How US Nurses Can Quickly Get Licensed and Work in British Columbia with Sara Telfer

Feb 25

How to Become a Licensed Nurse in British Columbia: The Surprisingly Simple Process for U.S. Nurses

Hi everyone, it’s Dr. Rob Beck, host of the Interesting MD Podcast. If you’re a U.S.-trained nurse or nurse practitioner and have ever fantasized about living and working in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, I’m here to tell you: this dream is more accessible than you think!

In a recent episode, I sat down with Sara Telfer, Deputy Registrar and Executive Director of Registration and Quality Assurance at the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). We went deep into the practical steps, barriers, and—spoiler alert—just how shockingly easy the process is compared to what physicians must endure. If you’ve been curious about moving north, consider this your ultimate how-to guide—straight from the top.

Why Is Canada So Appealing for U.S. Nurses?

We’re in a time when nurse burnout is at an all-time high. What struck me about British Columbia is not just the breathtaking scenery (and, yes, the skiing and year-round golfing!)—but how nurses here report real career satisfaction, professional autonomy, and solid work-life balance. There is a vast range of job opportunities, both in urban centers like Vancouver and Victoria, and rural or remote communities. If you’re craving a change, this could be it.

The Actual Process: Simple and Streamlined

One of the reasons I wanted to record this episode was because I get SO many emails from U.S. nurses asking me: “How do I get licensed in BC?” As someone who’s survived the labyrinthine process of physician licensing, I’m genuinely jealous of just how streamlined this path is for nurses.

According to Sara Telfer, the steps are straightforward:

Go to the BCCNM Website:
Start at www.bccnm.ca. This is your one-stop shop for applications, information, and support.
Create Your Profile and Apply:
Fill out an online application. You’ll need to provide proof of your education, information about your U.S. license/registration, and your nursing employment history from the past five years.
Submit Notarized ID Documents:
You’ll need to confirm your identity—think passport, driver’s license, etc. No overly picky requirements about where the notary must stamp your documents!
Employment Verification:
BCCNM will usually ask your most recent employer to confirm that you’ve practiced recently, indicate the hours worked, and confirm rehire eligibility.
Wait for Assessment (It’s Fast!):
The majority of verification is handled directly, thanks to BCCNM’s partnership with the U.S. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). They can quickly confirm your credentials and standing—no need to chase down official transcripts or go through a third-party credentialing service.

A few key details:

You do NOT need a job offer to apply for licensure (though having one may help with your immigration paperwork).
The process is now measured in days or short weeks, not months or years!
Once approved, your fee is even pro-rated daily—so you don’t pay for months you aren’t working yet.

Which U.S. Nurses Qualify?

Registered Nurses (RN) and Nurse Practitioners (NP): The process for RNs and NPs is nearly seamless. The scope and standards are recognized as equivalent across the two countries.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN): This path has a few more steps—additional information or time may be required, simply due to differences in scope and standards.

If you’re an NP, you’ll need to align with one of BC’s three recognized categories: family (all-ages), adult, or pediatric. U.S. specialties usually slot easily into these lanes.

What Should You Prepare Ahead of Time?

Here’s your pre-move checklist:

Get your notarized ID ready so you can upload it with your application.
Keep your employment contact handy for verification.
That’s it! Seriously, most of the usual licensing headaches (endless transcripts, multiple exams, credentialing agencies) do NOT apply.

Immigration: It’s a Separate (But Coordinated) Path

Registration with the BCCNM is provincial, while immigration is federal—these are two different processes, but they work together.

For immigration/job search support:

Visit www.nursingjobsbc.ca
Use their navigator service to explore job openings, get matched with employers, and find guidance on immigration/visa rules
Positions are available for all settings: inpatient, outpatient, urban, rural, and everything in between

Numbers Don’t Lie: BC is Ready for You!

As of early December (when we recorded), nearly 1,000 U.S. nurses and NPs had gained licensure in BC since April. There are over 2,000 more in process. BC isn’t running out of nursing jobs anytime soon, and there’s no cap on the number of newcomers. There are healthy waitlists for those who aren’t quite ready to move just yet!

My Biggest Takeaway: BC Values and Welcomes Nurses

I’ve worked both sides of the border—and I’m genuinely blown away by how BC’s system welcomes safe, competent, ethical, and caring nurses. Fees are fair, the process is fast, and real people are there to help. The BCCNM team is eager for feedback, always looking to improve, and genuinely happy to answer your questions.

So if you’re lounging around this holiday season, dreaming of a new adventure—and a breath of fresh (mountain) air—give the BC nursing pathway a serious look. It might just change your life.

If you have questions, want to share your own experiences, or need help getting started, check out BCCNM’s website or drop me a note. And if you want the nitty-gritty details, catch my full conversation with Sara Telfer on the Interesting MD Podcast.

Useful Links:

Thanks for reading, and thanks for all you do for our patients, our profession, and our world.

Stay curious,
Dr. Rob Beck

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Robert Beck