Nurse Registration Process in Quebec: Ordre des Infirmières et Infirmiers du Québec (OIIQ)

If you are an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) seeking licensure in Quebec, the process involves credential evaluation, language proficiency requirements, and possibly additional competency assessments. French proficiency is mandatory for practicing in Quebec.

Step 1: Create an Online Account on OIIQ

The first step is creating an account on the OIIQ portal, which is only available in French. Proficiency in French is crucial for this process, as it will be used for all communications and documentation.

  • Create Your Account: Visit the OIIQ Official Website and complete the necessary forms for internationally educated nurses.
  • French Navigation: Since the portal is only available in French, ensure that you are comfortable navigating it or seek help from someone proficient in the language.

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Step 2: Submit Required Documents

Once your online account is created, you will need to submit several documents to verify your nursing credentials, education, and work experience.

Required Documents:

  • Transcripts: Submit transcripts from your nursing school detailing your courses, clinical hours, and subjects. These must be sent directly from your school to the OIIQ.
  • Nursing Licensure Verification: Provide verification of your nursing license from your home country or the last country where you practiced.
  • Proof of Identity: Submit notarized copies of identification, such as your passport or national ID.
  • Work Experience Verification: If applicable, provide employment history, including job descriptions and areas of specialization.

Translation Requirements:

Any documents not in French must be translated by a certified translator registered with the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec (OTTIAQ).


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Step 3: Acknowledgment of Receipt

After submitting all required documents, the OIIQ will issue an Acknowledgment of Receipt. This includes a file number that you will use for all future communications.


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Step 4: OIIQ Review and Next Steps

Once the OIIQ reviews your documents, they will send instructions regarding the next steps. This review can involve:

  1. Credential Evaluation and Assessment:

The OIIQ will assess your nursing education and training. If your education does not fully meet Quebec standards, you may need to:

  • Complete a bridging program at an accredited nursing institution in Quebec.
  • Take additional courses to fill in any educational gaps.
  1. Competency-Based Assessment:

If gaps in your clinical skills or experience are identified, you may be required to complete a Competency-Based Assessment. This assessment includes written exams and practical evaluations conducted in clinical environments to measure your nursing skills.


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Step 5: French Language Proficiency Requirement

Proficiency in French is mandatory for all nurses in Quebec. If your nursing education was not completed in French, you must demonstrate proficiency before receiving licensure.

  • French Language Test: Most candidates need to pass a French language test administered by the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF). More details can be found here.
  • French Language Waivers: You may be exempt from the French test if your nursing education was completed in French or you were educated in a French-speaking country. Documentation proving your proficiency will be required.

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Step 6: Follow OIIQ Instructions

After completing the credential review and any required language or competency assessments, OIIQ will provide further instructions. These instructions might include:

  • Licensure Examination: Passing the OIIQ’s licensing exam is required, which tests your knowledge and skills in alignment with Quebec’s healthcare standards.
  • Additional Training: If necessary, the OIIQ may require additional clinical hours or training before granting full licensure.

Final Registration with OIIQ

After meeting all the requirements and completing the necessary assessments and exams, you will be eligible for full licensure as a nurse in Quebec.

Key Points to Remember

  • French Proficiency: You must demonstrate fluency in French as a condition for licensure.
  • Document Translation: Any non-French documents must be translated by certified translators from OTTIAQ.
  • Mandatory Credential Review: The OIIQ will thoroughly review your education and professional experience to ensure it meets Quebec standards.

For more details, visit the OIIQ official website.