Canada Launches Support Program for Internationally Educated Nurses

Canada has started a new program to help internationally educated nurses (IENs) join the Canadian healthcare system. The program is called the Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services Program (PASS).

What Is the PASS Program?

PASS is a free program that helps nurses trained outside Canada prepare for work here. It offers support both before nurses arrive in Canada and after they settle. The program is run by the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses.

Who Can Use This Program?

Nurses who finished their nursing education abroad and have permanent residence status in Canada can join. Nurses outside Canada can use the Pre-Arrival part, while those already in Canada can access the Post-Arrival services.

Program Details

• Pre-Arrival Stream: For nurses outside Canada waiting to immigrate, PASS helps you get ready before you move.
• Post-Arrival Stream: For newcomers already in Canada, PASS continues with settlement, licensure, and job support.

The program is virtual, free, and available across Canada. You access help online through the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses and the PASS portal.

What Help Does PASS Offer?

PASS gives nurses many types of help:

• Communication Courses: Online classes to learn the words and skills nurses use in Canada. This includes how to talk with patients and write reports.
• Mentorship: Experienced Canadian nurses guide new nurses.
• Licensing Help: Advice on how to get your nurse license in Canada.
• Job Help: Support with finding jobs and preparing for interviews.
• Webinars and Workshops: Online talks about Canadian hospitals, culture, and nurse rights.
• Personal Support: Each nurse gets help suited to their needs.
• Community Links: Referrals to other programs for newcomers.

How to Apply

1. Go to pass4nurses.org and fill in your details.
2. Provide your nursing school documents and proof of permanent residence or a letter from IRCC inviting you to access pre-arrival services.
3. A PASS case manager reviews your application and guides you on next steps.

Work Goals in the PASS Application

You must have a single, clear, and specific work goal, such as “become a licensed nurse in Ontario” or “work as a registered nurse in a Canadian hospital.” Vague goals like “work in healthcare” are not sufficient; you need to specify the exact nursing role or setting you are aiming for. The application asks you to describe this goal in detail.

Your goal should show how achieving it will help you become employed and independent in Canada’s healthcare system.

You need to list steps you will take to reach your work goal (such as language training, credential assessment, registration exams, or internships).

Training Details in the PASS Application

Type of Training Needed: You must identify the specific training, courses, or certifications you require. For internationally educated nurses, this could include:

• English or French language classes (often specialized for healthcare).
• Canadian nursing terminology and documentation courses.
• Bridging programs to meet provincial licensing requirements.
• Training for Canadian nursing exams.
• Professional communication and cross-cultural training.

Costs and Duration: The application often requests estimates of the training or required materials’ costs and the time needed for each step.

Other Supports: You may also need to detail additional services, like mentorship, resume workshops, or interview preparation.

After you submit these details in your online PASS application, a case manager reviews your plan to ensure your work goal is specific, realistic, and supported by the training you’ve listed. They’ll help you refine your plan if needed and guide you through the next steps.

Why the Program Matters

PASS helps shorten the time from arrival to starting work as a nurse in Canada, giving nurses the language, cultural, and professional tools they need to succeed. Demand for nurses is high across the country, so these supports are important for both newcomers and the health system.

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