Nurses Registration Process - Nova Scotia

Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) wishing to practice in Nova Scotia can pursue licensure through one of two pathways. Depending on where you are currently licensed, the process may vary. Below is a breakdown of the expedited pathway for designated countries and the non-expedited pathway for others.

1. Expedited Pathway for IENs from Designated Countries

Expedited Pathway for IENs Licensed in These Countries

  • Philippines
  • India
  • Nigeria
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Canadian provinces/territories

Expedited Pathway steps:

  1. Submit Application to NSCN: Register with the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) and submit two pieces of identification (passport, driver’s license, etc.).
  2. Submit Verification of Registration (VOR): Arrange for VOR from your current regulatory body to be sent directly to NSCN, confirming your licensure in good standing.
  3. English Language Proficiency: If applicable, submit proof of English proficiency (via IELTS or CELBAN).
  4. NCLEX-RN: Nurses from designated countries who have passed the NCLEX-RN (or equivalent) are eligible for licensure without additional assessments or educational upgrades.
  5. Conditional Licensure: If the NCLEX-RN hasn’t been passed, you can apply for a conditional license, allowing you to work while preparing for the exam.

​This pathway significantly reduces registration time, enabling qualified nurses to begin practicing within weeks.

For more information, you can review the documents below:

  1. Expedited Licensing Process FAQ
  2. Additional Pathway Details

2. Non-Expedited Pathway for IENs from Non-Designated Countries

For nurses not from designated countries, the process involves a more detailed review and possible additional steps, including a Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) or a Bridging Program.

Non-Expedited Pathway Steps:

  • Create an Account with NNAS:
    • Register on the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) website at www.nnas.ca.
    • Submit required documents:
      • Nursing Education Transcripts: Sent directly from your educational institution.
      • Proof of Nursing License: Provided by your regulatory body to confirm your good standing.
      • Employment Verification: Your employer sends verification of your work experience directly to NNAS.
      • Proof of Identity: Submit notarized copies of your ID, such as a passport or national ID card.
  • Receive NNAS Advisory Report:
    • This report will assess:
      • Educational Comparability: How your education compares to Canadian standards.
      • Work Experience Evaluation: Review of your nursing roles and responsibilities.
      • Language Proficiency: If needed, results from IELTS or CELBAN exams will be included.
  • Submit to NSCN:
    • After receiving the NNAS report, submit it to NSCN as part of your application. NSCN will assess your qualifications and determine your path forward. You may be assigned to one of the following:
      • Competency-Based Assessment (CBA): If there are gaps in your education or clinical experience, you may need to complete a CBA, which evaluates practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
      • Bridging Program: If significant educational upgrades are needed, you’ll be required to complete a bridging program before licensure. For more detais, click here.

Three Licensure Routes for IENs

Once NSCN reviews your NNAS report and other documents, you will be placed in one of three licensure routes:

  1. Route 1 (Expedited): For nurses from designated countries who have passed the NCLEX-RN or equivalent, no additional assessments or education are required.
  2. Route 2 (Competency-Based Assessment): For nurses from non-designated countries, this route requires completing a CBA to assess clinical and theoretical competency.
  3. Route 3 (Bridging Program): For nurses needing significant educational upgrading, a bridging program will be necessary to meet Canadian standards before licensure​

Licensing Exams

All applicants must pass the required licensing exams to qualify for full licensure:

  • NCLEX-RN: For Registered Nurses (RNs). This test evaluates the ability to apply nursing knowledge in clinical settings.
  • CPNRE: For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), focusing on practical nursing skills and knowledge.

There is no limit on the number of times you can attempt the NCLEX-RN, but if you have not passed the exam yet, you will need to apply for conditional licensure while preparing to retake it​

Conditional Licensure

If certain requirements (such as passing the NCLEX-RN) are pending, NSCN allows for conditional licensure. This type of license allows you to practice under specific conditions while completing your final requirements. Conditional licenses are valid for up to 12 months, depending on your location and the conditions

Currency of Practice Requirement

To qualify for licensure, nurses must show they have practiced recently or completed recent education:

  • Have worked as a nurse within the last 3–5 years (minimum 320 hours).
  • Successfully passed the licensing exam within the last 3 years.
  • Completed a re-entry or bridging program if your practice is outdated

Language Proficiency

If your primary education wasn’t in English, you may need to demonstrate proficiency:

  • IELTS Academic: A minimum overall score of 7.0 is typically required.
  • CELBAN: Designed specifically for nurses​.

For more details on language proficiency requirements, visit the NNAS website at www.nnas.ca. and CELBAN website at www.celbancentre.ca

Costs and Document Submission Requirements

  • Application Fees: Fees apply for the NNAS processing, NCLEX-RN, and any required competency assessments.
  • Document Submission: All documents (e.g., transcripts, licensure verification) must be submitted directly from the issuing authority to NNAS and NSCN. This ensures that your application is processed smoothly