourage all ITPs preparing for licensure to review the full MCC announcement and consider how these changes may impact their personal pathway.

📄 Read the full MCC announcement: https://mcc.ca/news/changes-ahead-for-issuance-of-the-lmcc-a-simpler-faster-and-more-modern-process/