Indian nurses are in high demand globally due to shortages in aging populations. Both Canada and Australia offer strong pathways to permanent residency (PR), with nursing occupations prioritized in skilled migration programs. As of January 2026, Canada emphasizes category-based Express Entry draws for healthcare workers, while Australia has streamlined registration for internationally qualified nurses (effective April 2025) and maintains a points-tested system.

Canada: Pathway to Permanent Residency

Canada’s system is points-based via Express Entry (fast processing: 6-12 months for PR after invitation) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Nurses (NOC 31301 for Registered Nurses) benefit from healthcare-specific draws, often with lower CRS scores required. No job offer needed for many pathways.

Step-by-Step Process:

 1. Credential Assessment: Apply to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) for evaluation of your Indian nursing qualifications (B.Sc. Nursing or equivalent). Submit transcripts, registration proof, and identity documents. Cost: ~CAD 845. Report issued quickly (expedited options available).

2. Provincial/Territorial Registration: Use NNAS report to apply to a provincial regulatory body (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario). Pass language tests (IELTS/CLB 7 or equivalent) and the NCLEX-RN exam. Some provinces require bridging programs.
3. Language Proficiency: Achieve CLB 7+ in English/French (IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall).
4. Create Express Entry Profile: Enter the pool via Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) or Canadian Experience Class (if you have Canadian experience). Healthcare category draws prioritize nurses.
5. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): High CRS scores (age, education, experience, language) lead to ITAs in category-based rounds.
6. Apply for PR: Submit police clearance, medical exam, and proof of funds. Processing: 6 months.
7. Alternative: PNPs: Provinces like British Columbia or Ontario have healthcare streams; nomination adds 600 CRS points.

2026 Updates: Healthcare remains a priority category. New physician-focused measures (early 2026) may indirectly benefit nurses via increased healthcare intake.

Pros for Indian Nurses: Faster PR (often without job offer), multicultural society with large Indian community, universal healthcare. Cons: Cold climate, complex provincial licensing, potential bridging education.

Australia: Pathway to Permanent Residency

Australia uses a points-tested system (minimum 65 points) via SkillSelect. Nursing is on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), eligible for independent or sponsored visas. PR possible via Subclass 189 (independent), 190 (state-nominated), or employer-sponsored.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Self-Check and Qualification Assessment: Use NMBA/AHPRA self-check tool. From April 2025, streamlined pathways for nurses from comparable jurisdictions (not India directly, but experience helps).
2. AHPRA Registration: Register with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Nursing and Midwifery Board (NMBA). Pass English test (IELTS 7.0/OET B). Indian nurses typically complete Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA): MCQ (NCLEX-RN adapted) + OSCE exam. 2025 updates reduced timelines to 1-6 months.
3. Skills Assessment: Positive assessment from Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).
4. English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall (no band <7) or equivalent.
5. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Via SkillSelect; score points (age: max 30 for 25-32; experience: up to 20; education: 15-20).
6. Receive Invitation: State nomination (190) or independent (189). Regional options (491) faster transition to PR.
7. Apply for Visa: Submit health checks, police clearance. Processing: 6-12 months.

2026 Updates: Streamlined AHPRA registration continues (faster for experienced nurses). Priority processing for health occupations; nursing shortage projected at 85,000+.

Pros for Indian Nurses: Higher salaries in some regions, better weather/work-life balance, direct PR visas. Cons: Points competition high, exams/OSCE required, higher living costs in cities.