Visa Options for European Nurses to Work in British Columbia (Canada)

07.09.24 10:49 AM

European nurses can work in British Columbia with these visa options:

  1. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program): Points-based system leading to permanent residency, often requiring a job offer.
  2. Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): British Columbia can nominate skilled workers for permanent residency, often requiring a job offer.
  3. Temporary Work Permit: Requires a job offer from a BC employer and can lead to permanent residency.

Nurses must also be registered with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) to practice.


For European nurses looking to apply for a work visa in British Columbia (BC), Canada, the costs in 2024 primarily revolve around the application process for the visa itself, as well as registration with the provincial regulatory body, the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).

  1. Visa Application Fee: The basic application fee for a Canadian work visa is CAD $155. This fee is required when submitting your visa application online​(

    ).
  2. Provincial Registration Fees: Typically, internationally educated nurses (IENs) need to undergo assessments and registrations that could cost over CAD $3,700. However, British Columbia has introduced financial supports to make it easier for IENs to join the healthcare system. As of 2024, the BC government is covering these assessment and application fees to reduce financial barriers for nurses​(

    )​(<div><span><a href="https://www.nursingjobsbc.ca/faq/" ;="" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span>Nursing BC</span></a></span></div>).
  3. Other Potential Costs: While the visa and initial assessment fees are covered, you may still incur costs related to gathering required documentation (e.g., medical exams, police clearance, and translation of documents). Additionally, any costs associated with language proficiency tests or additional education might be covered by bursaries, particularly if you meet specific eligibility criteria​(

    ).

This support reflects BC’s efforts to attract more healthcare professionals to the province by minimizing the financial hurdles for skilled workers like nurses.

Opportunities for European Registered Nurses in British Columbia (Canada)

British Columbia, Canada, offers European nurses high demand, competitive salaries, and excellent work-life balance.The province provides diverse opportunities in healthcare, stunning natural scenery, and a supportive environment for professional development and career growth.

Steps to work as a Registered Nurse in British Columbia (Canada) for European Nurses

You can edit text on your website by double clicking on a text box on your website. Alternatively, when you select a text box a settings menu will appear. your website by double clicking on a text box on your website. Alternatively, when you select a text box.

How European Nurses can register with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)

In order to work as a Registered Nurse in British Columbia (Canada), you must Register with the BCCNM.

Do you still have any questions? Join our Linkedin Group "European Nurse Recruitment ".