Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced the Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services (PASS) Program to help internationally educated nurses successfully transition into Canada’s healthcare workforce. This federally funded program, delivered by the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses, is designed to remove barriers, enhance professional readiness, and connect nurses with meaningful employment opportunities in Canada.
The PASS program is available to nurses approved for immigration to Canada and those already in the country, offering personalized guidance and professional resources at no cost.
What Does the PASS Program Offer?
The PASS initiative is tailored to meet the unique needs of internationally educated nurses (IENs). It provides both pre-arrival and post-arrival support, ensuring a smooth transition from preparing for immigration to professional integration.
Key Services Include
- Webinars and Online Courses: Focused on Canadian healthcare systems, professional communication, and nursing-specific skills.
- Mentorship Opportunities: One-on-one guidance from experienced Canadian nurses to help IENs understand workplace expectations and career pathways.
- Personalized Employment Support: Insights into licensing requirements, job searches, and networking in Canada’s healthcare sector.
- Case Management and Support: Tailored guidance from experts familiar with the challenges newcomers face in regulated healthcare professions.
Who Is Eligible for the PASS Program?
To participate in Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services (PASS), internationally educated nurses must:
- Have graduated from a recognized nursing program outside Canada.
- Have approval from IRCC to immigrate to Canada (for pre-arrival services) or already reside in Canada (for post-arrival services).
- The program is offered free of charge, ensuring accessibility to nurses preparing for or beginning their careers in Canada.
Why This Matters for Canada’s Healthcare Sector
Canada faces increasing demand for skilled healthcare workers, particularly nurses, due to population growth and an aging demographic. The PASS program plays a crucial role in bridging workforce gaps by:
- Supporting IENs in meeting provincial and territorial licensing requirements.
- Helping nurses adapt to Canadian workplace culture and patient care standards.
- Accelerating pathways to employment in critical healthcare roles.
For newcomers, PASS not only reduces stress during resettlement but also creates direct links to professional success and economic stability.
Benefits for Nurses Choosing Canada
| PASS Program Feature | Benefit to IENs |
| Pre-arrival training | Learn about Canadian healthcare before landing |
| Post-arrival services | Continued support for licensing and employment |
| Mentorship & networking | Build connections with Canadian healthcare professionals |
| No program fees | Full access to resources without financial burden |
The PASS program for internationally educated nurses represents a forward-thinking approach to workforce integration in Canada’s healthcare sector. By providing tailored mentorship, language support, and licensing guidance, this program helps nurses build rewarding careers while strengthening Canada’s healthcare system. For those planning to move or recently arrived, PASS is a valuable opportunity to gain confidence and professional readiness before stepping into a nursing role in Canada.
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