Immigration Announcement
Canada Launches PASS Program to Support Internationally Educated Nurses in Joining the Workforce
Canada’s healthcare system is getting a timely boost with the launch of a new support program for internationally educated nurses (IENs). Through the Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services Program (PASS), foreign-trained nurses who are approved for permanent residence now have access to personalized tools to help them transition smoothly into the Canadian workforce.
This federally funded initiative is free and available both before and after arrival, offering support for communication, licensing, mentorship, and job preparation. If you’re an internationally educated nurse planning your future in Canada, this blog walks you through how the PASS program works and why it could be a game-changer in your journey.
What Is the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses?
The PASS program is a targeted support initiative offered by the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses. It’s designed to help qualified nurses immigrating to Canada better understand and integrate into the country’s healthcare system.
There are two tracks available:
- Pre-Arrival Program: For those outside Canada who have received confirmation of permanent residence.
- Post-Arrival Program: For new immigrants already in Canada.
Both streams are completely free and include tailored services to help IENs become workforce-ready.
Eligibility for the PASS Program
To qualify for the PASS program, candidates must meet two essential requirements:
- Completion of a recognized nursing program in their home country (certificate, diploma, or degree required).
- Official approval to immigrate to Canada (proof from IRCC required).
If you don’t meet both criteria, you won’t be eligible for PASS services but can explore alternative provincial or community-based supports.
Key Features of the PASS Program for Internationally Educated Nurses
The PASS program offers a robust suite of services aimed at smoothing your transition into Canadian nursing practice:
1. 84-Hour Online Communication Course
Focused on professional language and communication skills tailored to Canadian healthcare, this includes:
- Nursing-specific vocabulary and abbreviations
- Patient interaction and inter-professional dialogue
- Documentation, reporting, and health teaching
- Therapeutic communication and conflict resolution
You’ll need a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 5 or 6 to enroll.
2. Mentorship Program
Connect with certified Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) mentors with 3+ years of experience in your field. Mentors are matched based on your specialty and intended province of settlement.
3. Webinars and Information Sessions
Live and recorded webinars provide information on:
- The Canadian healthcare system
- Provincial registration processes
- Labor market trends
- Non-licensed job roles as a stepping stone
4. Individual Case Management
You’ll receive one-on-one guidance from PASS case managers for:
- Navigating licensure and provincial requirements
- Finding settlement and career resources
- Employment referrals and interview prep
How to Apply for the PASS Program
You can register for the PASS program online through pass4nurses.org. Here’s how to get started:
| Step | Action |
| 1. | Create an online account on the PASS platform |
| 2. | Indicate whether you are inside or outside Canada |
| 3. | Complete the intake form with education and work history |
| 4. | Upload proof of nursing education and IRCC documentation |
Accepted Documents as Proof of PR Confirmation:
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- PR Visa (single-entry)
- PR pick-up letter or passport request from IRCC
- Invitation to pre-arrival services or medical request
Once submitted, a PASS case manager will review your application and get in touch with next steps.
Why the PASS Program Matters for Canada’s Healthcare Future
Canada’s healthcare system continues to face critical staffing shortages. At the same time, many skilled IENs face barriers when trying to enter the workforce. The PASS program for internationally educated nurses is a vital tool in addressing both these challenges. By offering free, tailored support before and after arrival, this initiative helps bridge gaps in licensing, communication, and employment, faster and more effectively. Whether you’re just beginning your immigration journey or already settling in, PASS could be your launchpad to a nursing career in Canada.
Helping Internationally Educated Nurses Thrive in Canada
For internationally educated nurses, the PASS program is more than a support service—it’s a doorway into the Canadian healthcare system. By providing tools for licensure, mentorship, and communication, PASS ensures that IENs are not just welcomed but set up for long-term success. If you’re a qualified nurse with Canadian permanent residence, the PASS program for internationally educated nurses might be your next smart move toward a rewarding career in Canada.
