If you intend to work as a nurse in Canada, you might be curious to know which province has the best opportunities for nurses.
This article will help you decide which province you should seek employment in as a nurse.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for immigrant healthcare workers in Canada has increased.
Nursing, an integral part of the healthcare system, faces a shortage of workers in Canada.
In fact, over 500,000 Nurses in Canada will likely retire in a few years, leaving vacancies that need to be filled.
An entry-level Nurse in Canada earns an average of $41,122 annually, while experienced Nurses earn up to $78,886 annually.
This is high when compared to other developed countries.
However, some provinces in Canada offer better opportunities for Nurses, such as varied job options, high wages, and flexible schedules.
What is the Best Province to work as a Nurse in Canada
Generally, Nurses enjoy attractive salaries and other benefits in most Canadian provinces.
However, the following provinces are the best provinces in Canada to work as a nurse.
1. Nova Scotia
Whether as an entry-level or experienced nurse, Nova Scotia tops every other Province in terms of opportunities and salaries for a professional willing to work as a Nurse in Canada.
With a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, you can earn up to $37.13 per hour or $77,600 annually.
This figure is far more than the average salary in Canada.
A study conducted in 2018 showed that it’s easier for postgraduate students to find a Nursing job in Nova Scotia than in any other Canadian Province.
Nova Scotia currently needs Geriatric Nurses to care for its aging population.
This province should be your top choice if you intend to work as a nurse in Canada.
2. New Brunswick
When you hear “flexible work schedules,” you should think of New Brunswick.
Most hospitals in this province run up to 4 shifts at a time, after which Nurses take 4 shifts off.
New Brunswick is well-known for taking good care of its Nurses. Registered Nurses earn up to $35.45 hourly or $68,556 annually.
New Brunswick is one Province where a foreign national can study Nursing cheaply.
Getting your tertiary Qualifications in Nursing costs about $10,500 annually, after which you’re almost sure of a high-paying job.
If you intend to start a Nursing career in Canada, you should consider New Brunswick.
3. Manitoba
Manitoba, in general, has many opportunities for skilled workers.
If you’re a registered nurse with years of experience, Manitoba has the opportunities you seek to work as a nurse in Canada.
Nurses in Manitoba earn up to $33.11 hourly or $63,000 annually.
As members of Canada’s Public Service Health Care Plan, they are entitled to many privileges.
However, becoming a Nurse in Manitoba requires fulfilling the province’s educational requirements for advanced practice nursing.
Benefits of Working as a Nurse in Canada
You shouldn’t second-guess migrating to Canada as a Nurse because of the numerous benefits Nurses enjoy in Canada.
In 2021, Canada was rated as the best Country to work as a Nurse.
This is no surprise, considering the Canadian government’s efforts to ensure healthcare workers enjoy great benefits.
As a registered nurse in Canada, you are entitled to the following benefits.
- Life insurance
- Medical care (semi-private hospitalization, prescription drugs, vision, and dental care)
- Accidental death and Dismemberment insurance
- Short and long-term disability benefits
- Pension plan for nurses who work at least 12 hours per week
- Counseling services
- Health/ wellness programs
- Sponsored vacation and holidays
8 Highest Paying Jobs For Nurses in Canada
Here are the 8 highest jobs for a professional willing to work as a Nurse in Canada and their salaries.
- Registered Nurse anesthetist – $157,690
- Psychiatric–Mental health nurse practitioner – $102,000
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – $98,778
- Certified nurse midwife – $96,970
- Family Nurse practitioner – $95,350
- Pediatric nurse – $88,000
- Critical care nurse – $81,000
- Gerontological nurse – $64.906
How to Immigrate to Canada As a Nurse
Immigrating to Canada as a Nurse requires you to get a Canadian Work Permit following these steps:
1. Choose a Province to Live and Work as a Nurse in Canada
You must choose a province in Canada that you intend to work and live.
You must choose a province with many opportunities for nurses.
2. Assessment of Your Credentials
After choosing a province, your credentials must be assessed by the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) or the Canadian Nurses Association.
If it is approved, it must be converted to North American Standard.
Meet the Requirements
You must meet the following requirements to work in and immigrate to Canada as a Registered Nurse.
- You must have a tertiary qualification
- You must have a relevant work experience
- You must have a Job offer in Canada
- You must have language proficiency in English and/or French.
Immigration Programs for Nurses in Canada
Here are the top Canadian immigration programs available to foreign nationals who intend to Immigrate to Canada as Nurses
- Express Entry (EE)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program.
- Quebec Skilled Workers Program
If you need assistance with immigrating to work as a Nurse in Canada, immigly.com is willing to guide you through the process.