How to Immigrate to Canada as a Nurse

Canada is currently facing a shortage of qualified nurses, and the federal government has made it a priority to address this issue. This means that if you are a qualified nurse looking to immigrate to Canada, there has never been a better time to do so. Not only is there a high demand for nurses in Canada, but there are also many opportunities for career growth and a better quality of life.

In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to immigrate to Canada as a nurse and start your new life in this beautiful country.

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How to Immigrate to Canada as a Nurse

Since Canada wants to welcome nurses, nurse immigration is relatively easy. Let’s have a closer look at how it works.

Immigration Programs for Nurses

Thankfully there are quite a few programs that allow for registered nurses to immigrate to Canada.

1. Temporary Workers in Healthcare

Canada has a growing demand for healthcare workers, and this demand has led to the creation of immigration programs specifically targeted at healthcare workers. One such program is the Temporary Workers in Healthcare stream, which is aimed at individuals who are already working in Canada as nurses or other healthcare professionals.

To qualify for this program, candidates must be working in one of the listed healthcare occupations and residing in Canada at the time of application. The program is open until the cap is reached, so it is important to apply as soon as possible.

Temporary Workers in the Healthcare stream allow candidates to continue working in their current job while their application is being processed. This means there is no need to worry about finding a new job or disrupting one’s career to apply for immigration.

Additionally, the program offers a pathway to permanent residency for eligible candidates, providing a clear and secure path to long-term residency in Canada.

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2. French-Speaking Temporary Workers in Healthcare

If you are a French-speaking nurse working in Canada, there is a new immigration program that may be of interest to you. The French-Speaking Temporary Workers in Healthcare stream is designed specifically for French-speaking healthcare workers who are already working in Canada, and who have been on the front line of the pandemic or in long-term care homes.

To qualify for this program, you must have at least one year of work experience in an essential occupation, such as nursing, and be proficient in French. There is no cap on the number of applicants who can apply.

One of the main benefits of this program is that it provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible candidates. This means that if you are accepted into the program, you will be able to establish yourself permanently in Canada and enjoy all of the benefits that come with living in this beautiful country.

Another advantage of this program is that it recognizes the important contributions that French-speaking healthcare workers make to the Canadian healthcare system. By offering a dedicated immigration stream for French-speaking healthcare workers, Canada is acknowledging the valuable role that these individuals play in keeping Canadians healthy and safe.

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3. Express Entry

For registered nurses looking to immigrate to Canada, the Express Entry System offers two potential pathways to permanent residency: the Federal Skilled Worker Immigration Program and the Canadian Experience Class.

Under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, applicants must have at least one year of continuous work experience in their field from anywhere in the world within the last ten years. They must also demonstrate language proficiency and score a minimum of 67 out of 100 points on various factors that assess education, language, work experience, and other factors that contribute to their overall suitability for immigration.

The Canadian Experience Class, on the other hand, is geared towards individuals who have already worked in Canada for at least one year in a skilled occupation. This program requires the work experience to be within the last three years, and the experience must be for at least NOC skill level O or A.

To be eligible for both programs, registered nurses must demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French, as this is a critical factor in assessing their suitability for immigration. Applicants may be required to take a language proficiency test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).

The Express Entry system is a competitive program, and only the highest-scoring applicants are selected for permanent residency. However, registered nurses who meet the eligibility requirements and score well on the various factors assessed can benefit from a streamlined and efficient immigration process, making it an attractive option for those looking to establish themselves permanently in Canada.

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4. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is one of the most efficient and effective ways for registered nurses to immigrate to Canada. Each province and territory in Canada has its own unique requirements and criteria for nursing, as well as specific labour needs, making it easier for qualified candidates to move to Canada within months of applying.

To apply for the PNP, registered nurses must first determine which province they wish to settle in and research the requirements for that specific province’s PNP program. These requirements may include education, language proficiency, work experience, and other criteria that are specific to the province’s needs.

Once a registered nurse has determined which province they want to apply for, they must submit their application through the province’s PNP program. If their application is successful, they will be nominated by the province, and their application for permanent residency will be fast-tracked by the federal government.

It’s important to note that the PNP program is highly competitive, and each province has a limited number of spots available. As such, registered nurses must ensure that they meet all the requirements and criteria for their chosen province’s PNP program and provide strong evidence of their skills and qualifications to maximize their chances of being nominated.

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Immigration from Other English-Speaking Countries

If you are a registered nurse who has studied in the UK, USA, or Australia, the process of immigrating to Canada is relatively straightforward. First, you will need to have your educational credentials assessed to ensure they meet Canadian standards. Additionally, international nurses are also required to write and pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and competency in Canadian nursing standards.

Since the educational systems and standards in these three English-speaking countries are very similar to those in Canada, passing this exam should not be too difficult. Once you are deemed qualified to practice as a nurse in Canada, you will need to register with either the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) or the Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR).

Before registering, however, you will need to decide which province you want to work in since you will need to apply to the nursing regulatory body of that province first. After registering, you can begin looking for a job and obtain a work permit.

It’s important to keep in mind that additional screening tools may be used to confirm your qualifications, such as verifying your work experience, asking for character and work references, conducting a criminal check, and other relevant factors.

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Work as a Nurse in Canada

If you are a nurse looking to work in Canada, the good news is that nursing is considered an in-demand job in the country. The National Occupation Classification lists nursing under NOC 3012 for registered nurses and psychiatric nurses, and NOC 3233 for licensed practical nurses. This means that the Canadian government is actively seeking foreign nurses to fill the shortage in the healthcare sector.

Nurses in Canada are also paid fairly well. The starting salary for a nurse in Canada is close to $60,000, with an average salary of $71,875 for those working in the field. However, it is worth noting that in remote communities, the salary can be $100,000 or more.

To work as a nurse in Canada, you must meet the requirements set by the nursing regulatory body of the province you wish to work in. You will also need to register with the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) or the Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR) before you can start practicing as a nurse in the country.

In addition to meeting the educational and registration requirements, you will also need to pass an exam to prove your proficiency in the English or French language. Additional screening tools may also be used to confirm your qualifications, such as work experience, character and work references, and criminal background checks.

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Is it Easy to Immigrate to Canada as a Nurse?

The process of immigrating to Canada as a nurse can be challenging, but it is definitely achievable with the right approach and preparation. One of the main requirements is to prove that you meet the qualifications and standards set by the Canadian nursing regulatory bodies. You will also need to demonstrate your language proficiency in English or French and pass an exam to assess your nursing knowledge and skills.

However, with the high demand for nurses in Canada, there are several immigration programs and pathways specifically designed for foreign-educated nurses. These programs can help expedite the process and provide opportunities to gain permanent residency in Canada. Some of the programs mentioned in this article include the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry, and the Temporary Workers in Healthcare stream.

Finding a nursing job in Canada as an international nurse can also be challenging, but the internet has made it easier to search for job opportunities. It is important to use reputable job boards and tailor your application to the position you are applying for. It is also recommended to network with other nurses and healthcare professionals in Canada to increase your chances of finding a job.

Related: 12 Hotcake Sites To Find Jobs In Canada For 2023

Where to Find Help with Immigration?

If you want to simplify the immigration process and increase your chances of success, consider hiring the services of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). These professionals are well-versed in the various immigration programs and can help you navigate the complexities of the process.

To find an RCIC, you can check the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) website, which provides a list of licensed immigration consultants. It’s important to note that only authorized representatives, such as RCICs, lawyers, or notaries, are legally permitted to assist with Canadian immigration applications.

Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you’re unsure about the process or need help with your application. With Canada’s increasing demand for healthcare workers, including nurses, there’s no better time to take advantage of the opportunities available.

Important: To contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), please visit their website.

Conclusion

Immigrating to Canada as a nurse is a viable option for those seeking a new career path or a fresh start in a new country. With several immigration programs available and a growing demand for healthcare professionals, nurses have a good chance of succeeding in their journey to Canada. By doing thorough research, taking the necessary exams, and applying to the appropriate programs, you can make your dream of working as a nurse in Canada a reality.

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Nurse