Introduction: Nursing in Canada – A High-Demand Career with Global Access
Canada remains one of the top destinations for nurses from around the world in 2025. With its aging population, expanding healthcare needs, and shortage of domestic healthcare workers, Canada has opened more doors than ever for foreign-trained nurses to migrate with full visa sponsorship. Whether you’re a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or a healthcare assistant, opportunities are growing across provinces and territories.
This comprehensive guide explores every detail about relocating to Canada in 2025 as a nurse with visa sponsorship. We’ll cover the job outlook, licensing process, immigration pathways, provincial recruitment programs, salary expectations, top hiring institutions, application tips, and much more.
If you’re looking to start your healthcare career in Canada or transition from another country, this guide is your gateway.
Nursing Job Outlook in Canada 2025
Healthcare is one of the most in-demand sectors in Canada. The country is facing a critical shortage of nurses due to retirements, burnout from COVID-19, and increased healthcare demands. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), Canada will need over 60,000 additional nurses by the end of 2025.
All Canadian provinces, including Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, have launched international recruitment campaigns and partnered with foreign governments and staffing agencies to sponsor foreign-trained nurses.
For more detailed immigration pathways, see 10 Safe Ways to Relocate to Canada in 2025.
Types of Nursing Jobs Available
In 2025, Canadian healthcare employers are actively recruiting the following nursing roles:
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)
- Personal Support Workers (PSWs)
- Healthcare Aides
Each role has its own scope of practice, salary range, and licensing requirements. Some provinces may classify nurses differently, so it’s essential to research the specific qualifications needed by your target province.
Nursing Salaries in Canada (2025)
Canadian nurses are among the best-paid healthcare professionals in the world. Salaries vary based on province, role, experience, and work setting (public vs private hospitals, long-term care homes, etc).
Average Annual Salaries:
- Registered Nurse (RN): CAD $70,000 – $105,000
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): CAD $50,000 – $70,000
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): CAD $95,000 – $130,000
- Personal Support Worker (PSW): CAD $35,000 – $50,000
Rural and remote locations may offer higher pay or bonuses. Some employers even include relocation assistance, accommodation, and additional benefits.
Visa Sponsorship for Nurses
Most foreign nurses move to Canada through employer-sponsored programs or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). In 2025, there are several active visa sponsorship routes:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Allows employers to sponsor skilled nurses for work permits.
- Express Entry System: Nurses qualify under the Federal Skilled Worker Program and are invited to apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces have healthcare-specific nomination streams that offer fast-tracked PR with employer support.
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): For job offers in Eastern Canada with simplified PR pathways.
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): Offers work and PR opportunities in underserved communities.
Learn more: Provincial Nominee Programs explained.
Licensing Requirements for Foreign Nurses
Before working in Canada as a nurse, you must register with the appropriate regulatory body in the province you plan to work in. Key steps include:
- Credential Evaluation: Submit your education to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS).
- English or French Proficiency: Submit IELTS or CELBAN (English) or TEF (French) scores.
- Apply to Regulatory Authority: Each province has its own college (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario).
- Pass Licensing Exams: RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN. LPNs may take different exams depending on the province.
Some provinces like British Columbia and Nova Scotia have streamlined assessments in 2025 for foreign-trained nurses.
Top Employers Hiring Foreign Nurses in 2025
Major hospitals, long-term care homes, and private agencies are actively hiring international nurses with visa sponsorship:
- Ontario Health – Province-wide public health agency
- Nova Scotia Health Authority – Offers rural incentives
- Fraser Health – BC’s largest health authority
- Alberta Health Services – One of the largest recruiters
- Carecor Health Services – Specializes in temp placements
- Revera Inc. – National long-term care provider
Search verified jobs on Job Bank Canada.
How to Apply for Nursing Jobs from Abroad
Follow these steps to increase your chances of success:
- Complete your NNAS registration.
- Tailor your resume to Canadian standards.
- Include a cover letter emphasizing international experience.
- Search job boards and hospital career sites.
- Apply to PNP healthcare streams (especially BC, Ontario, Nova Scotia).
- Be ready for virtual interviews and assessments.
Check our Canadian Resume Writing Tips.
Settlement Services and Support for Foreign Nurses
Upon arrival, many provinces offer settlement support to help you transition:
- Airport pickup and temporary housing
- Free language and communication training
- Job orientation and mentorship programs
- Healthcare registration assistance
Organizations like IRCC-funded services help new immigrants adjust smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I move to Canada as a nurse without a job offer?
Yes, through Express Entry, but having a job offer greatly improves your score.
2. Which province is best for nurses in 2025?
Nova Scotia, Ontario, and British Columbia are aggressively recruiting international nurses with streamlined processes and incentives.
3. Can my family join me in Canada?
Yes. Most visa sponsorship programs allow you to bring your spouse and children.
4. How long does it take to get licensed?
On average, 6–12 months. Some fast-track programs are available in 2025.