Canada’s healthcare sector is actively seeking skilled nurses to address its growing demands. Recent immigration initiatives, such as the Category-Based Express Entry Draws and the Pre-Arrival Supports and Services (PASS) Program, have been introduced to streamline the immigration process for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses.
Category-Based Express Entry Draws for Healthcare Professionals
The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers to gain permanent residency. In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) emphasized specific sectors, including healthcare, to meet the nation’s economic and social needs. This targeted approach ensures that professionals with expertise in critical areas, such as nursing, are prioritized.
Nurses fall under specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes, which are essential when determining eligibility for immigration programs:
- Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses: NOC 31301
- Licensed Practical Nurses: NOC 32101
- Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates: NOC 33102
Candidates with experience in these NOC codes are given priority in the Express Entry draws, reflecting Canada’s commitment to bolstering its healthcare workforce.
The PASS Program: Supporting Internationally Educated Nurses
To further assist internationally educated nurses (IENs) in their transition to Canada, the PASS Program offers comprehensive pre-arrival services. Funded by the Government of Canada, PASS provides:
- Online Webinars and Courses: These sessions offer insights into the Canadian healthcare system, licensing procedures, and workplace culture.
- Mentorship Opportunities: IENs can connect with experienced Canadian nurses for guidance and support.
- Personalized Employment Information: Tailored resources help nurses navigate the job market effectively.
Participation in PASS is free for eligible IENs who have graduated from a recognized nursing program and have received immigration approval from IRCC.
Steps to Immigrate to Canada as a Nurse
- Determine Eligibility: Identify your NOC code to ensure it aligns with the targeted healthcare professions.
- Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your profile to enter the Express Entry pool.
- Engage with the PASS Program: Enroll in PASS to receive tailored support and resources before arriving in Canada.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected, you’ll receive an ITA for permanent residency.
- Complete the Immigration Process: Submit all necessary documents and undergo medical and security checks.
By leveraging these targeted immigration pathways and support programs, internationally educated nurses can seamlessly integrate into Canada’s healthcare system, contributing their skills and expertise to communities nationwide.
For personalized guidance on immigrating to Canada as a nurse, we recommend consulting our legal experts at Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. Our team is dedicated to assisting you through every step of the process. Please contact us at +1 905-203-2266 or email info@visaserve.com.
