Nursing registration

Who this pathway suits

Internationally educated registered nurses and practical nurses planning to practise in Canada.

Eligibility at a glance

• Graduation from an accredited nursing education program comparable to Canadian standards
• Current or past nursing registration/license in your country of education or practice
• English (IELTS Academic or CELBAN) or French language proficiency
• Completion of National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) credential evaluation or direct provincial expedited review (e.g. Ontario CNO, BC BCCNM, Alberta CRNA)

How the process works

1. Open file with National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) or direct provincial nursing college
2. Submit official academic transcripts, syllabus, and regulatory verification forms directly from institutions
3. Receive Advisory Report and apply to chosen provincial nursing regulator (e.g., CNO in Ontario, CRNA in Alberta)
4. Complete Competency Assessment (NCAS/OSCE) or bridge education if required
5. Pass the NCLEX-RN licensing examination and achieve full registration

Documents you will typically need

• Primary nursing degree diploma, full course breakdown transcripts, verification of license forms, employer reference forms, IELTS/CELBAN test results

What to keep in mind

Several provinces (notably Ontario and Alberta) have introduced expedited licensing pathways allowing IENs to sit the NCLEX-RN rapidly.