Nursing Jobs in Canada: Canada is hiring nurses from different countries to fill healthcare positions. This guide explains how to apply and succeed.
Overview
Nurses are in high demand across Canada. Hospitals, clinics, and care homes need trained workers. Foreign nurses can apply if they meet set standards. Working as a nurse in Canada offers good pay. You also get benefits such as pension and health coverage. Many provinces now welcome skilled nurses from abroad.
Status
Nursing recruitment is currently open in different provinces. Canada accepts foreign-trained nurses every year. Demand is strong due to staff shortages.
Applicants must check each province’s health board. Requirements vary between provinces. Most applications are online.
Official Portals
Each province has a nursing regulatory body. Applicants must apply through the right body.
Some main portals include:
Ontario: www.cno.org
British Columbia: www.bccnm.ca
Alberta: www.nurses.ab.ca
Saskatchewan: www.crns.ca
Nova Scotia: www.crnns.ca
Federal information: www.canada.ca
Eligible Countries
Canada hires nurses from many nations. Applicants from all Parts of the globe is welcomed.
Available Nursing Jobs
Nursing jobs are offered in different fields.
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Psychiatric Nurse
- Home Care Nurse
- Critical Care Nurse
- Pediatric Nurse
- Geriatric Nurse
Hospitals, private clinics, and home health agencies all hire nurses.
Requirements
- Applicants must meet both general and professional standards.
- Valid nursing degree or diploma from a recognized school.
- Proof of professional registration in home country.
- English or French language test (IELTS or CELPIP).
- Nursing license recognized in Canada (NCLEX-RN or similar exam).
- Clean medical and criminal record.
- Work experience is often required.
Some provinces also require bridging programs. This helps foreign nurses meet Canadian standards.
Steps to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for a nursing job in Canada.
1: Credential Evaluation
Apply through National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS).
Submit transcripts, licenses, and identification.
Pay the evaluation fee.
Wait for assessment results.
2: Apply to Provincial Body
Choose the province you want to work in.
Apply to the nursing regulatory body of that province.
Provide your NNAS report.
Meet all licensing requirements.
3: Take Required Exams
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam if applying as a Registered Nurse.
Some provinces may also require a jurisprudence exam.
4: Get Work Permit or Permanent Residence
Through the immigration, refugees and citizenship Canada (IRCC), apply for a work visa.
You may also apply under Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
5: Apply for Jobs
Research on jobs openings from hospital websites and job portals.
Examples include: Job Bank Canada, Indeed Canada, and HealthCare Jobs.
6: Attend Interview
Most interviews are online.
Show proof of nursing knowledge and communication skills.
7: Relocate and Start Work
Once accepted, move to Canada.
Attend orientation and begin work.
Job Portals for Nurses
Some trusted portals for Canadian nursing jobs:
Hospital career pages in each province
Deadlines
Nursing recruitment has no fixed national deadline. Each province sets its own application timeline. Job postings may also have set closing dates. It’s strongly advised that all applicants checks the portal is their chosen province.
Key Tips for Applicants
- Start with NNAS early. The process takes months.
- Take your English or French test before applying.
- Keep all documents ready and scanned.
- Research the province before choosing.
- Apply for permanent residence if possible.
- Be honest in all applications.
- Stay alert for job scams. Only use trusted portals.
Final Note
Canada offers a great chance for foreign nurses. The process takes time but leads to steady work. Prepare your documents, pass your exams, and apply early. With patience and focus, you can secure a nursing job in Canada.