Victoria – In a major boost to British Columbia’s public health system, a new streamlined credential recognition process is allowing nurses from the United States to begin working in B.C. within days—dramatically faster than the previous average wait of up to four months.
“American health-care professionals are increasingly drawn to B.C. as a place that supports science, protects reproductive rights and takes care of people no matter how much money they have in their bank account,” said Premier David Eby. “That’s why I’m delighted to see that our new, fast-tracked credential recognition is bringing in new U.S. nurses to strengthen our public health system and deliver better care for British Columbians, faster.”
Since the launch of this simplified process, applications from U.S.-trained nurses have increased by 127%. The BC College of Nurses and Midwives has removed the need for third-party assessments and now uses shared databases and systems with U.S. regulators to quickly verify applicants’ education, exam results, and work history.
“With the uncertainty and chaos happening south of our border, we have an opportunity to attract the skilled health-care workers our province needs,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “We are already seeing results with an increase in nurses applying to work in B.C. and help deliver care.”
Since March 2025, nearly 1,200 U.S. health professionals have expressed interest in working in B.C., including 573 physicians, 413 nurses, 133 nurse practitioners, and 39 allied health professionals. The Province is using a “Team BC” approach to recruitment, working with health authorities, regulators, and partners to support U.S. recruits with guidance and job placement through Health Match BC.
To further boost interest, B.C. will launch a targeted marketing campaign in June in high-interest areas like Washington, Oregon, and select California cities.
New arrivals will work in various settings, including primary care. One example is the Victoria Primary Care Network Allied Health Centre, which opened on April 24, 2025, at 1025 Johnson Street. This new facility supports team-based care and offers services such as pharmacy, nutrition, mental health, and Indigenous wellness.
“This new and upgraded allied health centre is the result of government, Island Health, and community partners coming together to grow team-based care capacity,” Osborne added. “It ensures patients get the care they need, close to home.”