Updated 2026-11-10
Canada is a leading choice for Kenyan nurses who want to settle permanently. Nursing is regulated by each province, and permanent residence can come through Express Entry, which runs special rounds for healthcare workers. This guide covers the steps in order.
The National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) is the first step for internationally educated nurses. It checks your education, registration and experience and sends an advisory report to the provincial regulator you choose. The Expedited Service costs CAD 750 (about USD 525), with reports released within five business days once all documents arrive.
You then apply to the regulator in the province where you want to work. Outside Quebec, registered nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN; Ontario’s College of Nurses, for example, requires it of every RN applicant. The NCLEX costs CAD 360 for Canadian licensure, plus CAD 150 for international scheduling.
Every route above starts with the same thing: proof of your qualifications, registration and experience that an employer abroad can trust. A free Cazini Job Passport holds your verified work history, licences and references in one place you can share with any employer, at home or abroad. Create your free profile and apply to verified health jobs on the board.
The National Nursing Assessment Service assesses internationally educated nurses’ credentials for Canadian regulators. The Expedited Service costs CAD 750 (about USD 525).
Registered nurses outside Quebec must pass the NCLEX-RN; Ontario’s College of Nurses requires it of every RN applicant.
Yes. Express Entry runs category-based rounds for healthcare occupations including registered nurses, for candidates with at least 12 months of recent full-time experience.