Nursing in Canada - FAQ

1. What is an interim license and how long is it valid?
   AN interim license is a temporary license which is only valid for nurses practising in Newfoundland and Labrador. This license is valid for eight months, allowing nurses to work while they prepare for the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE).
2. What is the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam?
   This exam measures the competencies that Canadian nurses have identified as necessary for safe and effective nursing practice. The CRNE questions are designed around the competencies required of entry-level registered nurses to deliver safe and effective nursing care. The CRNE is a paper and pencil exam offered in French and English. As of February 2008 and until February 2010, the CRNE will consist solely of multiple-choice questions. Once a nurse has past this exam they basically qualify to practice anywhere in Canada. In Newfoundland and Labrador there is a special program to help prepare Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) for the exam. Further information on the exam maybe found on the Canadian Nurses Association website www.cna.ca
3. How many chances do I get to pass the exam?
   Nurses get only one chance to pass the exam while practicing on an interim license. If a nurse with an interim license fails the exam, his/her license is revoked and they can work as an assistant care provider or personal care attendant. The person then has two more opportunities to write the exam. If, after three attempts, the person is not successful, they are required to complete an educational component.
4. What if English is not my first language?
   The ARNNL, which is the licensing body for Newfoundland and Labrador nurses, sets the requirements for the language test. All information on language testing is on the ARNNL website. The scores are recognized for 2 years from the date of the test.
5. Can candidates who have passed the NLEX and RN for the US apply for Canada and do they get any exemption?
   There is no exemption from the CRNE. They still need to take the exam. But the NLEX is very similar to the CRNE.
6. How will interview take place if I am in Europe?
   Do I have to fly to Canada? You will not be expected to fly to Canada for interview. If there are Regional Health Authorities (RHA) personnel available in your area (eg. for a recruitment or job fair), an interview may be conducted there. Otherwise a telephone interview will be arranged by the appropriate RHA.
7. What are salaries like in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   We have very good news. Due to recent negotiations, there have been significant increases in salaries. As of July 1, 2009 nurses with one or less years of experience will receive an annual salary of approximately $55,459, and nurses with six or more years of experience will receive an annual salary of $68,526. Nurses on the steps between one and six will receive salaries between these amounts. Over the next three years there will be an annual increase of 4% per year. By July 1, 2011 nurses on step one will receive $60,001 annually and nurse on step six will receive $74,295. All amounts are in Canadian dollars.