Neethus Academy

Apply Today

How to become a registered nurse in Canada from India

Canada is the dream destination for many Indian nurses because of its high healthcare standards, competitive salaries, and excellent quality of life. So if someone asks you about the process involved in working in Canada as a registered nurse from India, you can tell them to check on the eligibility criteria and then get proper registration.

Why Work as a Nurse in Canada?

Many benefits come with becoming a nurse in Canada, including:

  • High salaries and job security.
  • Scope for career advancement and specialization.
  • Superb medical care facilities.
  • Permanent residency under the immigration scheme.

Canada has an increasing need for healthcare professionals. Therefore, Canada is an ideal destination for qualified nurses.

How to become a Registered Nurse in Canada from India

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility to practice as a nurse in Canada would depend upon several eligibility criteria. These usually are:

  • Beholding a recognized nursing degree or diploma from India
  • Be able to speak English or French, according to the province
  • Pass relevant exams and evaluations




  1. Select the Province or Territory

Canada has different nursing regulatory bodies for the different provinces and territories. These include:

Ontario: College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)

British Columbia: British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)

Alberta: College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)

Research the specifics of the requirements for the province you wish to work in because they are likely to differ.

  1. Register with the NNAS

The National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) assesses the credentials of IEN. The process involved is as follows:

  • Creating your account on the NNAS website,
  • Submission of academic transcripts and professional references besides employment verification and
  • The payment fee for assessment from NNAS is estimated at CAD 650).

After assessing your credentials, you will be provided with an NNAS advisory report that is vital for your provincial registration.



  1. Language Proficiency

You should prove proficiency in English or French if these are not your first languages by demonstrating it in IELTS Academic, for instance, minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0; TOEFL iBT, minimum score of 83. You must fulfill the language requirements of the province where you wish to register.

 

  1. Register with the Provincial Regulatory Body

After your NNAS report is complete, apply for registration with the nursing regulatory body of the province you have chosen. You may be required to complete:

Jurisprudence Exam: Tests your knowledge of Canadian nursing laws and ethics.

Criminal Background Check: Ensures you’re eligible to work with vulnerable populations.

  1. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses is the final step to becoming a registered nurse in Canada. It tests your nursing knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Tips for NCLEX-RN Preparation

    • Study the NCLEX-RN test plan.
    • Take mock exams to identify weak areas.
    • Enroll in preparatory courses, if needed.

    Gain Work Authorization

    After passing the NCLEX-RN and completing registration, you will need a valid work permit. You can explore immigration pathways like:

    Express Entry Program: Apply as a skilled worker through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).

    Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Target specific provinces with nursing shortages.

    Find a Nursing Job in Canada

    You can look for nursing jobs in Canada by:

    • Applying to healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care homes.
    • Using online platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn.
    • Networking with professionals in Canadian nursing associations.

    Permanent Residency (PR)

    Many nurses opt for permanent residency to secure long-term benefits. Once you’re employed, gaining PR becomes easier through programs like Express Entry or PNP.

Challenges Faced by Indian Nurses and How to Overcome Them

Credential Verification Delays: Start your NNAS process early to avoid delays.

Cultural Adjustment: Familiarize yourself with Canadian workplace norms.

Exam Preparation: Take online courses and practice tests to prepare for the NCLEX-RN.

Language barriers: Spend ample time talking English or French.



Cost Breakdown of Becoming a Nurse in Canada

There are so many costs involved in a journey to becoming a registered nurse in Canada. Read on to get an actual breakdown:

NNAS Application Fee: The National Nursing Assessment Service charges approximately CAD 650 for credential evaluation. The fee covers the assessment of your degree, employment, and other documents submitted in support.

Language Test (IELTS/TOEFL): You should have English or French proficiency. Language test charges are between $250 to CAD 300 according to the testing organization.

NCLEX-RN Exam Fee: Registration requires sitting for the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-RN exam fee is USD 200. However, if you need to have a second shot at the exam, there are extra fees.

Provincial Registry Fee: These depend on the different provincial regulating bodies with fees running from 300 CAD to 500 CAD. Generally, these registration fees cover criminal background checks and jurisprudence exams.

Additional expenses to consider include the cost of preparatory courses for the NCLEX-RN, travel expenses for exams or interviews, and fees for obtaining a work permit or visa. Altogether, you should prepare for an investment of approximately $2,000–CAD 3,000, depending on your circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a registered nurse in Canada from India is not only the achievement of one’s career goals but also opening the door to a happy and prosperous future. Despite the time and effort required along with financial investments, the payoff is substantial, professionally and personally.

Completion of the NNAS assessment, language proficiency tests, and NCLEX-RN exam, you will have prepared yourself for joining Canada’s elite healthcare system. Take the first step in building your future as a nurse in Canada and start making your dreams come true.

Related Blogs

  • All Posts
  • OET
Load More

End of Content.

Course Enquiry

Error: Contact form not found.

Latest Posts

  • All Posts
  • CBT
  • DHA
  • French
  • GENERAL
  • German
  • IELTS
  • IQN NEW ZEALAND
  • MOH
  • NCLEX-RN
  • NHRA
  • OET
  • OSCE
  • PROMETRIC
  • PTE
  • TOEFL
    •   Back
    • OET FOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
    • OET FOR PHARMACIST
    • OET FOR DOCTORS

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years will it take to become a registered nurse in Canada if I'm from India?

It takes anywhere from 1–2 years depending upon how fast you are at each step such as credential assessment, language testing, and exam preparation. You can also be held up by an additional document verification or possibly retaking an exam.

Am I permitted to work in Canada while my registration is pending?

Yes. It is possible to gain employment in the healthcare field while waiting for full registration in a nursing position; however, only jobs specific to nursing require a practicing license issued by the provincial regulatory body.

Must I pass the NCLEX-RN test?

Yes. To be a registered nurse within Canada, one must pass the NCLEX-RN. This evaluation tests your nursing knowledge and ensures you meet all standards of Canadian health.

Scroll to Top
Call Now Button