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IRCC Launches a Comprehensive Support Program for Internationally Educated Nurses Seeking Nursing Jobs in Canada

July 29, 2025

Nursing jobs in Canada

Canada reaffirms its dedication to building the healthcare workforce and preserving nursing jobs in Canada by introducing a new support program specifically for internationally educated nurses (IENs). Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses have unveiled the Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services Program (PASS)—a fully funded, integrated federal program to help skilled nurses make the transition into Canada’s healthcare system.

This program reaffirms Canada’s commitment to embracing internationally trained professionals and provides a seamless, well-supported route to successful integration and employment in the Canadian health care field.

What Is the PASS Program?

The PASS Program is an initiative support system developed to equip internationally educated nurses prior to and upon entering Canada. The program seeks to close the gap between international nursing qualifications and Canadian regulatory standards, thereby preparing newcomers as much as possible to start their careers and gain nursing jobs in Canada.

The CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses administers the program with federal funding assistance from IRCC. It is provided entirely at no cost to eligible participants and can be accessed through a flexible, web-based platform.

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What Support Does PASS Offer?

The PASS program is designed to deliver personalized and practical support to internationally educated nurses. Here’s what eligible participants can expect:

 1. Online Communication Courses

Realizing the value of good communication in healthcare facilities, PASS offers online courses to enable nurses to acquire professional-level English language skills that are a must for obtaining nursing jobs in Canada by concentrating on working communication and patient interaction in Canadian clinical settings.

 2. One-on-One Expert Mentorship

Members are provided with personalized advice from accomplished mentors who possess an in-depth familiarity of the nursing jobs in Canada. The mentors assist nurses during licensing, encourage them, and provide them with career guidance to enable them to reach their professional aspirations and get employment as nurses in Canada.

 3. Informative Webinars and Workshops

The program offers a wide range of live and recorded webinars covering topics such as the Canadian healthcare system, nursing regulations, job search strategies, and interview preparation. These sessions are designed to equip nurses with essential knowledge and confidence.

 4. Personalized Case Management

Each participant is assigned a case manager who provides individualized assistance throughout their journey, including licensing navigation, resume building, provincial requirements, and professional development planning.

Why Is This Program Important?

As Canada continues to experience heightened demand for healthcare professionals with a rising population and increasing healthcare requirements, the PASS program arrives at a timely juncture. It assists provinces and territories in effectively integrating competent professionals into the workforce and ensuring internationally educated nurses feel confident and adequately prepared for their roles. 

This program not only streamlines the hiring process and opens up smoother avenues to Canadian nursing careers, but also improves retention and long-term success for foreign nurses by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and professional network required to succeed in Canada.

Benefits for the Canadian Healthcare System

The PASS Program plays a strategic role in supporting Canada’s long-term goals for healthcare sustainability. By ensuring that internationally educated nurses are equipped to meet Canadian standards, the program helps streamline access to nursing jobs in Canada, fill critical workforce gaps, and accelerate the integration of skilled professionals into the healthcare system.

  • Address critical nursing shortages in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
  • Promote diversity and inclusion within the healthcare system.
  • Build a more resilient and responsive workforce.
  • Reduce the time to licensure and employment, allowing nurses to contribute faster and more effectively.
How Can We Help?

We understand the special issues faced by internationally educated nurses when they wish to be employed in Canada. With more than two decades of experience in Canadian immigration services, we assist experts, such as nurses, with professional guidance at every stage in their immigration process. Whether you are searching for nursing jobs in Canada or are going through the process of obtaining a license, we assist you in every step.

Our team can assist with:

  • Determining your eligibility for Canadian immigration
  • Helping you understand provincial licensing requirements
  • Connecting you with resources like the PASS Program
  • Offering visa and permanent residence support

If you want to know more details about IRCC Launches a Comprehensive Support Program for Internationally Educated Nurses Seeking Nursing Jobs in Canada you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.

Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.

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