Nursing jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, who are looking for stable careers abroad. With a growing demand for medical staff, many Canadian hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers are actively recruiting internationally trained nurses. The good news is that several employers in Canada also provide visa sponsorship, making it easier for foreign nurses to live and work in the country legally.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about nursing jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship in 2025, including eligibility requirements, work visa types, average salaries, top provinces hiring nurses, trusted job portals, and how to apply successfully.

Why Choose Canada for Nursing Jobs?

There are many reasons why Canada is one of the best places to work as a nurse:

High Demand: Canada is experiencing a shortage of nurses, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Attractive Salaries: Nurses in Canada earn competitive wages compared to many countries.
Work-Life Balance: Canadian labor laws ensure fair working hours and employee rights.
Path to Permanent Residency: Many nursing jobs come with immigration support leading to permanent residency.
Multicultural Environment: Canada welcomes immigrants, making it easier for foreign nurses to adapt.

Visa and Immigration Pathways for Nurses in Canada

To work legally in Canada as a nurse, you will need a valid work permit or permanent residency pathway. Some of the most common immigration options include:

1. Temporary Work Permit with Employer Sponsorship

If a Canadian employer offers you a job and is willing to sponsor, you can apply for a work permit supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Many provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Manitoba have special immigration streams for healthcare professionals, including nurses.

3. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)

Registered nurses are on Canada’s list of eligible occupations. If you meet the qualifications, you can apply through Express Entry, which may lead to permanent residency.

4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

For those willing to work in Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island), the AIP offers a fast-track pathway.

5. Caregiver Programs

In some cases, nurses may qualify under Canada’s caregiver or healthcare worker programs, which also lead to PR opportunities.

Qualifications Required for Nursing Jobs in Canada

Foreign nurses must meet specific requirements before being allowed to work in Canada:

Education: A nursing degree or diploma from a recognized institution.
Language Proficiency: Proof of English (IELTS/CELBAN) or French (TEF) proficiency.
Nursing Registration: Apply to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) to evaluate your credentials.
Licensing: Register with a provincial nursing regulatory body such as:
- College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
- British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
- Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN)
Work Experience: Prior nursing experience is often required by employers.

Average Salaries for Nurses in Canada (2025)

The salary of nurses in Canada depends on location, experience, and specialization:

Registered Nurse (RN): CAD $70,000 – $95,000 per year
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): CAD $50,000 – $65,000 per year
Nurse Practitioner (NP): CAD $95,000 – $120,000 per year
Entry-Level Nurse: Around CAD $30 – $35 per hour

Provinces such as Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario tend to offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living.

Provinces in Canada with High Demand for Nurses

Ontario – The largest province with constant demand for healthcare staff.
British Columbia – Attractive salaries and sponsorship opportunities.
Nova Scotia & New Brunswick – Actively recruiting international nurses under AIP.
Manitoba – Welcomes foreign-trained nurses through PNP streams.
Alberta – High-paying nursing jobs in hospitals and private clinics.

Top Employers Offering Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

Some healthcare institutions and organizations in Canada are known to hire and sponsor international nurses:

Toronto General Hospital (Ontario)
Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto)
Vancouver General Hospital (British Columbia)
Fraser Health Authority (British Columbia)
Nova Scotia Health Authority (Nova Scotia)
St. Michael’s Hospital (Ontario)
Alberta Health Services (Alberta)
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto)

These institutions often post international job openings on their official websites and collaborate with government immigration programs.

Official Job Portals to Find Nursing Jobs in Canada

If you are looking for reliable sources to find sponsored nursing jobs, here are some trusted job portals:

Job Bank Canada – The official government job portal with nursing opportunities, some marked as “LMIA available.”
HealthForceOntario – Ontario’s official recruitment platform for healthcare professionals.
WorkBC – British Columbia’s job portal with healthcare listings.
Indeed Canada – Includes thousands of nursing job postings, often with “visa sponsorship” in the description.
LinkedIn Jobs – Widely used by hospitals and recruitment agencies.
Glassdoor Canada – Provides job listings along with salary insights and employer reviews.

How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in Canada with Sponsorship

Prepare Your Resume (Canadian Format): Highlight skills, certifications, and international experience.
Verify Your Credentials (NNAS): Submit documents for assessment before applying for licensing.
Apply for Licensing: Contact the regulatory body in your chosen province.
Search for Jobs: Use the official portals and apply to hospitals directly.
Secure Employer Sponsorship: If selected, your employer will apply for LMIA and support your work permit.
Apply for a Work Visa: Submit your application through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada).
Relocate to Canada: Once approved, you can move and begin your nursing career.

Tips for International Nurses

Start with Provinces in Need: Apply in Atlantic Canada or rural areas with shortages.
Take Language Exams Early: IELTS or CELBAN scores are often mandatory.
Highlight Specialized Skills: Critical care, ICU, and geriatric nurses are in high demand.
Stay Updated with Immigration Programs: PNP and Express Entry cut-off scores change frequently.
Network with Recruiters: Join healthcare recruitment agencies specializing in foreign nurses.

Challenges of Nursing Jobs in Canada for Foreigners

Credential Recognition: Licensing and NNAS assessment can be time-consuming.
High Competition: Many international nurses apply for limited sponsored positions.
Relocation Costs: Moving to Canada may require significant investment.
Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to Canadian healthcare systems and practices may take time.

Conclusion

Canada offers excellent opportunities for international nurses seeking stable and rewarding careers. With visa sponsorship options, high salaries, and multiple immigration pathways, working as a nurse in Canada in 2025 is achievable for qualified professionals. By preparing your credentials, targeting high-demand provinces, and applying through trusted employers and job portals, you can build a successful nursing career in one of the world’s most immigrant-friendly countries.