Canada is experiencing an unprecedented healthcare staffing crisis, and Registered Nurse Canada positions have become some of the most in-demand jobs across the country. With an aging population, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and thousands of nurses retiring annually, Canadian provinces are aggressively recruiting international nurses to fill critical gaps.
From Toronto’s world-class hospitals to Alberta’s high-paying healthcare systems, Registered Nurse Canada opportunities now come with salaries reaching up to $95,000 per year, comprehensive benefits packages, and fast-tracked immigration pathways through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Consequently, if you’re a qualified nurse seeking stability, competitive pay, and a clear route to permanent residency, Canada is actively welcoming you.
This guide breaks down the top cities that hire registered nurses, salary expectations by province, PNP pathways that can get you permanent residency in as little as 6–12 months, and exactly how to apply for these life-changing opportunities.
Why Canada Needs Registered Nurses in 2025
A confluence of factors has created a wealth of opportunities for international nurses.
- Critical Shortage: Canada faces a shortfall of over 117,600 nurses by 2030, according to the Canadian Nurses Association.
- Aging Population: Additionally, with 18% of Canadians now over 65, demand for healthcare services is surging.
- Retirement Wave: Meanwhile, thousands of experienced nurses are leaving the workforce annually, creating immediate vacancies.
- Universal Healthcare Expansion: Furthermore, provincial governments are investing billions into healthcare infrastructure, requiring more staff at all levels.
As a result, Canadian provinces are offering competitive salaries and providing immigration support, licensing assistance, and relocation packages to attract qualified Registered Nurse Canada candidates from around the world.
Top Canadian Cities Hiring Registered Nurses
Below is a breakdown of the highest-paying cities for Registered Nurse Canada positions, along with average salaries, top employers, and PNP eligibility.
| City/Province | Average RN Salary (CAD) | Top Employers | PNP Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto, Ontario | $70,000–$90,000 | Toronto General Hospital, Sunnybrook Health, Mount Sinai | Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) |
| Vancouver, British Columbia | $72,000–$95,000 | Vancouver General Hospital, BC Children’s Hospital, St. Paul’s | BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) |
| Calgary, Alberta | $75,000–$95,000 | Foothills Medical Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Rockyview General | Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) |
| Montreal, Quebec | $65,000–$82,000 | McGill University Health Centre, Jewish General Hospital, CHU Sainte-Justine | Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) |
| Edmonton, Alberta | $74,000–$92,000 | Royal Alexandra Hospital, University of Alberta Hospital, Grey Nuns | Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) |
| Ottawa, Ontario | $68,000–$88,000 | The Ottawa Hospital, CHEO, Queensway Carleton | Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) |
| Winnipeg, Manitoba | $66,000–$85,000 | Health Sciences Centre, St. Boniface Hospital, Children’s Hospital | Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) |
| Halifax, Nova Scotia | $64,000–$80,000 | QEII Health Sciences Centre, IWK Health Centre | Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) |
Registered Nurse Canada: City-by-City Breakdown
1. Vancouver, British Columbia ($72,000–$95,000)
British Columbia consistently ranks as one of the highest-paying provinces for Registered Nurse Canada professionals. Moreover, Vancouver’s healthcare system is anchored by world-renowned institutions like Vancouver General Hospital and BC Children’s Hospital, both of which actively recruit internationally educated nurses.
Why Vancouver?
- First and foremost, top-tier salaries with premiums for specialty areas (ICU, Emergency, Operating Room)
- Additionally, strong union support through the BC Nurses’ Union
- Furthermore, BC PNP Healthcare stream offers priority processing for nurses
- Finally, multicultural environments with large immigrant communities
BC PNP Fast-Track: Nurses with valid job offers can apply through the BC PNP Healthcare Professional category, receiving priority processing with invitations issued within weeks.
2. Calgary & Edmonton, Alberta ($74,000 – $95,000)
Alberta offers some of the highest registered nurse salaries in the country, with no provincial sales tax and a lower cost of living compared to Vancouver or Toronto. Similarly, cities like Calgary and Edmonton have massive healthcare networks serving growing populations.
Sample Employers:
- Alberta Health Services (AHS)—the province’s integrated healthcare system
- Foothills Medical Centre (Calgary)
- University of Alberta Hospital (Edmonton)
Why Alberta?
- Notably, highest base salaries for RNs in Canada
- In addition, lower cost of living equals higher purchasing power
- Moreover, comprehensive benefits including pension plans
- Finally, fast-tracked immigration through AAIP
AAIP Fast-Track: The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program has a dedicated healthcare pathway for nurses. Therefore, with a valid job offer, you can receive a provincial nomination in as little as two to three months.
3. Toronto, Ontario ($70,000 – $90,000)
As Canada’s largest city and healthcare hub, Toronto offers unparalleled opportunities for career advancement. In fact, the city is home to some of North America’s top hospitals, research centers, and specialty care facilities.
Major Employers:
- University Health Network (Toronto General, Princess Margaret)
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- SickKids Hospital
- Mount Sinai Hospital
Why Toronto?
- Primarily, access to cutting-edge medical technology and research
- Additionally, diverse specialization opportunities
- Furthermore, robust professional development and continuing education
- Lastly, Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) support
OINP Fast-Track: Ontario’s In-Demand Skills stream prioritizes healthcare workers. Consequently, nurses with job offers in shortage occupations receive accelerated processing.
4. Montreal, Quebec ($65,000 – $82,000)
Quebec offers a unique opportunity for Registered Nurse Canada professionals, especially those with French language skills. Although salaries are slightly lower than in Western provinces, Montreal provides an affordable cost of living and a rich cultural experience.
Top Employers:
- McGill University Health Centre
- Jewish General Hospital
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM)
Why Montreal?
- Primarily, lower cost of living compared to Toronto or Vancouver
- Additionally, bilingual work environment (English/French)
- Moreover, strong immigrant support systems
- Finally, Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
Language Bonus: French-speaking nurses receive priority processing and additional points in Quebec’s immigration system.
5. Winnipeg, Manitoba ($66,000–$85,000)
Manitoba has emerged as an attractive destination for international nurses seeking both career opportunities and affordable living. Indeed, the province actively recruits healthcare workers through its well-established PNP pathway.
Major Employers:
- Shared Health Manitoba
- Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg
- St. Boniface Hospital
Why Winnipeg?
- First, one of the most affordable major cities in Canada
- Additionally, strong community support for newcomers
- Furthermore, streamlined Manitoba PNP process
- Lastly, growing healthcare sector
MPNP Fast-Track: Manitoba’s Skilled Worker Overseas stream regularly invites registered nurses, with processing times averaging 4-6 months.
Understanding PNP Fast-Track Options for Registered Nurses
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are the fastest pathway to permanent residency for Registered Nurse Canada professionals. Unlike Federal Express Entry, PNPs allow provinces to nominate candidates who meet specific labor market needs.
How PNP Works for Nurses:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer Most PNP streams require a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. Importantly, nursing is a priority occupation in nearly every province.
Step 2: Apply for Provincial Nomination Next, submit your application to the province’s PNP program. Meanwhile, healthcare workers often receive priority processing.
Step 3: Receive Nomination If approved, you receive a provincial nomination certificate worth 600 CRS points in Express Entry, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residency Finally, with your nomination, apply for PR through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Typically, processing takes 6-12 months.
Top PNP Programs for Registered Nurses:
| Province | Program Name | Processing Time | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | Alberta Advantage Immigration Program | 2-4 months | Highest salaries, no sales tax |
| British Columbia | BC PNP Healthcare | 2-3 months | Priority processing for healthcare |
| Ontario | OINP In-Demand Skills | 3-6 months | Largest job market |
| Manitoba | MPNP Skilled Worker | 4-6 months | Affordable living, fast processing |
| Nova Scotia | NSNP Labour Market | 3-5 months | Atlantic immigration pathway |
Requirements for Registered Nurse Canada Positions
To work as a registered nurse in Canada, international candidates must meet specific licensing and immigration requirements:
Licensing Requirements:
- NCLEX-RN Exam – All provinces require passing the National Council Licensure Examination
- Provincial Registration – Subsequently, apply to your province’s nursing regulatory body
- Language Proficiency – Additionally, IELTS or CELPIP scores (typically CLB 7 minimum)
- Credential Assessment – Finally, NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service) evaluation
Immigration Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Educational credentials assessment
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination
- Proof of work experience (typically 1-2 years)
How to Apply for Registered Nurse Canada Jobs
Step 1: Research Provincial Requirements Each province has unique licensing requirements. Therefore, visit your target province’s nursing regulatory body website.
Step 2: Complete NCLEX-RN Next, register and pass the NCLEX-RN examination through Pearson VUE.
Step 3: Apply for Jobs Subsequently, use official hospital career portals:
- Alberta Health Services Career Portal
- Vancouver Coastal Health Jobs
- Ontario Health Careers
- Canadian Nurses Association Job Board
Step 4: Secure Job Offer Once hired, your employer will provide a formal job offer letter required for PNP applications.
Step 5: Apply for PNP Then, submit your provincial nomination application with all supporting documents.
Step 6: Apply for Work Permit or PR Finally, depending on your situation, apply for either a work permit or permanent residency.
Benefits of Working as a Registered Nurse Canada
- Competitive Salaries—Earn $65,000 to $95,000 annually with regular increases
- Comprehensive Benefits—Additionally, healthcare coverage, dental, pension plans, paid vacation
- Job Security—Moreover, nursing shortages guarantee long-term employment stability
- Fast-Track Immigration—Furthermore, PNP pathways lead to permanent residency in 6-12 months
- Quality of Life—Safe cities, excellent education system, multicultural society
- Career Growth—Besides, opportunities for specialization, advanced practice, leadership roles
- Family Sponsorship—Finally, bring your spouse and children with you
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work as a nurse in Canada without NCLEX?
No. All provinces require NCLEX-RN certification for registered nurses.
Q: How long does the licensing process take?
The licensing process typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the credential assessment and exam scheduling.
Q: Do I need a job offer for PNP?
Most PNP streams require a valid job offer, though some provinces have Express Entry-aligned streams.
Q: Which province pays nurses the highest?
Alberta consistently offers the highest registered nurse salaries in Canada, ranging from $74,000 to $95,000.
Q: Can my family come with me?
Yes. Most immigration pathways allow you to include your spouse and dependent children.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s healthcare system is calling for qualified Registered Nurse Canada professionals, and the opportunities have never been more compelling. Indeed, 2025 is the ideal time to make your move, with salaries reaching $95,000, fast-tracked immigration through Provincial Nominee Programs, and a clear pathway to permanent residency.
Whether you’re drawn to Vancouver’s coastal beauty, Alberta’s high salaries, or Toronto’s world-class hospitals, Canadian provinces are ready to welcome you with open arms and competitive compensation packages.
Ultimately, if you’ve been considering an international nursing career, the time to act is now. Therefore, secure your Registered Nurse Canada position, begin your PNP application, and start building your future in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.