As per Canadian law, internationally educated nurses must first meet registration and licensing standards to practice in Nova Scotia.
The province recently introduced an expedited licensing system for this category of Internationally Educated nurses. The measures which will come into effect on May 1, 2023, for international nurses in pre-designated jurisdictions are meant to help address the province’s currently understaffed health care system.
Become a Licensed nurse in Nova Scotia
Previously, Internationally Educated nurses applied to two organizations, the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) and the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN), to become a nurse in Nova Scotia.
Expedited Licensing Process
With the new changes, Registered nurses currently licensed in the Philippines, India, Nigeria, the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand or another Canadian province or territory are all eligible for immediate registration and licensure in Nova Scotia on passing a registration exam.
Requirements to get registered and licensed as a nurse in Nova Scotia?
Eligible Internationally educated nurses:
- Be licensed and in good standing in one of the designated countries.
- Must have theory and clinical instruction in adult medicine and surgery included in their nursing program
- Do not need to live in Nova Scotia when applying
What is the new Application process
According to the new process, internationally educated nurses belonging to a designated country will have to:
- Complete the regular Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) application
- Submit two pieces of identification
- Get Verification of Registration (VOR) from a regulatory body to be submitted to the NSCN
- Submit proof of English Language proficiency, if required
- Submit a Criminal Record check (CRC) to the NSCN
Applicants must then qualify for the NCLEX RN exam to be granted their license.
How much does an application cost?
The fees for the new system are still under review and will be rolled out before the new regulations come into play.
Previously, an NNAS application carried a fee of $650 and an application to the NSCN of $345.
