Can a Licensed Practical Nurse Lpn Immigrate to Canada?

Q: Can a Licensed Practical Nurse Lpn immigrate to Canada?

Yes, Licensed Practical Nurse Lpns can immigrate to Canada through programs like Express Entry (FSW), Provincial Nominee Programs, and employer-sponsored LMIA work permits. There are currently 0 active job openings and 0 employers hiring.

Yes — licensed practical nurse lpns can immigrate to Canada. See eligible programs, salary data, and pathways below.

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Provinces

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Licensing and Registration

NNAS Credential Assessment

Internationally educated nurses must have their credentials assessed by the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) before applying to a provincial or territorial nursing regulator. NNAS evaluates your education, registration/licensure, and language proficiency to determine how your qualifications compare to Canadian standards. This is the first step toward nursing registration in Canada.

Provincial/Territorial Nursing Registration

Nursing is a regulated profession in all Canadian provinces and territories. After your NNAS assessment, you must register with the nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where you intend to practise (e.g., CNO in Ontario, BCCNM in British Columbia, OIIQ in Quebec). Requirements vary by jurisdiction and may include additional exams such as the NCLEX-RN (for Registered Nurses) or the REx-PN (for Licensed/Registered Practical Nurses), supervised practice, and language proficiency verification.

Free Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Nurses In Canada

PASS Program (Professional Access and Success for Nurses)

The PASS (Professional Access and Success) program is a bridging initiative designed to help internationally educated nurses (IENs) already in Canada transition into the Canadian healthcare system. PASS provides supports such as exam preparation, clinical placement assistance, mentorship, and guidance through the licensing process to help IENs meet Canadian nursing registration requirements.

The program may be offered at no cost to eligible participants, depending on funding and location. Eligibility criteria, available locations, and services may vary — visit the official PASS website for the most current information.

Visit pass4nurses.org

Key Requirements

Work Experience

One to two years of continuous paid work experience as a licensed practical nurse lpn or in a closely related role.

Language Proficiency

Proof of English or French language skills via an approved test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French). A minimum CLB 7 in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.

Education & Credential Assessment (NNAS)

Internationally educated nurses must have their credentials assessed by the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). NNAS evaluates your nursing education, registration/licensure history, and language proficiency to determine how your qualifications compare to Canadian entry-to-practice competencies. This is a required first step before applying to a provincial/territorial nursing regulator.

Licensing and Registration

Nursing is a regulated profession in all Canadian provinces and territories. After your NNAS assessment, you must register with the nursing regulatory body in the province/territory where you intend to practise (e.g., CNO in Ontario, BCCNM in British Columbia, OIIQ in Quebec). Requirements typically include passing the NCLEX-RN exam (for Registered Nurses) or the REx-PN (for Licensed/Registered Practical Nurses), meeting language proficiency standards, and potentially completing supervised practice hours or a bridging program.

Job Offer

A valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA is required for employer-sponsored work permits and satisfies eligibility criteria for some Express Entry programs. Note: as of March 2025, job offers no longer add CRS points.

Proof of Funds

You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds — currently $15,263 for a single applicant, $28,362 for a family of 4. Waived if you have a valid Canadian job offer.