Work in Canada

Becoming an RN

Where can I find out how to obtain a visa to work as a registered nurse in Canada?

Contact the Canadian consulate nearest you for information regarding immigration or visas. It is very likely that an offer of employment will be required.

What are the employment prospects in Canada?

Nursing employment is growing after several years of health-care restructuring and hospital downsizing. RNs with skills and experience in specialty areas (e.g., emergency, critical care and operating room) and those willing to work in smaller or isolated communities are in the most demand. CNA is predicting a continued shortage of nurses for the future.

Where can I obtain information about becoming licensed to practise nursing in Canada?

Unlike many other countries, the registration of nurses does not occur at the national level. RNs are licensed in the province or territory in which they work. You can request a prior learning assessment and application forms from any provincial or territorial regulatory body.

Will I need to write an examination to become licensed to practise in Canada?

Canadian provinces and territories, with the exception of Quebec, require that you write the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination as part of the registration or licensure process. At present, this exam can only be written in Canada on the recommendation of a provincial or territorial nurses association. CNA’s Canadian Registered Nurse Examination Prep Guide will help you prepare for the exam.

Quebec nurses have their own exam. For further information, contact the Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec.

What languages do I need to know to become an RN in Canada?

You require language proficiency to become an RN in Canada. Bilingualism (French and English) is an asset. Candidates must have knowledge of French to practise in Quebec. In New Brunswick, Manitoba and Ontario, candidates must be proficient in either French or English. Employment and nursing education programs for unilingual French speaking nurses are available in Quebec and in certain areas in New Brunswick, Manitoba and Ontario. In these provinces, the Canadian RN exam may be written in either French or English. The other provinces and territories require proficiency in English.

Can I practise midwifery? 

Midwifery is a recognized profession in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec and Nova Scotia. For further information, please refer to the Canadian Association of Midwives.