If you are a foreign-trained nurse looking to build a rewarding career abroad, Canada stands out as one of the best destinations. The country offers thousands of registered nurse jobs in Canada for foreigners, with competitive salaries, permanent residency pathways, and work visa sponsorships.
This detailed guide explains everything about Canada nurse jobs for international nurses—from eligibility and visa options to salary, demand, and application steps. Whether you’re searching for international nursing jobs in Canada or exploring nurses’ opportunities in Canada, you’ll find everything you need to begin your journey.
Quick Overview: Canada Nurse Jobs for Foreigners
| Category | Details (2025 Update) |
| Average Salary | CAD $70,000 – $100,000+ annually |
| Job Title | Registered Nurse (RN) |
| Work Visa Options | Employer-Sponsored Work Permit, Express Entry, PNP |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent |
| Language Test | IELTS/CELBAN (English) or TEF (French) |
| Regulatory Body | National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) + Provincial Nursing Colleges |
| In-demand Provinces | Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia |
| Visa Sponsorship | Available through hospitals and healthcare employers |
Why Canada Is the Best Destination for International Nurses
Canada’s healthcare system continues to expand, driving up demand for qualified registered nurses. The nursing job in Canada for foreign nurses has grown steadily, making Canada nurse jobs for international nurses a viable career route.
The Canadian government predicts a persistent shortage of healthcare workers through 2030, which translates to massive opportunities in Canada. Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia regularly recruit from overseas to fill RN positions.
Why choose Canada?
- Competitive salaries and safe working conditions
- Work visa and permanent residency options
- Global recognition for healthcare experience
- High standard of living and multicultural environment
Overview of Registered Nurse Jobs in Canada
A registered nurse (RN) in Canada provides essential healthcare services in hospitals, clinics, and community centers. As part of registered nurse jobs in Canada, responsibilities include assessing patients, administering medication, assisting doctors, and supervising junior staff.
The Canada RN jobs market is diverse, covering:
- Hospitals and surgical centers
- Long-term care and nursing homes
- Home health and community care
- Remote area healthcare facilities
According to the latest data, RN jobs in Canada pay between CAD $33–$48 per hour, depending on your province and level of experience.
Can Foreigners Work as Nurses in Canada?
Absolutely. Canada nurse jobs for foreigners are open to qualified professionals who meet the licensing and immigration requirements. The process involves verifying your credentials, applying for registration, and securing a work permit or permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
- A valid nursing qualification from an accredited institution
- Proof of English or French proficiency (IELTS/CELBAN/TEF)
- Registration with the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS)
- Nursing licence from a provincial regulatory body
Once your credentials are approved, you’ll be eligible to apply for international nursing jobs Canada across different provinces.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Registered Nurse Jobs in Canada
Credential Assessment via NNAS
Your first step is to submit your academic transcripts and professional documents to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). They will evaluate if your qualifications meet Canadian standards.
Apply for Provincial Nursing Registration
After your NNAS report, you’ll apply to a provincial body—such as:
- College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
- British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
- College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)
You may need to complete a bridging program or pass the NCLEX–RN exam, depending on the province.
Secure a Job Offer
Once your registration is underway, search for nursing opportunities in Canada through:
- Job Bank Canada
- Health Match BC
- Indeed Canada
- Recruitment agencies that specialize in Canadian RN jobs
Look for listings that specifically mention “visa sponsorship” or “international nurse recruitment.”
Apply for a Work Visa or Permanent Residency
After receiving a job offer, you can apply for:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit (with LMIA support)
- Express Entry Program (for permanent residency)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is designed for healthcare workers
Visa Options for Foreign Nurses Moving to Canada
Securing a job is one part; obtaining the legal right to work in Canada is another. Here are the most relevant immigration/visa pathways for foreign RNs.
Work Visa Pathways for Registered Nurses in Canada
- Employer-specific work permit: If you receive a valid job offer from a Canadian employer and the employer obtains a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (in many cases), you can apply for a work permit.
- Open work permit (in some cases): Spouses of skilled workers or some provincial streams may allow open work permits.
- Permanent residency (PR) through economic class immigration: Many RNs aim for PR instead of just temporary work. Two main streams are:
- Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker Program: For skilled workers who meet points criteria (education, experience, age, language). Being a licensed RN improves your profile.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Many provinces have streams that specifically target healthcare professionals including RNs; obtaining a provincial nomination gives you extra points and improves your chances for PR.
How Visa Sponsorship Works for Foreign Nurses
- Once you secure a job offer, the employer may support your work permit application (and sometimes PR).
- You’ll need to ensure your job offer meets the designation (skilled occupation category — RN falls under NOC 31301 in many provinces).
- After working in Canada, many nurses apply for PR via Express Entry (if eligible) or via PNP streams. Having Canadian work experience boosts your points significantly.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) That Sponsor Registered Nurses
Provinces with acute nursing shortages actively recruit internationally-educated nurses: e.g., British Columbia, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Manitoba and others. These PNP streams often list “Registered Nurse” as an eligible occupation. For example, “Top Canada Jobs for Foreigners in 2025” lists RN as among the highest in demand.
Top Hospitals and Employers Hiring International Nurses
Here are some examples of Canadian healthcare institutions offering nurses’ opportunities in Canada and Canada RN jobs for foreigners:
- Toronto General Hospital (Ontario)
- Vancouver Coastal Health (British Columbia)
- Alberta Health Services (AHS)
- Nova Scotia Health Authority
- Saskatchewan Health Authority
Many of these institutions collaborate with the federal government to recruit international nursing job seekers directly from overseas.
Highest Paying Provinces for Registered Nurses
| Province | Average Annual Salary (CAD) | Notes |
| Alberta | $90,000 – $110,000 | High demand and rural incentives |
| British Columbia | $80,000 – $95,000 | Competitive pay with strong union benefits |
| Ontario | $75,000 – $100,000 | Large healthcare system and urban jobs |
| Nova Scotia | $70,000 – $85,000 | Fast-track recruitment for foreigners |
| Manitoba | $68,000 – $90,000 | Rural programs offer relocation bonuses |
These figures make registered nurse jobs in Canada among the most rewarding healthcare roles globally.
In-Demand Nursing Specializations in Canada
The nursing opportunity in Canada is especially strong for specialized roles, including:
- Critical Care and ICU Nursing
- Pediatric and Neonatal Nursing
- Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing
- Geriatric and Long-Term Care Nursing
- Community and Public Health Nursing
Specialized experience increases your chances of landing top Canada nurse jobs for international nurses with better salary offers.
Benefits of Working as a Nurse in Canada
- Attractive Salary Packages – Competitive pay and overtime options
- Permanent Residency Options – Clear immigration pathways
- Family Sponsorship – Bring your dependents along
- High Job Security – Shortages across most provinces
- Career Growth – Opportunities for postgraduate nursing and specializations
Whether you’re looking for Canada RN jobs or entry-level nursing work, the healthcare system supports long-term career advancement.
Challenges You May Face
While there are many nursing opportunities in Canada, there are some challenges:
- The licensing process can take several months
- Adapting to Canadian healthcare protocols
- Cost of living in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver
- Need for strong English or French communication
However, with persistence and planning, these challenges can be overcome.
FAQs
How much does a registered nurse earn in Canada?
Most registered nurse jobs in Canada pay between CAD $70,000–$100,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
Can international nurses work in Canada?
Yes. There are several Canadian nurse jobs for international nurses, and many hospitals provide visa sponsorship to eligible candidates.
What is the process to become an RN in Canada?
You must pass the NNAS assessment, register with a provincial nursing body, and meet licensing requirements before applying for RN jobs in Canada.
Which province offers the best nursing opportunity in Canada?
Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario currently lead with the most nurse opportunities in Canada.
Can I get a visa sponsorship for a nursing job in Canada?
Yes, many healthcare employers and PNP programs provide visa sponsorship for nursing jobs in Canada for foreigners.
CHECK THESE OUT:
Caregiver Jobs With Visa Sponsorship in UK
Caregiver Job With Visa Sponsorship
WAAW Foundation Scholarship 2025 for African Female Students ($500 Award)
2026 Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships for International Students in Hungary | Fully Funded
