Are you a qualified nurse in Nigeria dreaming of working in Canada? Great news — Canada is actively hiring registered nurses (RNs) due to a critical shortage in its healthcare system. With competitive salaries, work visa sponsorship, and the path to permanent residency, this is your chance to start a new life in one of the world’s best countries for healthcare professionals.
Let’s explore how to become a Registered Nurse in Canada and why it’s one of the most in-demand and high-paying jobs for Nigerians in Canada.
🩺 Why Canada Needs Nurses in 2025
Canada’s healthcare sector is facing an aging population and increasing demand for medical services. As a result, nursing jobs in Canada for Nigerians and other foreign-trained professionals are growing fast. The Canadian government has made it easier to attract internationally educated nurses through streamlined immigration and work permit programs.
💰 Average Registered Nurse Salary in Canada
The average salary for a Registered Nurse in Canada is between CAD $75,000 and $100,000 per year depending on the province, years of experience, and area of specialization.
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Top-paying provinces include:
- Alberta: CAD $90,000 – $110,000/year
- Ontario: CAD $80,000 – $95,000/year
- British Columbia: CAD $85,000 – $100,000/year
✅ Steps to Work as a Nurse in Canada from Nigeria
Here’s a step-by-step guide for Nigerian nurses looking to work and live in Canada:
1. Get Credential Recognition
Apply through National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) to have your qualifications evaluated.
2. Take the NCLEX-RN Exam
This is a licensing exam required to work as a Registered Nurse in Canada.
3. Register with a Provincial Nursing Body
Each province has its own college of nurses (e.g., CNO for Ontario).
4. Apply for Jobs
Search for nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in Canada on platforms like:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed Canada
- HealthForceOntario
- Workopolis
5. Apply for a Canada Nurse Work Visa
Many employers support Canada nurse work visa applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or through the Express Entry system.
✈️ How to Migrate to Canada as a Nurse
The top immigration pathways include:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
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🔍 In-Demand Nursing Specializations
Certain nursing specialties are in especially high demand in Canada:
- Geriatric Nurses
- Mental Health Nurses
- Emergency Room Nurses
- ICU Nurses
- Pediatric Nurses
These roles often qualify for faster immigration processing and higher salaries.
🌟 Why Nigerians Should Consider RN Jobs in Canada
- 🇨🇦 Better Salary & Living Conditions
- 🛂 Visa Sponsorship Available
- 🏥 Advanced Healthcare Facilities
- 🏡 Path to Permanent Residency
- 📚 Opportunities for Career Growth and Further Education
🚀 Final Thoughts
If you’re a nurse in Nigeria with a passion for helping others and a desire for global opportunities, Canada is calling. The country offers high salaries, a stable work environment, and a clear path to permanent residency.
With thousands of openings and nursing jobs in Canada for Nigerians on the rise, now is the perfect time to begin your journey.
💡 Don’t wait — start preparing for your credential assessment and application process today!