Canada’s healthcare system is facing a critical shortage of nurses, creating urgent demand for qualified healthcare professionals. With the shortage expected to continue for years, the country is actively recruiting internationally trained nurses by offering sponsored work visas. This presents a golden opportunity for foreign nurses to build stable careers in Canada while contributing to the well-being of its communities.
If you are a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN), Canada offers diverse job openings in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers. This guide provides comprehensive details on nursing jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship 2025, including wages, benefits, eligibility, and application steps.
Why Canada is Sponsoring International Nurses
- Severe Nursing Shortage – Aging population and retirement of existing staff have left a large gap.
- High Demand Across Provinces – Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia are hiring the most.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency – Many visa sponsorship programs allow transition to PR.
- Attractive Salaries & Benefits – Nurses earn some of the highest healthcare wages globally.
- Global Opportunities – Nurses from Asia, Africa, and Latin America are highly encouraged to apply.
Job Details
- Job Title: Licensed Nurse / Registered Nurse / Practical Nurse
- Job Location: Across Canada (Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, etc.)
- Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent & Contract roles
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes – Work Permit & LMIA support available
- Average Salary: CAD $38 – $55 per hour (approx. CAD $70,000 – $110,000 annually)
- Accommodation: Not usually provided, but relocation assistance available
- Working Hours: Day shifts, evening shifts, and weekend rotations depending on facility
- Contract Duration: Permanent and renewable contracts available
Responsibilities of Nurses in Canada
Depending on your role, responsibilities may include:
- Conduct routine health assessments and monitor patient conditions.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate care plans for residents.
- Maintain detailed patient records including vitals, medication, and referrals.
- Provide restorative, rehabilitative, and palliative care as required.
- Supervise and guide healthcare assistants and support staff.
- Educate patients and families on health management and treatments.
- Ensure compliance with established healthcare standards and protocols.
- Participate in staff training, orientation, and ongoing professional development.
Salary Expectations
The average nursing salary in Canada depends on the province and level of experience:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): CAD $42 – $55/hour
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): CAD $28 – $35/hour
- Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs): CAD $38 – $50/hour
👉 For example, in Ontario, the offered range for sponsored nurses is CAD $55.49 – $62.65 per hour, making nursing one of the most lucrative healthcare careers.
Related: Construction Jobs in Singapore with Visa Sponsorship
Benefits of Nursing Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
- Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Assistance provided by employers.
- Competitive salaries among the highest in the world for nurses.
- Health & Dental Insurance included in employee benefits.
- Pension plans (401k equivalent) for long-term financial security.
- Paid leave, vacation, and sick days.
- Ongoing training & career development opportunities.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) for foreign workers.
Eligibility Criteria for Nurses in Canada (2025)
To work as a nurse in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- Education – Nursing diploma or degree from a recognized institution.
- Licensing –
- Apply through NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service) to evaluate credentials.
- Register with the provincial regulatory body (e.g., CNO in Ontario, BCCNM in British Columbia).
- Experience – Minimum 1–2 years of clinical nursing experience preferred.
- Language Proficiency – IELTS or CELBAN test results in English (or French in Quebec).
- Health & Character – Medical examination and clean background check.
- Visa Requirements – Must meet Canadian immigration work permit criteria.
Pathways for Nurses to Work in Canada
There are multiple ways for foreign-trained nurses to enter Canada:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Employers apply for LMIA to hire international nurses.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Certain provinces nominate nurses for permanent residency.
- Atlantic Immigration Program: Open for nurses willing to work in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, or PEI.
- Express Entry System: Skilled nurses can qualify for Federal Skilled Worker stream.
Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for Nurses
Hospitals, clinics, and community health facilities actively hire foreign nurses, such as:
- Espanola & Area Family Health Team (Ontario): Offers contracts of 18 months or longer, renewable with sponsorship.
- Regional Health Authorities in British Columbia & Manitoba.
- Long-term Care Facilities across Alberta and Saskatchewan.
- Private Healthcare Groups partnering with the Canadian government.
How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
- Credential Assessment – Apply to NNAS for verification of your nursing qualifications.
- Prepare Documents – Updated CV, nursing degree/diploma, transcripts, references, IELTS/CELBAN score.
- Job Search – Use portals like Job Bank Canada, Indeed, Workopolis, LinkedIn.
- Apply Directly – Submit applications to hospitals, clinics, and care facilities.
- Interview Process – Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed online.
- Visa Application – Once hired, your employer will sponsor your Canadian work visa.
FAQs
1. Can newly graduated nurses apply?
Yes, entry-level roles are available, but preference is given to candidates with 1–2 years of experience.
2. Do I need IELTS for nursing jobs in Canada?
Yes, English proficiency is required. IELTS Academic or CELBAN are commonly accepted.
3. Are foreign nurses eligible for permanent residency?
Yes, most visa sponsorships lead to PR pathways through PNP or Express Entry.
4. What is the age limit for applying?
Generally, candidates between 22–45 years are preferred.
5. Do employers provide free accommodation?
Not always, but relocation assistance and settlement support are often provided.
Final Thoughts
With Canada facing a long-term shortage of healthcare professionals, 2025 is the perfect time for foreign-trained nurses to apply for jobs with visa sponsorship. These roles not only offer competitive salaries and benefits but also provide a pathway to permanent residency, making Canada one of the most attractive destinations for nurses worldwide.
Whether you are a Registered Nurse, LPN, or RPN, thousands of opportunities are open across Canadian provinces. If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, apply today and begin your journey in one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems.