How Nigerian Nurses Can Get License to Work in Canada

For many Nigerian nurses, Canada represents a land of opportunity offering better pay, advanced healthcare facilities, and a chance to grow professionally in one of the most respected nursing environments in the world.

But one of the most common questions aspiring international nurses ask is: “How Nigerian Nurses Can Get License to Work in Canada?” If you’ve been searching for a clear, step-by-step explanation, this guide is designed to answer that question and walk you through the exact process in 2025.

When I was preparing to move abroad as a registered nurse, I remember the overwhelming number of documents, exams, and requirements I had to figure out. At first, I didn’t know where to start or which organizations were responsible for licensing. It felt like trying to put together a puzzle without seeing the full picture. Many Nigerian nurses face the same challenge today — but the good news is that the process, though detailed, becomes much simpler when broken down into manageable steps.

To work legally as a nurse in Canada, you’ll need more than just your Nigerian nursing license. You must go through credential verification, meet language requirements, and obtain approval from the nursing regulatory body in the province where you plan to practice. This involves applying through the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS), passing the NCLEX-RN or relevant provincial exam, and securing registration with the College of Nurses in your chosen province (such as Ontario, Alberta, or British Columbia). Each stage requires careful planning, from submitting transcripts and proof of experience to meeting English language standards like IELTS or CELBAN.

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand not only the official requirements but also insider tips to help you avoid common mistakes Nigerian nurses make when applying. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a seasoned nurse with years of experience, this resource will give you the clarity and confidence to take the first step toward your Canadian nursing career.

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1. Eligibility Requirements for Nigerian Nurses

Before beginning the licensing process, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria. Meeting these basic requirements is the first step in how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada. The Canadian nursing system has strict standards to ensure all nurses, whether trained locally or internationally, can provide safe and competent care.

Educational Requirements:

• You must hold a valid nursing degree or diploma from a recognized Nigerian institution.

• Transcripts should reflect adequate clinical and theoretical hours in adult health, pediatric, maternal, mental health, and community nursing.

• Some provinces may require additional training if gaps are identified in your education.

Professional Experience:

• While fresh graduates can apply, having at least one to two years of clinical practice in Nigeria strengthens your application.

• Proof of work experience (employment letters or references) may be required during the credentialing process.

Nursing License in Nigeria:

• A current and valid license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is mandatory.

• You must also provide a verification letter confirming that your license is active and in good standing.

Language Proficiency:

• Since English or French is the official language in Canada, you must prove your language skills.

• Most provinces accept IELTS Academic (minimum CLB 7 in each band) or CELBAN (Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses).

• For nurses aiming to work in French-speaking provinces like Quebec, proficiency in French is required.

Immigration Eligibility:

• Being eligible for a Canadian work permit, permanent residency, or an immigration pathway (like Express Entry) is also necessary.

• Having nursing as part of the in-demand occupation list can make immigration easier.

Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures your application won’t be delayed or rejected at the early stages. If you fall short in any area, you may need to upgrade your qualifications or retake language exams before moving forward.

2. The NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service) Application Process

The National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) is the first official step in how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada. NNAS acts as the central body responsible for evaluating the education, training, and work experience of internationally educated nurses (IENs) before they can apply to any provincial nursing regulatory authority.

What is NNAS?
NNAS is essentially a gateway. It doesn’t grant licenses, but it verifies your nursing background and creates an Advisory Report. This report is then sent to the provincial nursing body where you want to register (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario or British Columbia College of Nurses).

Steps to Apply Through NNAS:

1. Create an Online Account: Go to the official NNAS website (www.nnas.ca) and set up your account. You’ll need to choose your nursing category — Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN).

2. Submit Personal Documents: Upload your valid passport, nursing license, and identification documents.

3. Send Nursing Education Transcripts: Your nursing school in Nigeria must send official transcripts directly to NNAS in sealed envelopes. These transcripts should include course descriptions and clinical hours.

4. License Verification: The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) must send verification of your active license directly to NNAS.

5. Employment Verification: If you have work experience, your employers in Nigeria must complete and send employment verification forms to NNAS.

6. Language Test Results: If required, send your official IELTS Academic or CELBAN scores to NNAS.

Processing Time and Costs:

• The NNAS process typically takes 6–12 months, depending on how quickly documents are submitted.

• The application fee is around $650 CAD, with additional costs for extra provincial applications or document reviews.

What Happens Next?
Once NNAS completes its evaluation, you’ll receive an Advisory Report. This report is then forwarded to the nursing regulatory body of the province you selected. From there, the province decides whether you can proceed directly to licensing exams (like NCLEX-RN) or if you need additional bridging or competency assessments.

Start collecting your documents early. Many Nigerian nurses face delays because of slow transcript processing or missing license verification letters.

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3. Applying to Provincial Nursing Regulatory Bodies

Once your NNAS Advisory Report is complete, the next step in how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada is to apply to a specific provincial nursing regulatory authority.

Nursing in Canada is regulated at the provincial level, which means each province or territory has its own licensing body and requirements.

Major Provincial Regulatory Bodies Include:

• Ontario: College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)

• British Columbia: British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)

• Alberta: College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)

• Manitoba: College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba (CRNM)

• Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Registered Nurses Association (SRNA)

• Quebec: Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec (OIIQ) – requires French proficiency

Steps to Apply at the Provincial Level:

1. Choose Your Province: Select a province based on job opportunities, immigration pathways, and whether you prefer English- or French-speaking regions.

2. Submit Your Application: Use the regulatory body’s online portal to apply. You’ll need to pay an application fee (typically CAD $300–500).

3. Assessment of Qualifications: The regulatory body will review your NNAS Advisory Report and may request additional documents or interviews.

4. Competency Assessment: If gaps are identified in your education or training, you may be asked to complete a Competency Assessment Program (CAP) or a bridging course at an approved Canadian nursing school.

5. Eligibility for Licensing Exams: Once your qualifications are accepted, you’ll be made eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN (for Registered Nurses) or the CPNRE (for Practical Nurses).

Provincial Differences to Keep in Mind:

• Some provinces, like Ontario and Alberta, are generally more open to internationally educated nurses and may have faster processing times.

• Quebec requires strong French proficiency and has a different licensing structure.

• Certain provinces may provide temporary or conditional licenses if you are already living in Canada and meet most requirements.

Do your research before applying. Immigration streams like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are tied to provinces, so choosing the right one can help you secure both a nursing license and permanent residency more easily.

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4. Preparing for and Passing the NCLEX-RN Exam

After your provincial regulatory body reviews your NNAS report and deems you eligible, the next major hurdle in how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada is passing the NCLEX-RN exam. This is the standardized licensing test for Registered Nurses across Canada (except Quebec, which uses a different exam).

What is the NCLEX-RN?
The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a computer-adaptive test that evaluates whether you’re ready to practice safely as a newly licensed entry-level nurse. It focuses heavily on critical thinking, clinical judgment, and safe decision-making rather than rote memorization.

Exam Structure:

• Format: Computer-adaptive, meaning the test adjusts its difficulty based on your answers.

• Questions: Between 75 and 145 questions, depending on performance.

• Time Limit: Up to 5 hours including breaks.

• Content Areas: Safe and effective care environment, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity (pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternity, etc.).

How Nigerian Nurses Can Prepare:

1. Understand the Exam Style: The NCLEX isn’t like typical Nigerian nursing exams. Practice scenario-based, application-level questions.

2. Use Reliable Study Resources:

   • Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN

   • UWorld NCLEX Practice Question Bank

   • Kaplan NCLEX Prep Courses

3. Create a Study Plan: Dedicate 3–6 months of consistent study, depending on your readiness level.

4. Practice with Mock Tests: Regularly take timed practice exams to simulate the real test environment.

5. Focus on Weak Areas: Use performance analytics from question banks like UWorld to strengthen topics where you score lower.

Exam Registration Process:

1. Apply to the regulatory body (CNO, BCCNM, etc.) for exam eligibility.

2. Receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE.

3. Schedule your exam online at an approved testing center (Pearson VUE has centers in Nigeria, such as Lagos, or you can take it in Canada).

4. Pay the exam fee — approximately $200 USD.

Passing the NCLEX on Your First Attempt:

• Stay calm — the adaptive system may feel difficult, but that’s a sign you’re performing well.

• Always choose the safest and most patient-centered option.

• Use test-day strategies like eliminating extreme answers and applying the ABC rule (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

Don’t underestimate the NCLEX. Many internationally educated nurses fail on their first attempt because they rely solely on their academic knowledge instead of practicing application-based NCLEX-style questions.

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5. Bridging Programs and Competency Assessments

Not all Nigerian nurses are granted direct eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN. In some cases, the provincial nursing body may identify gaps in your education or clinical training compared to Canadian standards.

When this happens, you may be required to complete a bridging program or a competency assessment before moving forward. This is a crucial part of how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada.

What Are Competency Assessments?

• Competency assessments evaluate your clinical knowledge, practical skills, and decision-making abilities.

• They are usually conducted in Canada at approved centers.

• Examples include Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), written tests, and clinical simulations.

• The outcome determines whether you can proceed to licensing or if you need extra training.

What Are Bridging Programs?

• Bridging programs are short-term academic and clinical training courses designed to help internationally educated nurses (IENs) meet Canadian standards.

• They usually last 4–12 months and are offered by Canadian universities and colleges.

• Programs focus on Canadian healthcare laws, patient safety, communication, and evidence-based practice.

Popular Bridging Programs in Canada:

• York University Post-RN Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) Program (Ontario)

• University of British Columbia Internationally Educated Nurses Bridging Program (British Columbia)

• Mount Royal University Bridge to Canadian Nursing Program (Alberta)

• Ryerson University Internationally Educated Nurses Program (Toronto, Ontario)

Costs and Requirements:

• Tuition fees range from CAD $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the institution and program length.

• Admission requires proof of NNAS assessment, English language test results, and sometimes an interview.

Why This Step Matters:

• Completing a bridging program strengthens your knowledge and gives you hands-on Canadian healthcare experience.

• It also improves your chances of employment because Canadian employers value nurses who have already adapted to the local healthcare environment.

Pro Tip: If you’re asked to complete a bridging program, consider it an investment rather than a setback. Many Nigerian nurses who completed these programs not only passed their licensing exams but also secured better-paying jobs faster.

6. Immigration Pathways and Work Permits for Nigerian Nurses

Getting your nursing license is only one part of the process. To actually practice in Canada, Nigerian nurses also need the right immigration status or work permit. Understanding these pathways is a key step in how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada.

1. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)

• Nurses are highly sought after in Canada and fall under the skilled worker category.

• Through Express Entry, you create an online profile and are scored under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

• Points are awarded based on age, education, work experience, and English/French proficiency.

• If selected, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

• Each province runs its own immigration program to attract skilled workers, including nurses.

• For example, Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and British Columbia PNP often prioritize healthcare professionals.

• Being nominated by a province adds extra points to your Express Entry profile, increasing your chances of permanent residency.

3. Work Permits with Job Offers

• If you secure a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may apply for a temporary work permit.

• Employers sometimes need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove they need a foreign nurse, though healthcare positions are often prioritized.

4. Student Visa Route

• Some Nigerian nurses choose to enroll in Canadian bridging programs or advanced nursing degrees.

• After completing studies, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which can eventually lead to permanent residency.

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

• For nurses willing to work in smaller provinces like Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or Newfoundland and Labrador.

• Offers a faster pathway to permanent residency for healthcare professionals.

Work Authorization Essentials:

• You must have either a valid work permit or permanent residency before you can legally practice as a nurse in Canada.

• Ensure your immigration process aligns with your licensing timeline to avoid delays in starting your career.

Many Nigerian nurses find success by combining the PNP route with licensing. Applying to a province that actively recruits healthcare workers increases both your chances of immigration approval and your job opportunities.

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7. Securing a Nursing Job in Canada After Licensing

Once Nigerian nurses complete the licensing process and secure immigration approval, the next big step is landing a job in Canada’s competitive healthcare system.

Knowing where and how to apply can make the difference between months of waiting and quickly starting your career.

1. Where to Find Nursing Jobs

• Hospital Websites – Most hospitals across provinces list vacancies directly on their official websites.

• Government Job Portals – For example, Job Bank Canada lists thousands of nursing openings.

• Recruitment Agencies – Specialized healthcare recruiters often connect internationally educated nurses with Canadian employers.

• Networking – Joining professional bodies like the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) or provincial nursing associations can open doors through networking events and job boards.

2. Job Roles Available for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs)
While awaiting full RN registration, Nigerian nurses may qualify for roles such as:

• Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) / Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

• Nurse Aide or Personal Support Worker (PSW)

• Graduate Nurse (GN) positions in some provinces
  These roles allow you to gain Canadian work experience while completing final licensing steps.

3. Tips for a Strong Application

• Tailor your Resume to Canadian standards (concise, achievement-focused, with keywords from the job posting).

• Highlight International Experience but focus on transferable skills like patient care, adaptability, and teamwork.

• Include Licensing Progress – Employers want to know where you are in the NNAS/NCLEX process. Mention if you’ve passed NCLEX or are awaiting provincial registration.

4. Interview Preparation

• Research the healthcare facility and its patient population.

• Practice common behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Be ready to discuss cultural competence, teamwork, and how you adapt to new environments.

5. Settling into Your First Role

• Expect a period of adjustment to Canadian workplace culture.

• Take advantage of orientation programs offered by hospitals.

• Continue professional development through workshops and online courses to strengthen your career growth.

Pro Tip: Many Nigerian nurses secure their first Canadian role in long-term care facilities, rural hospitals, or community health centers. These settings often have higher demand and can serve as stepping stones to larger urban hospitals.

8. Challenges Nigerian Nurses May Face in Canada (and How to Overcome Them)

Transitioning from nursing in Nigeria to practicing in Canada is a rewarding journey, but it does not come without challenges. Understanding these hurdles ahead of time prepares you to face them with confidence and find practical solutions.

1. Licensing Delays and High Costs

• The NNAS, NCLEX, and bridging programs can take months (sometimes years) and cost thousands of dollars.

• Solution: Plan financially before starting the process. Save ahead, and apply for scholarships or provincial support programs that help internationally educated nurses (IENs).

2. Cultural Adjustment

• Canadian healthcare emphasizes patient autonomy, informed consent, and strict adherence to protocols, which may differ from Nigerian practice.

• Solution: Take cultural competence courses, attend hospital orientation programs, and connect with other IENs who have successfully adapted.

3. Language and Communication Barriers

• Even though English is widely spoken in Nigeria, Canadian patients may have different accents, slang, or expectations in communication.

• Solution: Practice medical English through online courses, and consider shadowing opportunities or volunteering in Canadian healthcare settings to improve communication skills.

4. Limited Job Opportunities Before Full Licensing

• Without full RN registration, some employers may hesitate to hire.

• Solution: Apply for transitional roles such as LPN, PSW, or Graduate Nurse while you complete licensing requirements. This also gives you valuable Canadian experience.

5. Homesickness and Social Integration

• Many Nigerian nurses struggle with being far from family and adjusting to a new lifestyle.

• Solution: Join Nigerian communities in Canada, faith groups, or professional associations like the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA). Building a support system makes the transition easier.

6. Workplace Expectations

• Canadian workplaces expect punctuality, strict adherence to safety protocols, and continuous professional development.

• Solution: Be proactive, ask questions during orientation, and always keep up with required certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS).

7. Competition for Jobs in Urban Centers

• Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have high competition for hospital roles.

• Solution: Consider starting in rural or underserved areas where demand for nurses is higher. Many provinces offer incentives for nurses willing to work in these regions.

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9. Step-by-Step Roadmap: From Nigeria to Nursing in Canada

For Nigerian nurses, the journey to working in Canada can feel overwhelming. To simplify things, here’s a clear roadmap that outlines each step from start to finish:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
✔ Hold a valid Nigerian nursing degree/diploma.
✔ Have an active license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
✔ Meet minimum language requirements (IELTS Academic CLB 7 or CELBAN).

Step 2: Start with NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service)
✔ Create an NNAS account and submit required documents (transcripts, verification from NMCN, ID proof).
✔ NNAS reviews your credentials and sends a report to your chosen Canadian province.

Step 3: Apply to a Provincial Nursing Regulatory Body
✔ Choose the province where you want to work (e.g., Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia).
✔ Submit your NNAS advisory report to the provincial nursing college.
✔ The regulator will decide if you’re eligible to take the NCLEX-RN or need bridging education.

Step 4: Complete Required Exams
✔ NCLEX-RN – National licensing exam for nurses in Canada.
✔ Jurisprudence Exam – Required in provinces like Ontario, testing knowledge of laws and ethics.
✔ Language proficiency (if not already submitted).

Step 5: Bridging Programs (If Required)
✔ Some Nigerian nurses may be asked to complete additional coursework or supervised practice to align with Canadian standards.
✔ These programs vary by province and can take months to a year.

Step 6: Apply for Immigration/Work Permit
✔ Use pathways like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or work permits if sponsored by an employer.
✔ Nursing is an in-demand occupation, which increases chances of selection.

Step 7: Secure Employment
✔ Apply for jobs in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or rural areas.
✔ Consider transitional roles such as LPN or PSW while awaiting full RN registration.

Step 8: Begin Your Nursing Career in Canada
✔ Once fully licensed, you can practice as an RN.
✔ Continue professional development by joining the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) and attending workshops.

                                        Conclusion

A Rewarding Future Awaits Nigerian Nurses in Canada

For many Nigerian nurses, the dream of practicing in Canada is more than just about career growth—it’s about building a stable future, gaining international experience, and contributing to one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems.

While the process of licensing and immigration can feel long and challenging, the rewards are worth every step.

By understanding how Nigerian nurses can get license to work in Canada, you position yourself for success. From preparing your documents for NNAS, passing the NCLEX-RN, completing any required bridging programs, and navigating immigration pathways, each stage brings you closer to achieving your goal. The journey may take patience and persistence, but thousands of internationally educated nurses have walked this path and are now thriving in Canadian hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

If you remain committed, proactive, and open to learning, you can overcome the challenges of cultural adaptation, licensing costs, and job competition. Canada values skilled nurses, and your training and dedication are highly needed in its healthcare system.

Final Encouragement: Don’t let the hurdles discourage you. Every Nigerian nurse who has successfully transitioned to Canada started with the same doubts and questions you have now. With preparation, focus, and determination, you too can achieve your Canadian nursing dream in 2025 and beyond.

Helpful Resources for Nigerian Nurses Moving to Canada

To successfully navigate the process of licensing, exams, and immigration, having access to the right resources is essential. Below is a list of official and reliable links Nigerian nurses can use to guide their journey:

1. Credentialing and Licensing

• National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS): https://www.nnas.ca

• NCLEX-RN Exam Information (NCSBN): https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex

• Canadian Nurses Association (CNA): https://www.cna-aiic.ca

2. Provincial Regulatory Bodies

• College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO): https://www.cno.org

• British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM): https://www.bccnm.ca

• College & Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA): https://www.nurses.ab.ca

• Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN): https://www.nscn.ca

3. Immigration and Work

• Government of Canada – Immigration Pathways: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html

• Express Entry Information: https://www.canada.ca/express-entry

• Job Bank Canada (Nursing Jobs): https://www.jobbank.gc.ca