Loading...
NOC 31301TEER 1Healthcare
Registered Nurse Immigration to Canada
Complete pathway guide for registered nurses moving to Canada. Explore Express Entry, provincial programs, requirements, and job prospects.
NOC Code
31301
TEER Category
TEER 1
Median Salary
$77,000
Very High Demand
Overview
Registered Nurse Pathway to Canada
Canada faces a critical shortage of registered nurses across all provinces. With an aging population and expanding healthcare infrastructure, RNs are among the most in-demand professionals in Canada.
Nurses can benefit from category-based Express Entry draws for healthcare workers, which have significantly lower CRS cut-offs. Most provinces have dedicated PNP streams for nurses with job offers.
Canadian nursing licensure is required to practice. The process involves credential assessment by NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service) and provincial registration with your nursing regulatory body.
Expert Immigration Support
Get personalized guidance from RCIC-licensed consultants specializing in healthcare worker immigration.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreLearn About Express EntryRCIC License: R515110
Immigration Pathways
Eligible Programs for Registered Nurses
Multiple pathways available depending on your qualifications and circumstances.
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)
Fast-track PR for nurses with 1+ years experience and strong language scores. Healthcare category draws offer lower CRS requirements.
Provincial Nominee Program
Nearly every province has streams for nurses. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot
Rural communities desperately need nurses. RNIP offers pathways with lower requirements and strong community support.
Requirements
What You Need to Qualify
Key requirements for registered nurse immigration to Canada.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) or equivalent. Diploma-prepared nurses accepted in some provinces.
Experience
Minimum 1 year full-time nursing experience in last 3 years. ICU, ER, OR experience highly valued.
Language
CLB 7 minimum (IELTS 6.0 overall). Higher scores significantly improve CRS and job prospects.
Licensing
NNAS assessment required ($650 CAD). Provincial registration varies by province ($500-1500).
Express Entry
Express Entry for Registered Nurses
Healthcare category draws have CRS cut-offs 50-100 points lower than general draws. Nurses with CLB 9+ and 3+ years experience typically score 450+.
Category-Based Draws
Registered Nurses are eligible for category-based Express Entry draws, which typically have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws. This significantly improves your chances of receiving an ITA.
Typical CRS Range
400-470
Processing Time
6 months
Employment Outlook
Job Market & Settlement
What to expect when you arrive in Canada as a registered nurse.
Time to Employment
3-6 months
Average time to secure first job in Canada
Top Cities for Registered Nurses:
TorontoVancouverCalgaryMontrealWinnipeg
Job Search Tips
Start NNAS assessment early (6-12 months). Network with provincial nursing associations. Consider rural placements for faster licensing. Many hospitals offer bridging programs for international nurses.
Top Employer Types
Public health authorities
Large hospital networks
Long-term care facilities
Community health centers
Home care agencies
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about registered nurse immigration to Canada
Do I need Canadian nursing experience to immigrate?
No, Canadian experience is not required. However, you must have at least 1 year of recent nursing experience from anywhere in the world. Canadian experience helps with licensing and job search but is not mandatory for immigration.
How long does NNAS assessment take?
NNAS assessment typically takes 4-6 months. You can start this process before immigrating. It's recommended to begin NNAS as soon as you decide to pursue Canadian immigration.
Can LPNs immigrate to Canada?
Yes, Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101) are also eligible for immigration through Express Entry and PNPs, though they fall under TEER 2. LPNs are in high demand, especially in long-term care and community health.
Which provinces have the fastest nursing licensing?
Alberta and Manitoba typically have faster licensing processes (2-4 months after arrival). Ontario and BC can take 6-12 months. Consider starting in a faster province and transferring later if desired.
What is the salary range for nurses in Canada?
Entry-level RNs start at $60,000-70,000. Experienced nurses earn $75,000-95,000. Nurse practitioners can earn $95,000-120,000. Salaries vary by province, with BC and Ontario typically paying highest.
Ready to Immigrate as a Registered Nurse?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in healthcare worker immigration. Book a consultation to discuss your pathway to Canadian permanent residence.