Canada is one of the best places for nurses looking for career growth, a high salary, and a better quality of life. The country has a growing demand for healthcare professionals, making it an attractive destination for nurses worldwide.
This guide will explain, in simple terms, how to apply for a work visa for nurses in Canada—from checking if you qualify to getting your nursing license and settling in Canada.
Why Canada is a Great Place for Nurses
Canada’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world. Here’s why nurses love working here:
✔ High Demand – Canada needs more nurses due to its ageing population.
✔ Competitive Salary – Nurses earn well, with opportunities for growth.
✔ Work-Life Balance – Better working hours and job security.
✔ Pathway to Permanent Residency – Many immigration programs allow nurses to stay in Canada permanently.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Work Visa for Nurses in Canada
1. Check If You Qualify
Nurses need to match their job role with Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): NOC 31300
- Registered Psychiatric Nurses: NOC 31301
- Nurse Practitioners: NOC 31302
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): NOC 32101
You should also check immigration programs like:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program – FSWP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (specific provinces invite nurses to apply)
2. Prove Your English or French Skills
To work in Canada, you must pass a language test. The most common test is IELTS (English) or TEF (French).
For IELTS, nurses usually need:
✔ Speaking: 6.0
✔ Listening: 6.0 – 7.0
✔ Reading: 6.0
✔ Writing: 6.0
3. Get Your Education Verified
Your nursing degree must be equal to Canadian standards. You’ll need to apply for an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) through authorized organizations.
4. Create an Express Entry Profile
The Express Entry System ranks applicants based on:
✔ Age
✔ Education
✔ Work Experience
✔ Language Skills
A higher ranking improves your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
5. Submit Documents and Wait for Approval
Once you receive an ITA, submit:
- Educational certificates
- Work experience proof
- IELTS score
- Police clearance & medical tests
After the Canadian immigration office reviews your application, you may receive your work visa for nurses in Canada!
6. Get Your Nursing License in Canada
Each province in Canada has a different nursing regulatory body. To start working, you need to register and pass a licensing exam. For example:
✔ Ontario: College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
✔ British Columbia: British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
✔ Alberta: College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)
Best Provinces in Canada for Nurses
Certain provinces make it easier for nurses to immigrate and settle. Some of the best options include:
✔ British Columbia (BC PNP) – Offers a Healthcare Professional Stream for nurses, making the process faster.
✔ Saskatchewan – Has an International Health Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) pool, allowing nurses with experience to apply easily.
✔ Nova Scotia – Invites nurses through the Labour Market Priorities Stream, adding extra points to your application.
✔ New Brunswick – Runs the Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program, helping foreign nurses integrate quickly.
❓ How long does it take to get a nursing work visa for Canada?
✔ It depends on the immigration program. Express Entry can take 6-12 months, while some PNPs may take longer.
❓ Do I need work experience to apply?
✔ Yes. Most programs require at least one year of work experience as a nurse.
❓ Can I apply without IELTS?
✔ No. You must prove your English or French skills through a valid test.
❓ Can my family move with me?
✔ Yes! Many immigration programs allow spouses and children to come along.
❓ How much do nurses earn in Canada?
✔ On average, Registered Nurses (RNs) earn CAD 70,000 – 100,000 per year depending on the province.
Start Your Journey with Ask Kubeir!
At Ask Kubeir, we help nurses like you make your dream of working in Canada come true. Our team provides expert guidance on:
✔ Choosing the right immigration program
✔ Preparing your application
✔ Increasing your chances of getting selected
✔ Securing a job in Canada
Let’s make your Canadian nursing career a reality!
📞 Call us: 04 260 7837
📲 WhatsApp: wa.me/971529693030
🌐 Website: www.askkubeir.ae
📍 Office No. 45, 9th Floor, Conrad Tower, WTC, Dubai
