Canada is facing a critical shortage of healthcare workers, a challenge exacerbated by increasing demand and an aging population. In response, the Canadian government has introduced various immigration pathways designed to attract skilled healthcare professionals from around the world.
Express Entry – Category-Based Draws
Introduced in June 2023, Express Entry category-based draws target candidates with specific recent work experience and skill proficiencies, including healthcare professionals. These draws facilitate the fast-tracking of permanent residency applications for individuals who meet the criteria set forth by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Express Entry – Standard Draws
Standard Express Entry draws are open to all eligible candidates across various professions, not limited to healthcare. Candidates under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs play a crucial role in Canada’s immigration strategy by allowing provinces and territories to nominate candidates who can fill local labour market gaps. Several PNPs have specific streams tailored for healthcare professionals:
- Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream
- British Columbia’s Healthcare Professional category under Skills Immigration and Express Entry pathways
- Saskatchewan’s International Health Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) pool for nurses
- Nova Scotia’s Labour Market Priorities Stream
- New Brunswick’s Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program
These streams provide additional avenues for healthcare professionals to secure nomination and expedite their immigration process.
Accreditation Process for Healthcare Professionals
While immigrating to Canada is a significant first step, foreign healthcare professionals must obtain accreditation or licensing to practice in their chosen province or territory. The accreditation process varies by region and involves several steps:
- Contacting Provincial Regulatory Bodies: Upon arrival in Canada, healthcare professionals should contact the appropriate regulatory body in their desired province. Each province has its own licensing requirements and regulatory bodies.
- National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS): In most cases, nurses must undergo an assessment through NNAS to verify their credentials against Canadian standards. This assessment is crucial and provides an Advisory Form necessary for subsequent provincial licensing applications.
- Application to Provincial Regulatory Body: Once the NNAS assessment is completed and fees are paid, applicants must apply to the provincial regulatory body of the province where they intend to practice. Additional educational requirements specific to the province may need to be fulfilled.
- Regional Variances: It’s important to note that Quebec and Canada’s three territories have their own assessment methods and regulatory frameworks distinct from those used in other provinces.
Navigating Canada’s immigration system as a healthcare professional requires a thorough understanding of the available pathways and accreditation processes. By leveraging initiatives like Express Entry category-based draws and PNPs, healthcare professionals can expedite their journey to permanent residency and contribute to Canada’s healthcare system. For personalized guidance and support throughout your immigration journey, book a consultation.