Are you a nurse looking to relocate to Canada? Can your international work experience as a nurse be applied to the Canadian healthcare workforce?
Working as a nurse or another healthcare professional in Canada is a great opportunity, and plenty of jobs are available.
Learn more about the plenty of opportunities available to immigrate to Canada as a nurse through provincial nominee programs.
Does Canada Have a Demand for Nurses?
Canada has a growing need for more healthcare workers due to an aging and growing Canadian population and other factors that arose before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada already had a need for healthcare professionals before the pandemic; following it, the need is as prevalent as ever.
Working as a nurse in Canada means you are addressing a constant labour need. This would give you job security in a well-paying role.
Provincial Nominee Programs for Nurses
To determine which immigration programs you are eligible for, you’ll need to know the NOC codes and skill levels that correspond with the job you want to work in.
The code for registered nurses and psychiatric nurses is NOC 3021, with NOC skill level A.
Licensed practical nurses fall under code NOC 3233 and NOC skill level B.
In addition to provincial nominee programs, internationally trained nurses can also qualify for immigration through the Express Entry immigration system.
Below are some of the provinces with the highest demand for nurses in Canada. Explore provincial nominee programs to find the best stream for you and your journey toward working as a nurse in Canada.
Ontario
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is a great option for internationally trained nurses. Ontario has a high population and is always in need of more nurses.
Ontario added NOC 3413 to accommodate more nurses, such as nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates.
You can explore the Human Capital Priorities Stream, targeted at skilled workers.
British Columbia
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) will help nurses find jobs in BC.
Nurses looking to work in British Columbia can apply through the Skilled Immigration stream under the Healthcare Professional category.