Canada Launches Free PASS Program to Support Internationally Educated Nurses
- Mati Lio
- Jul 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 12
New National Support for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs)
Canada has introduced the Pre‑Arrival and Post‑Arrival Supports and Services (PASS) Program, a federally funded initiative designed to assist internationally educated nurses in transitioning into the Canadian healthcare workforce more smoothly. The program is completely free for eligible participants, covering both overseas applicants and those already in Canada .
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📌 What PASS Offers
The PASS Program is managed by the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses, a reputable not-for-profit organization that has long supported nurses trained outside Canada. This national initiative, which is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), provides tailored services in two stages as part of the federal government's broader effort to accelerate workforce integration for skilled newcomers:
Pre‑Arrival Support (for applicants outside Canada with permanent residency confirmation): Includes webinars, communication training, mentorship, and guidance on nursing regulation and employment in Canada .
Post‑Arrival Support (for IENs residing in Canada): Offers one-on-one case management, licensure exam prep, connection to settlement services, and career guidance .
Key benefits include mentorship by Canadian nurses, employment strategy support, and language/communication training—all delivered virtually allowing participants to begin preparing for their nursing careers in Canada from wherever they are.
🌍 Why It Matters
Canada continues to face a significant nursing shortage. In response, the PASS program aims to break down barriers faced by IENs, helping them become fully licensed and integrated into healthcare teams. It complements broader federal initiatives—such as $86 million invested in credential recognition for some 6,600 internationally educated professionals across health sectors .
It also aligns with funding provided to broader nurse support programs and residency projects coordinated by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN), which validate the collective effort to improve healthcare staffing across Canada.
In addition, the program complements regional initiatives—like nursing bridging programs offered by Canadian schools and associations—which all aim to improve licensing access and job readiness for newcomers.
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✅ Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for PASS if:
You completed a recognized nursing program outside of Canada
You have confirmation of permanent residence (CoPR) from IRCC
You are either currently living outside Canada or have recently arrived
This includes those preparing to immigrate and those already within Canada who still need support navigating the licensing and employment landscape.
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💡 How to Get Involved
1. Visit pass4nurses.org to register.
2. Choose your track: Pre‑Arrival (if abroad) or Post‑Arrival (if already in Canada).
3. Submit required documents (e.g. proof of nursing education, IRCC confirmation).
4. Once approved, you’ll receive virtual services like mentorship, webinars, and personalized support .
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🎯 Why I Celebrate This
At Different Shades of Life With Mati Lio, I believe in empowerment through information and opportunity. I celebrate initiatives that empower skilled newcomers. The PASS program is more than a training service—it’s a bridge between international education and Canadian opportunity. For many immigrant nurses, it’s the confidence boost and clarity they need to restart their careers and make a meaningful impact in Canadian communities.
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📬 Stay Connected
I’ll continue to share valuable updates, including:
Ontario-specific nursing pathways like Georgian College’s Transition to Practice program
Licensing insights across provinces
Application tips and mentorship stories from PASS participants
➡️ Want more information when you're ready to apply? Subscribe to newsletter to receive updates or send a message through email using the email address below, or through contact form —I am here to help you every step of the way.
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With optimism and support,
The Different Shades of Life With Mati Lio
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