Nurses and Healthcare workers are needed in Ontario
Ontario Needs Nurses and Healthcare Workers
Ontario is heading toward a severe healthcare staffing crisis. By 2032, the province will require 33,200 additional nurses and 50,853 more personal support workers (PSWs). Moreover, Northern Ontario faces even deeper shortages due to long-standing recruitment challenges. Therefore, it’s important to understand the growing gaps in the system and the major opportunities this creates for healthcare professionals.
How Workers and Unions Are Responding
Unions representing healthcare workers have repeatedly warned the government about this issue. For years, they have raised concerns about understaffing and burnout across the system. However, according to Sharleen Stewart, President of SEIU Healthcare, the government attempted to keep the latest projections from the public.
As a result, unions fear that patient care will continue to decline if urgent action is not taken. Furthermore, they worry that the widening gap between staff and demand will push the system into deeper crisis.
Ontario’s Nursing Shortage: Year-by-Year Outlook
The shortage of nurses continues to escalate:
- 2022: 6,000 nurses needed
- 2023: Shortage increased to 10,110
- 2024: Demand rose to 13,200
- 2027: Projected gap of 20,700
- 2032: Expected shortage of 33,200 nurses
Clearly, the situation is intensifying each year.
Ontario’s PSW Shortage: Growing Even Faster
Meanwhile, the PSW shortage is expanding at an even faster pace:
- 2023: 30,900 PSWs needed
- 2024: Estimated demand reached 37,700
- 2027: Shortage expected to hit 48,977
- 2032: Projected need of 50,853 PSWs
Consequently, Ontario will continue to rely heavily on skilled immigrants to fill these essential roles.
How to Immigrate to Ontario as a Healthcare Professional
Because of these major shortages, Ontario is actively inviting healthcare professionals through targeted immigration programs. One of the strongest and most accessible pathways is the Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream, which works through Express Entry.
Eligibility Requirements for the Human Capital Priorities Stream
To qualify, applicants must:
- Create an Express Entry profile and keep it active.
- Meet eligibility under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class.
- Reach the required CRS score, which varies by draw.
- Show relevant work experience that matches Ontario’s labour market needs.
- Demonstrate settlement funds sufficient for your family size.
- Meet language proficiency requirements in English or French.
- Show intent to live in Ontario, which helps support your nomination.
Furthermore, this stream consistently selects candidates from healthcare backgrounds, making it a reliable pathway for nurses and allied health professionals.
How to Move to Ontario as a Nurse
To work as a nurse in Ontario, you must complete several steps:
1. Credential Assessment
First, submit your nursing educational documents to the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).
2. CNO Application
Next, the CNO will assess your credentials and may require additional courses or exams.
3. Pass the NCLEX-RN
All registered nurses must pass this exam before they can practice.
4. Obtain a Work Permit
Finally, secure the appropriate work permit to start your career in Ontario.
Additionally, you may qualify for permanent residence through Express Entry or a provincial nominee program.
Conclusion
Ontario’s growing shortages create significant challenges for the healthcare system. However, they also open the door for qualified international professionals who want to build stable, meaningful careers in Canada. By preparing early and navigating the right immigration pathway, healthcare workers can play a crucial role in strengthening Ontario’s future.
SPS Canada is ready to guide you, offering expert support for licensing, immigration, and settlement.
Get in touch with us
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
