Your Career. Your Future.
We're Here to Help.
At IWK Health, we recognize and value the experience, knowledge, and diverse perspectives that internationally educated healthcare professionals bring to our teams. Our Recruitment & Immigration team is committed to supporting eligible employees throughout their immigration journey—from obtaining a work permit to achieving permanent residency.
Immigration Support
Permanent Residence Pathway Guidance
We provide employer support for eligible employees pursuing:
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (NSNP)
- Express Entry (where applicable)
- Other employer-supported immigration pathways
Work Permit Support
We assist eligible employees with:
- Employer-specific work permit applications
- Work permit extensions
- Maintaining work authorization
- Immigration documentation required by IRCC
Individual Immigration Consultations
Employees can book one-on-one consultations to discuss:
- Permanent residence options
- Work permit planning
- Immigration timelines
- Eligibility for available pathways
- Employer support available through IWK Health
Federal Supports
(Not Immigration Programs)
While there isn't a dedicated PR stream for nurses, the federal government funds programs that help internationally educated nurses integrate into the Canadian workforce.
PASS Program - Nurses only
The PASS (Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services) Program, funded by IRCC, provides:
- Nursing career guidance
- Mentorship
- Canadian healthcare orientation
- Communication training
- Assistance navigating provincial licensing requirements
Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) Program
The federal government also invests in the Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) Program, which supports projects that help internationally educated professionals—including nurses—have their credentials recognized and enter the Canadian labour market more quickly.
Obtaining a License
For positions that require licensing, applicants are advised to secure a license to practice in Nova Scotia before applying for positions. The process for obtaining a license varies from one province to another, so we recommend starting the licensing process in Nova Scotia as soon as possible.
If you have questions concerning the licensing process, please contact the relevant college directly:
- Nova Scotia College of Nursing
- The Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists
- Nova Scotia College of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Professionals (NSCMIRTP)
- Nova Scotia College of Respiratory Therapists
- Physician Assistants Regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons
- Nova Scotia College of Medical Laboratory Technologists
- Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists
Immigrating to Canada
To work in Canada, international applicants are required to obtain a work permit. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to determine if you require a work permit and for instructions on how to apply.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website is the primary source of information, followed by Nova Scotia Immigration website for information on the different options for immigrating to Canada.