Nursing jobs in Ontario, Canada for foreigners with visa sponsorship in 2025 are in high demand, opening doors to skilled professionals across the globe who want to take their healthcare careers to new heights. As Ontario faces a growing shortage of trained nursing staff, international nurses are stepping into the spotlight. And with visa sponsorship programs in place, getting hired and relocated has never been more attainable. Whether you’re a registered nurse from the Philippines, a midwife from Ghana, or a nurse practitioner in India, Ontario wants your skills—and it’s willing to help you get there.
Why Ontario Is a Global Hub for Nursing Careers
Ontario is Canada’s economic engine and home to some of the country’s most advanced healthcare facilities. From Toronto’s world-renowned teaching hospitals to rural health centers in Thunder Bay and Sudbury, the need for qualified nurses spans the province. According to projections from the Canadian Nurses Association, Ontario could face a shortfall of over 13,000 nurses by 2030—unless foreign-trained professionals fill the gap.
Several policies have made it easier for internationally educated nurses (IENs) to obtain employment and licensure in Canada. The Ontario government, along with federal partners, continues to streamline immigration processes and remove bureaucratic bottlenecks for health professionals. All of this makes 2025 an ideal year to make your move.
Types of Nursing Positions Available with Sponsorship
The nursing landscape in Ontario is diverse. Depending on your qualifications and experience, there are various roles you could step into:
1. Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs are responsible for assessing patients, developing care plans, administering medications, and providing health education. They typically work in hospitals, community health centers, or home care services. Employers prefer candidates with at least a diploma in nursing, though a bachelor’s degree gives you an edge.
2. Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)
An RPN focuses more on bedside care and usually works under the supervision of an RN or physician. RPNs are in high demand in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and clinics across Ontario.
3. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
With advanced clinical training, NPs are authorized to diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care independently. Ontario’s aging population and shortage of family physicians make NPs especially valuable.
4. Personal Support Worker (PSW)
Though technically not a nurse, PSWs work closely with nursing staff to assist patients in daily living. Many PSW positions now include training pathways into RPN or RN careers, and some employers offer visa sponsorship as a long-term recruitment strategy.
5. Mental Health Nurses
Ontario has made mental health a priority in recent years, leading to increased hiring of psychiatric nurses and those with mental health training.
Which Regions Offer the Best Opportunities?
While the Greater Toronto Area gets the most attention, nursing job opportunities for foreigners exist across the province:
Toronto
This city houses several major hospitals such as St. Michael’s, Sunnybrook, and Toronto General. They often lead the charge in international recruitment, especially for specialized nursing roles.
Ottawa
The capital city offers high-quality healthcare and plenty of positions in bilingual (English-French) settings, ideal for multilingual applicants.
London
Home to large teaching institutions like London Health Sciences Centre, London provides structured support for IENs and competitive salaries.
Hamilton
With hospitals like Hamilton Health Sciences and St. Joseph’s Healthcare, this city is often under the radar but brimming with opportunities.
Northern Ontario
Towns like North Bay, Timmins, and Sault Ste. Marie are classified as “high-need” zones, offering additional incentives, quicker hiring, and easier pathways to permanent residency.
Visa Sponsorship: Your Route to Working and Living in Ontario
If you’re a foreign nurse interested in Ontario, these are your top immigration and visa sponsorship routes:
1. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Employer Job Offer Stream
Ontario employers can nominate foreign nurses for permanent residency if the nurse receives a valid job offer. This is one of the fastest ways to secure a stable career and immigration status.
2. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Under the TFWP, employers can hire foreign nurses temporarily with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Many candidates transition to permanent residency via the Canadian Experience Class after gaining one year of work experience.
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
While it primarily serves eastern Canada, some Ontario employers partner with this federal initiative to fast-track hiring of health professionals under certain job categories.
4. Express Entry + PNP Nomination
If you’re already in the Express Entry pool, an Ontario nomination can boost your score by 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Steps to Becoming a Registered Nurse in Ontario
Before you can start working in Ontario, you must meet both professional and immigration standards. Here’s what you need:
Step 1: Credential Evaluation
Register through the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). You’ll be required to submit academic transcripts, proof of registration, identity verification, and employment history.
Step 2: Apply to the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
Once NNAS verifies your documents, you can apply to the CNO. Depending on your file, you may need to complete additional exams or bridging programs.
Step 3: Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English or French language proficiency. Accepted tests include:
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IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.5 overall, no band lower than 6.
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CELBAN: Often preferred for nurses due to its healthcare context.
Step 4: Jurisprudence and NCLEX-RN
To practice as an RN, you must pass:
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The Jurisprudence Exam (tests knowledge of legal and ethical nursing practice in Ontario).
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The NCLEX-RN or the CPNRE (for RPNs).
Step 5: Work Authorization
Secure a job offer and obtain a work permit through an employer sponsorship program or immigration stream.
Where to Apply for Sponsored Nursing Jobs
Finding nursing jobs with visa sponsorship doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are the best platforms to search:
Government Platforms
Hospital Networks
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Unity Health Toronto
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William Osler Health System
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Lakeridge Health
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North York General Hospital
Private Recruitment Firms
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Conexus MedStaff
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WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions
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GlobalHire
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Greenstaff Medical Canada
Job Portals
Salary Breakdown for Nurses in Ontario
Here’s a deeper look into what you can expect to earn annually in 2025:
| Nursing Role | Average Salary (CAD) | Max Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $75,000 – $95,000 | Up to $110,000 |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $105,000 – $125,000 | Up to $140,000 |
| Registered Practical Nurse | $55,000 – $70,000 | Up to $80,000 |
| Personal Support Worker | $38,000 – $50,000 | Up to $58,000 |
Night shifts, overtime, bilingual roles, and work in remote areas can significantly increase take-home pay.
Benefits of Working as a Sponsored Nurse in Ontario
It’s not just about the salary—Ontario’s healthcare system offers a range of benefits that enhance both your professional and personal life:
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Comprehensive Health Insurance for you and your family.
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Paid Vacation (usually 3–4 weeks annually).
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Pension Plans such as HOOPP (Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan).
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Educational Grants and Continuous Professional Development.
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Work-Life Balance with flexible scheduling options.
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Diversity and Inclusion – Ontario’s workforce reflects multicultural values.
Real Success Story: How One Nurse Built a Life in Ontario
Meet Maria, a critical care nurse from the Philippines. In 2023, she applied through a recruitment agency in partnership with a Toronto hospital. After completing her NNAS and CNO requirements, she began work under a TFWP visa. Today, she’s a permanent resident and recently sponsored her husband and two children. She now mentors other international nurses looking to follow a similar path.
Maria’s advice? “Don’t wait. Get your documents ready and start applying. Canada changed my life.”
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Here are some bonus strategies to make yourself a top candidate:
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Gain Experience in High-Need Specialties: ICU, geriatrics, mental health, and long-term care.
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Stay Updated with Continuing Education: Certifications in CPR, infection control, and chronic disease management are highly valued.
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Prepare a Canadian-Style Resume: Tailor your CV for each job application, focusing on skills, certifications, and measurable accomplishments.
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Ace the Interview: Familiarize yourself with Canadian nursing standards, patient-centered care principles, and cultural sensitivity practices.
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Follow Up: Many employers appreciate a follow-up email expressing continued interest.
Make 2025 the Year You Launch Your Nursing Career in Ontario
Nursing jobs in Ontario, Canada for foreigners with visa sponsorship in 2025 are not just employment opportunities—they’re pathways to a more stable and fulfilling life. With the growing demand for skilled nurses, favorable immigration pathways, and the support of reputable employers, there’s no better time to take the leap.
Whether you’re still in nursing school or have years of experience, Ontario has room for you. Start the process today by researching job openings, preparing your credentials, and reaching out to healthcare recruiters.
Your future in Canadian healthcare isn’t far away—it’s just one application away.