If you’re an internationally educated nurse planning to migrate and work in Canada, the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses is the bestest choice to achieve your goals. This program is designed to support nurses even before they land in Canada. The PASS Program offers a blend of resources, mentorship, and guidance to help you get licensed and job-ready quickly.
In this guide, we will walk you through the essential parts of the PASS Program for internationally educated nurses in Canada: its benefits, eligibility, application steps, and how it supports you pre- and post-arrival.
Table Of Content
1What is the PASS Program in Canada?2Benefits of the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses3PASS Program in Canada Eligibility4PASS Program Requirements for Internationally Educated Nurses5Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Services for Nurses Under the PASS Program6How to Apply for the PASS Program in Canada7The Bottom Line9Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PASS Program in Canada?
The PASS Program in Canada is a free, government-funded initiative offered by CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs). It provides pre-arrival and post-arrival support to IENs immigrating to Canada, helping them deal with the credential recognition, regulatory exams, and the Canadian healthcare system.
Delivered online, the program is designed for internationally educated nurses approved for Canadian permanent residence and helps them become licensed registered nurses (RN) or licensed practical nurses (LPN) in Canada more efficiently.
The PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses helps bridge the gap between international nursing education and Canadian licensure. Whether you’re applying as a skilled worker under Canada Immigration streams or coming via family sponsorship, the PASS Program makes the transition very much smoother.
Benefits of the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses
The PASS Program offers both pre-arrival and post-arrival services, equipping IENs with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed for successful professional and personal integration.
Here are some key benefits of the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses:
1. Comprehensive Support and Guidance
- Assists IENs in preparing for employment in Canada’s regulated nursing sector.
- Offers detailed guidance on provincial and territorial licensure requirements.
- Helps navigate the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) and regulatory bodies.
- Provides individual case management and step-by-step advice for the nursing assessment and registration process.
- Delivers webinars on Canada’s healthcare system, labor market trends, and nursing regulation.
2. Skills and Professional Development
- Enhances nursing-specific communication skills through self-paced online courses.
- Offers specialized modules like:
- Professional Writing Skills for IENs
- Online English for Nursing Communication
- Features the Workplace Integration Program (WIP) to help healthcare employers recruit and retain internationally educated nurses.
3. Access to Information and Learning Resources
- 24/7 access to a variety of live and recorded webinars, workshops, and e-learning materials.
- Topics include:
- Human Rights in Employment
- Self-Care Strategies for IENs
- Indigenous Health and Cultural Competency (upcoming modules)
- IENs can interact with presenters and ask questions during live sessions.
4. Mentorship and Networking
- Facilitates connections with licensed nurse mentors across Canada.
- Promotes networking through partnerships with the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA).
- Helps IENs build industry relationships and gain first-hand insights into the healthcare landscape.
5. Employment Support
- Offers guidance on both regulated and non-regulated healthcare roles in Canada.
- Assists with:
- Resume and cover letter preparation
- Interview techniques
- Exploring job and volunteer opportunities while pursuing licensure
6. Referrals and Integration Services
- Connects IENs with:
- Language training
- Employment preparation programs
- Settlement services before and after arrival
- Gives access to special events hosted by the CARE Centre for IENs and other partners.
These benefits not only help IENs clear barriers faster but also increase their chances of securing in-demand nurse jobs in Canada.
PASS Program in Canada Eligibility
To participate in the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on profession, immigration status, and location.
Check below to see if you’re eligible:
1. Profession
- You must be an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) to apply.
- If you’re seeking general healthcare employment support but are not an IEN, consider applying to a general employment support program instead.
2. Nursing Education
- You must have graduated from a recognized nursing school in your country.
- Official proof of nursing education is required during registration.
3. Immigration Status
- You must have official approval from IRCC to immigrate to Canada (i.e., you’re in the process of becoming a Permanent Resident).
- Acceptable immigration documents include:
- An IRCC invitation to obtain pre-arrival services
- A Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- A Passport request letter indicating PR visa issuance
- An IRCC request for a medical examination
- A Single Entry Permanent Resident Visa
- A Permanent Resident Visa pick-up notification letter
4. Location-Based Eligibility
- Outside Canada: Eligible for the PASS Pre-Arrival Program
- Inside Canada: Eligible for the PASS Post-Arrival Program
This program is especially relevant for individuals planning to migrate to Canada from India or other countries as skilled healthcare professionals.
PASS Program Requirements for Internationally Educated Nurses
To participate in the Canada’s PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses, you must meet the following key requirements:
- Proof of approved Canadian permanent residency status
- Verified nursing education credentials from outside Canada
- Access to a computer with a stable internet connection for participating in online learning
- Willingness and commitment to complete all program modules
The PASS newcomer services are offered at no cost, and all services are provided in English.
Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Services for Nurses Under the PASS Program
The PASS Program offers various customized services for internationally educated nurses (IENs) throughout their career journey to Canada.
Before you arrive in Canada, pre-arrival services provide insight into the Canadian healthcare system, the licensing process, and the job market.
After your arrival, the post-arrival services supports you with settlement assistance, interview preparation, professional networking, and continued career development by helping you to begin your nursing career in Canada with confidence.
Let’s take a closer look at the pre-arrival and post-arrival services the PASS Program offers to IENs:
Pre-Arrival Program (For IENs Outside Canada)
Designed for IENs who have not yet arrived in Canada but have received IRCC approval for permanent residency, this component is accessible from your home country and helps you prepare before your move.
Services Include:
- Access to online webinars, courses, and workshops
- Mentorship connections with practicing Canadian nurses
- English language and nursing communication training
- Personalized employment support and resume/cover letter assistance
- Step-by-step guidance on nursing licensure and assessment
- Webinars on nursing labour market trends and Canada’s healthcare system
- Referrals to settlement, employment, and language services
- Assistance finding pre-registration and non-licensed employment opportunities
Post-Arrival Program (For IENs in Canada)
For IENs who have already landed in Canada, the Post-Arrival Program extends continued support to help integrate into the workforce and adjust to life in Canada.
Services Include:
- Ongoing access to webinars, courses, and mentorship
- Continued language and communication development
- Guidance on job search strategies, licensure pathways, and workplace integration
- Connections to newcomer settlement and employment programs
- Invitations to CARE Centre for IENs events
- Specialized webinars such as:
- Human Rights and Employment for IENs
- Self-Care Strategies for IENs
- Professional Writing Skills for IENs
How to Apply for the PASS Program in Canada
If you’re an internationally educated nurse (IEN) preparing to begin your journey in Canada, the PASS (Pre-Arrival Supports and Services) Program offers essential guidance before and after your arrival. The application process is simple, but eligibility is key.
The step-by-step guide to apply for the PASS program in Canada:
1. Make sure You Meet the Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the PASS Program, you must:
- Be an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN)
- Have received approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to immigrate to Canada
2. Gather the Required Documents
Before registering, make sure you have the following:
a) Proof of Nursing Education:
- Graduation certificate or transcript from a recognized nursing school in your home country
b) Proof of IRCC Approval:
You must provide at least one of the following immigration documents:
- IRCC invitation to obtain pre-arrival services
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- Passport request letter indicating permanent resident visa issuance
- IRCC request for a medical exam as part of the PR process
- Single Entry Permanent Resident Visa
- Permanent Resident Visa pick-up notification letter
- Applicants with a CUAET Temporary Resident Visa are also eligible
3. Complete the PASS Registration Form
- Visit the official PASS website: www.pass4nurses.org
- Fill out the registration form and upload your supporting documents
- Choose your program type:
- Pre-Arrival (if you’re outside Canada)
- Post-Arrival (if you’re already in Canada)
4. Start Receiving Services
Once your documents are reviewed and eligibility is confirmed, you’ll get access to:
- Career coaching
- Licensing and NNAS guidance
- Language and job readiness training
- Integration support and more
Once you get accepted, you’ll receive personalized support tailored to your background and professional goals.
The Bottom Line
The PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses is an excellent resource for nurses planning to work as a Registered Nurse in Canada. With comprehensive support in both the licensing and employment process, it eases your integration into Canada’s healthcare system.
Whether you are seeking a bridging program or looking to join one of the in-demand jobs in Canada, PASS Program can help you get there.
