A recent social media post by Meghana Srinivas, a Bengaluru resident, has drawn widespread attention after she shared her experience of meeting a former military doctor driving cab in Canada. The doctor reportedly earns around US $4,000 a month, but spends nearly US $3,000 on rent, leaving little for other expenses.[1]
The video, originally shared on Instagram, quickly went viral and sparked a discussion on the growing number of highly qualified professionals—especially healthcare workers—who migrate to other countries but struggle to continue working in their trained professions.[2]
This situation reflects a well-documented challenge faced by international medical graduates (IMGs), who must requalify before being allowed to practise medicine in countries such as Canada, the United States, or the United Kingdom.
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Srinivas shared details about her interaction with the driver. She mentioned that he was originally from Afghanistan and had previously served as a military doctor with both the U.S. and Canadian forces. Currently settled in Canada as a permanent resident, he is in the process of requalifying for his medical license to resume practising medicine there.
In Canada, doctors trained outside Canada and the U.S. must complete a multi-step credential verification and licensing process. This includes passing the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examinations (MCCQE), providing verified academic transcripts, and often working under supervised clinical practice before independent licensure.[3]
Research shows that these barriers are not isolated incidents. A 2018 review in Medical Teacher found that IMGs frequently face limited residency placements, communication and cultural barriers, and unfamiliarity with local healthcare systems (Walsh et al., 2018). Another study published in Canadian Family Physician noted that many qualified physicians are unable to practise for extended periods, forcing them to seek alternative employment to support themselves financially.[4]
“I would encourage all future students and newcomers to Canada to do thorough research before moving — not only about the education system or cities but also about the realities of life here. Understand the job market, cost of living, and what it takes to re-establish your career in a new country,”
Meghana Srinivas, Realtor, Windsor
Beyond regulatory obstacles, the cost of living in major Canadian cities presents an additional strain. According to Statistics Canada (2024), average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Toronto or Vancouver ranges from US $2,500 to $3,000 per month. When combined with other living expenses and licensing fees, this leaves little room for savings—especially for newcomers awaiting certification.[5]
As a result, many foreign-trained doctors temporarily take up flexible jobs such as cab driving or delivery services. These roles offer immediate income and flexible hours, allowing time to study for licensing exams while adapting to a new social and professional environment. However, this also reflects the underutilization of skilled healthcare professionals, which can have long-term implications for the global health workforce.
“Canada offers incredible opportunities, but success here requires preparation, adaptability, and patience. Come with skills that are in demand, an open mind to learn, and the determination to grow. If you do that, this country truly rewards your hard work and resilience.”
Meghana Srinivas, Realtor, Windsor
Experts have long argued that such underemployment represents a loss of human capital in healthcare. Skilled physicians who cannot practise due to administrative or financial hurdles contribute less to patient care, even in regions where physician shortages exist. Streamlined bridging programs, mentorship opportunities, and transparent licensing pathways could help integrate international doctors more effectively.[4]
Balancing public safety and professional standards with equitable access to licensure remains an important policy concern for health authorities worldwide.
The story of a Bengaluru woman meeting a former military doctor driving a cab in Canada goes beyond a viral moment — it sheds light on a larger, global concern within the medical profession. Many skilled doctors who move abroad face long periods of uncertainty, navigating complex licensing systems, cultural adjustments, and financial pressures before they can return to practising medicine.
While strict standards are necessary to protect patient safety and uphold quality of care, there is also a need to create fairer and more supportive pathways for these professionals. Programs that help international doctors transition smoothly into new healthcare systems can make a real difference — both for the physicians and for the communities that need their expertise.
Ultimately, resolving these challenges is about more than professional opportunity; it is about building healthcare systems that value talent, promote inclusivity, and function more effectively across borders.
Hindustan Times. “Bengaluru Woman Meets Military Doctor Working as Cab Driver in Canada: ‘Earns $4,000, Pays $3,000 Rent’.” Hindustan Times, October 16, 2025.
Srinivas, Meghana. “Instagram Reel: Bengaluru Woman Meets Former Military Doctor in Canada.” Instagram, October 2025.
Government of Canada. “Medical Council of Canada: International Medical Graduates (IMGs).” Medical Council of Canada.
Wang Y, Das RLV, Lapa T, Marosan P, Pawliuk R, Chable HD, Lake D, Lofters A. Career development of international medical graduates in Canada: status of the unmatched. Humanit Soc Sci Commun. 2023;10(1):38.Epub 2023 Jan 30. PMID: 36741982; PMCID: PMC9885407.
Statistics Canada. “Average Rent and Housing Costs in Major Canadian Cities, 2024.” Government of Canada, 2024.
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