Work Legally In Canada: Medical Licensing For Newcomers

If you're a nurse or doctor trained outside Canada and dreaming of continuing your healthcare career here, you're not alone. Many internationally educated medical professionals (IEMPs) come to Canada each year hoping to use their valuable skills. However, working in Canada’s healthcare system means meeting strict licensing requirements.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to get licensed as a nurse or doctor in Canada, with clear explanations and practical advice.

Understanding Canada’s Healthcare Licensing System

Canada has separate licensing processes for nurses and doctors, and each province or territory regulates these professions. This means you must apply through the regulatory authority in the province where you plan to live and work.

The process involves verifying your education and experience, meeting language standards, passing exams, and sometimes completing additional training.

Let’s break it down for both professions.

How To Get Licensed As A Nurse In Canada

Step 1: Choose Your Nursing Category

Canada recognizes different types of nurses:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
  
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) (in Ontario)
  
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  

Most internationally educated nurses (IENs) apply as RNs or LPNs.

Step 2: Apply To The National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS)

The NNAS is the starting point for all internationally educated nurses. Here's what you need to do:

• Create an online account at the NNAS website.
  
• Submit your identity documents, proof of nursing education, and professional experience.
  
• Pay the required fees.
  
• Ensure your transcripts and employment documents are sent directly to NNAS from your schools and employers.
  

NNAS will evaluate your qualifications and provide an advisory report.

Step 3: Apply To The Provincial Regulatory Body

Once you get your NNAS report, apply to the nursing regulatory body in the province where you want to work. They will assess your report and may ask for additional documents or training.

Here are some provincial bodies:

• 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)
  
• And so on.
  

Step 4: Meet Language Requirements

You must prove your English or French language proficiency by taking approved tests like:

• IELTS (Academic version)
  
• CELBAN – specifically for nurses
  

The regulatory body will let you know the minimum score required.

Step 5: Pass The Licensing Exam

To become an RN in Canada, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. For LPNs, there’s a different licensing exam. You may also be asked to complete a bridging program if your education doesn't fully match Canadian standards.

Step 6: Get Registered And Start Working

Once you pass the exam and meet all requirements, you’ll receive your license to practice as a nurse in Canada!

How To Get Licensed As A Doctor In Canada

If you’re a foreign-trained doctor, the process is longer and more complex but still possible.

Step 1: Source Verification Of Your Medical Degree

Register with PhysiciansApply.ca, the main portal for international medical graduates (IMGs).

• Submit your medical degree for verification by the Medical Council of Canada (MCC).
  
• Pay the verification fees.
  
• Your credentials will be checked and stored securely for licensing use.
  

Step 2: Take The Required Exams

There are a few exams that most IMGs must take:

• Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Exam (MCCQE) Part I – tests general medical knowledge
  
• National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) Exam – assesses readiness for residency positions
  

You may also need MCCQE Part II later, depending on the province.

Step 3: Apply For Residency (If Needed)

In Canada, most foreign-trained doctors must complete a residency program before they can practise independently.

• Apply through CaRMS (Canadian Resident Matching Service).
  
• Get clinical experience in Canada or observerships to improve your chances.
  
• Some provinces offer special residency spots for IMGs.
  

Step 4: Apply To The Provincial Medical Regulatory Authority

Each province or territory has its own College of Physicians and Surgeons. For example:

• Ontario – College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
  
• British Columbia – College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC
  
• Alberta – College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)
  

Once you’ve completed the exams and (if required) residency, apply for a licence to practise medicine.

Step 5: Meet Language Requirements

You must show that you are fluent in English or French, usually through IELTS Academic, TOEFL, or equivalent tests. Each province sets its own language benchmarks.

Helpful Tips For Success

• Start early – Document verification and exams take time.
  
• Stay updated – Licensing rules may change by province or occupation.
  
• Get local experience – Observerships, internships, or volunteering help.
  
• Seek help – Many provinces have support programs for internationally educated healthcare professionals.
  
• Be patient and persistent – The journey is long but achievable with the right preparation.
  

Final Thoughts

Canada is in great need of healthcare workers, and the country values the skills of internationally educated nurses and doctors. While the licensing process can seem overwhelming, it’s designed to ensure that everyone working in the healthcare system meets consistent standards of care and safety.

If you’re serious about continuing your healthcare career in Canada, prepare carefully, follow each step, and stay motivated. With dedication and the right information, your dream of practising medicine or nursing in Canada can become a reality.