canada travel nursing

BECOME A WORKATION WARRIOR

INTERESTED IN WORKING IN REMOTE PRACTICE NURSING STATIONS? check it out here!

Our beautiful country offers so much to see and do. Each Province, each region and each community has its own adventure. Travel nursing opens the door to these amazing experiences.

Friendships

Nursing is such a great community and travel nursing connects you with others across Canada.

Build personal and professional friendships that can last your career or your lifetime.

If you want to grow in your career through different experiences, travel nursing connects you with healthcare teams across Canada. You can learn, grow and adapt, providing quality healthcare solutions.

TravelNurse  is your connection to thousands of nursing jobs across Canada.

TravelNurse offers you the freedom you need to make your travel dreams come true, without forcing you to leave your career or give up your income. With competitive wages, travel and housing paid for, it is finally possible for you to take advantage of this time in your life where you’re able to explore.

Interested in working in Remote Practice Clinics –  Our Clinical Department has put together a bit of information about what working in remote stations is like.   Check it out here!

TravelNurse offers you the freedom you need to make your travel dreams come true, without forcing you to leave your career or give up your income. With higher-than-average wages and travel and housing paid for, it is finally possible for you to take advantage of this time in your life where you’re able to explore.

YOUR ADVENTURE

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Travel  Nursing

See the country while doing what you love! Excellent compensation, paid travel and accommodations and much more!

Assignment Locations

Locations that range from rural/remote hospital or clinic settings to big city experiences.

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Travel Nursing in Canada!

Where do YOU want to travel nurse?

With our 25 years of experience we offer you the incredible freedom to explore Canada. From Bella Bella in BC to Goose Bay in NL we offer the greatest number of contracts to choose from.

Why Travel Nurse

How It Works

25 years of pairing dreams and destinations!

Trust the experience that comes with time.

Apply Today. It Takes 2 Min.

Welcome to Canada's most experienced travel nursing company!

Our mission is to enhance the enjoyability and comfort of your travel, nursing contract, and Canadian adventure to the fullest extent possible.

You are regarded as a highly valued team member, and we provide insurance and liability coverage to ensure your peace of mind.

25 Years and Counting

Founded in January 1999

2,109 Nurses Placements

857,709 Hours Of Care

43 Support Staff

We're here to help you!

Travel Nursing

As a travel nurse in Canada, you can pursue your travel dreams while ensuring a stable income. These positions provide above-average wages and full coverage for travel and accommodation expenses, enabling you to freely explore and wander.

With an extensive 25-year experience under our belt, rest assured that we will be dedicated to supporting you throughout the entire duration of your contract.

Let's Get Started

How long are contracts?

Most contracts last 6-8 weeks, though some travel jobs may be longer. Many contracts are renewed if the traveler and the hospital are in agreement. Some travel nurses extend multiple times, when the job is a perfect fit!

Do you provide insurance?

Absolutely, you have comprehensive coverage throughout your contract. At Select Medical Connections, we consider you part of our team, and we treat you accordingly.

How long is the application process?

Traditionally, seasoned travel nurses start looking 6 to 10 weeks before they want to start their next travel assignment. If you know you’re ready to travel or will be soon, we recommend filling out an application so you’re prepared to seize the right opportunity.

See all the FAQ's.

We Have Contracts In:

Yukon - British Columbia - Alberta -Saskatchewan - Manitoba - Ontario - Newfoundland and Labrador

New Brunswick - Nova Scotia

What our nurses have to say.

We highly value and appreciate the reviews from our dedicated travel nurses. Their valuable feedback helps us continuously improve the experiences of our nursing professionals. We are sincerely grateful for their time and effort in sharing their thoughts, which aids us in understanding their needs and preferences.

RN in Saskatchewan

I had the opportunity to work as a travel nurse in Regina, SK. It was a great way to get a taste of the life on the prairies. I really enjoyed the feel of working in a smaller hospital setting and met some great people along the way. My experience with Select Medical was excellent!

RN in Newfoundland

Currently on my first contract in Saint Anthony Nfld. My recruiter, Callie, is very responsive, offered me my next contract closer to home and has me all booked in well in advance! Very appreciative to have had this experience and looking forward to my next!!!

I’ve been with Select Medical for about a year and a half now and my recruiter, Andrew has been kind, prompt and supportive throughout all of my contracts. It’s an incredible opportunity and I’ve met some lifelong friends along the way.

LPN in Nova Scotia

2nd contract in Nova Scotia, will definitely going back again. Travel nursing gives me opportunities to be more proactive! I get to learn new skills and techniques while I get to explore the beauty of unfamiliar places I haven’t been to.

Love taking long walks on my days off! I love meeting new people and exploring new places during my free time! Who doesn’t love getting paid to travel l?!

RN in Nova Scotia

Met up with a travel nursing friend from the West Coast to explore the East Coast while on contract at different hospitals in the region!

RN in Manitoba

Select Medical Connections has been an amazing experience. The staff are extremely accommodating and the people I’ve met are unforgettable. I had the opportunity to earn lots of money while exploring new places, which is unheard of in most professions. If you want to upgrade your nursing career, then you definitely need to try travel nursing with Select Medical Connections.

My experience with Select Med Connections was one of the best experiences of my 22 years of nursing! My recruiter was so enthusiastic and really paid attention to my prerequisites before accepting my position, so I would get the most out of it!! I cannot wait to do it again!! Hats off to Select and to Chantal!

My recruiter has always been there at every turn. At the beginning of a contract opportunity, I am always matched up correctly and accurately for the hospital contract. When I arrive on contract, there are no surprises, because Amanda has carefully briefed me on the expectations that are required of me. She makes regular inquiries as to how the contract is going. I look forward to working with Amanda again and will stay with Select because of her.

Even more testimonials from our nurses!

We are trusted by Health Authorities and Health Care Companies nationwide.

Why you should travel nurse.

This country is phenomenal! Get out and see it while you can. From free travel and accommodation to meeting like minded people, let's explore the advantages of travel nursing together.

More Why You Should

How we get you started.

With our 25 years of experience in contract nursing, we proudly stand by your side. When you are on contract we will be with you all the time.

More How We Help

Apply & Start Your Travel Journey

One of our recruiters be in touch within 48 hours.

Apply Now. It Only Takes 3 Min!

Fall in love with nursing again.

The burnout rate in nursing has never been higher. You don't have to feel helpless or frustrated. Control your career like never before, with travel nursing.

Canadian Travel Nurse Agency

We connect nurses with jobs that fit like a glove...

While also providing true community & strong support..

Northern Med is a preferred Canadian travel nurse agency, proudly based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We specialize in recruiting quality healthcare professionals and connecting them to Canadian communities, from coast to coast.  In addition to rewarding assignments, exceptional wages, and paid travel + accommodations, NMC fosters a strong sense of community and ensures each member of the team is supported at every stage of their travel nurse journey.

Your happiness matters.

We don't simply place nurses wherever there's a need & hope it works out. we match nurses to their ideal positions - which means happy nurses providing exceptional levels of patient care..

As a point of pride, Northern Med spends an incredible amount of time ensuring our nurses are placed in positions that fit them perfectly.  Unlike most agencies during the matching process, we evaluate placements through a thorough lens; considering things like professional competency & skill, family needs, geographical preferences, work-life balance requests, and a number of other metrics. The result is happy nurses who excel in their jobs and provide exceptional levels of care.

Hear from our nurses across the country...

We are so proud of our Northern Med nurses; super heroes doing incredible work in their field.

I would recommend travel nursing to anyone and would highly recommend working with Northern Med!

"With my first travel nursing contract in Gander, Newfoundland complete - I can honesty say that I have made so many friendships and connections here that will last a lifetime! 🤍 I had the opportunity to work in a new place and to explore a lot on my days off, independently and with friends. I also got to visit a piece of France with my amazing grandparents. Both staff and travel nurses alike have been so good to me and welcomed me to this amazing province. You are all incredible people, and have made this experience the best in the world - I can’t wait to come back! A huge thank you to Northern Medical Connections for being so amazing and supportive through this entire process - you truly made this the BEST experience! I would recommend travel nursing to anyone and would highly recommend working with Northern Med! On to my next adventure! ✌️✈️”

"Everyone at Northern Med has been so kind and they really do care!"

“I'm very happy I decided to take a contract with Northern Med! The staff that I have interacted with have all been so kind and they really do care and make an effort to check in with you. Whenever issues came up, they were quick to address the situation. I loved Nova Scotia so much that I actually extended my contract! I made lots of friends and was able to explore a part of Canada that I probably wouldn't have if it wasn't for travel nursing.”

"I remember always being told my full-time line was the end goal as a new nurse, yet I still felt there had to be more out there for me."

“One year ago, I took a leap of faith. I remember always being told my full-time line was the end goal as a new nurse, yet I still felt there had to be more out there for me. I quit my line, gave away my belongings, signed my first contract and haven’t looked back since. Life has always been good to me, but this season of full-time travel nursing has been unparalleled. Big thanks to NMC for being such a supportive agency and for proving that a fulfilling career and a beautiful adventurous life should exist simultaneously. We don’t need a vacation from a life like this.”

Don't burn out. Burn bright.

Northern Medical Connections (NMC) is a preferred Canadian travel nurse agency, proudly based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

© 2015 Northern Medical Connections Inc.

Who Made This Site?

Travel Nursing from Canada!

Your international travel nursing ticket to the usa.

Want to join fellow Canadian nurses working in the USA?

Travel nursing from Canada to the US is easier than you might think. At Aya Healthcare, we handle the paperwork so you can focus on what you do best: taking care of patients. We’ll take care of everything else.

And we mean EVERYTHING! We don’t think coming to the USA should cost you a lot of time or money. That’s why we offer this concierge service to make things as easy as possible.

Become a Canadian Nurse Working in the USA

International travel nursing can be intimidating. That’s why we walk you through each step of the process.

What’s the timeline for travel nursing from Canada? The short answer is around six months (with Aya). That’s around half the time it would take you to do it on your own or go through other Canadian travel nursing agencies. Our experts walk you through the process and review your paperwork for errors before you submit. We get you there faster by removing the barriers that slow your application.

As a Canadian nurse moving to the USA, here’s what you’ll need:

VisaScreen certification through CGFNS

CGFNS evaluates your education/credentials and verifies that you can work in the US by granting the VisaScreen certification. If you qualify for our licensure project (see right) we'll reimburse your $540 application fee once you start working. And more good news ... we can take care of the following requirements simultaneously. Again, the ENTIRE process should only take six months.

US State License

You’ve applied for VisaScreen certification. Great job! Now you need a US state license (we’ll pay for this too if you qualify). This can take anywhere from 4-12 weeks to be issued. Again, we can work on your license while you’re waiting for your VisaScreen certification.

Book a travel nursing job!

Now, you’re ready to go. Because you’re smart, you’re working with an experienced Canadian travel nursing agency. As we say in the US, “this isn’t our first rodeo.” We have deep relationships with facilities across the country. We know which healthcare facilities will book you with some of the paperwork pending.

Border crossing documentation

Congrats! You got a job and it’s time to join your fellow Canadian travel nurses in the USA! We’ll walk you through what you need to bring. Gather that documentation and cross the border within 10 days of your contract start date. Request TN Status (AKA the TN Visa for Canadian nurses) at the border. Again, we’ll help with this!

Apply for a US Social Security Number

Once you’re in the US, it’s time to apply for your social security number. This number allows you to work in any state. You should get your social security card in the mail in 4-8 weeks. This won’t affect your timeline. You can work at certain facilities while waiting for your social security card.

(Offices are currently closed due to COVID-19. This doesn't affect your ability to work.)

If any of this sounds complicated, don’t worry! We send you detailed instructions for each step of the process, track the status of your application and provide updates along the way. We have an expert licensing team dedicated to Canadian nurses. They can answer questions and provide guidance. Contact them anytime!

Start Travel Nursing in the US Today!

Here’s what it takes to qualify for Aya’s licensing project:

• RN degree from a Canadian nursing program
• At least 2 years of experience in your specialty
• Proof you passed the NCLEX

If you don't fit these criteria, don't be discouraged. Get in touch with us, we're still happy to help any way we can.

Meet travel nurses in the USA

Aya Healthcare is the preferred supplier at multiple facilities in North Carolina, New York, Minnesota, Washington and Texas. We can get you licensed quickly in those states. While you’re working your first contract (which will likely last 13 weeks or longer) we’ll help you get licensed in any state of your choosing!

We have a deep understanding of the units we staff and of fluctuations in census across the country. Essentially, we know when facilities will need RNs. We can book you assignments months in advance and ensure the units you choose are a good fit for your skill set and personality. These career planning services are just part of the package you get with Aya Healthcare.

Aya is your travel insurance policy.

International travel nursing opens the door to many wonderful experiences, but anytime you travel you may encounter bumps in the road. Things happen. When they do, we’ll be there.

We have 9,000+ open RN assignments across the country. (If you ever have an assignment cancelled, we’ll find you another #JobSecurity!) If you miss your flight and get stranded at the airport, if you have a clinical issue on the job, if you’re sick and can’t make a shift … never fear. We’ll be here. 24/7. We’ll send you an emergency contact number so you can reach us at all hours of the day or night.

Don’t want to go it alone? No problem. Bring a friend (or friends). If you ever get lonely as a Canadian nurse working in the USA, refer someone! With our smooth, easy process for getting you ready to work stateside, feel free to entice as many Canadian RNs as you’d like to join you on your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you skipped the top of this page you may not know, so we’ll say it again … absolutely! Apply now and we’ll help get you started.

Pretty easy if you stick with us. We’ll walk you through the process and make sure everything goes smoothly. We have an expert team who’ve helped hundreds of Canadian nurses working in the USA. They can help you too.

In general, you’ll make more as a travel nurse in the United States than as a permanent nurse in Canada. Pay depends on where you go: states and specialties pay differently. Your recruiter (we’ll assign you one when you apply) can help you maximize your pay!

Good question! That’s up to you. You can either choose housing that we provide or take a housing stipend and find a place on your own. If you prefer the stipend, our housing team can provide you with resources that should make your search easy and, dare we say, enjoyable?

We’d love to! We bet we’ve answered a lot of your questions higher up on this page. But, if you have a question that isn’t answered on this page or would just like to talk things through, contact us and we’ll be in touch.

Aya Healthcare will provide your TN letter if you book an assignment with us. Travel nursing in the US here you come!

We might be biased, but we think you’ve found us. 😊 Check out our reviews if you’re looking for external corroboration that we’re one of the best travel nursing agencies for Canadian nurses.

You’ll have an entire Aya support team to help with each step of your journey. Your recruiter is your first point of contact (he or she is your guru, your guide.) We’ll also assign you housing , payroll and licensing experts — plus a travel experience specialist to make sure you’re happy with everything, down to the tiniest details of your assignment.

There are many reasons Canadian nurses work in the USA. Some are looking to expand their clinical skill set by working in new facilities, others want to travel to new and exciting places and some are looking to make great money. Some want all the above! Whatever your reasons for international travel nursing, we’re more than happy to help.

Start Your USA Travel Nursing Adventure

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Canadian Profession Path

Travel nursing in canada: what to know.

Last Updated on January 28, 2024

Introduction

A. what is travel nursing.

Travel nursing involves qualified nurses taking short-term assignments across various locations, meeting healthcare demand fluctuations.

B. The Surge in Travel Nursing Popularity in Canada

• Canadian Demand: With healthcare demands surging, Canada embraces travel nursing for flexible staffing solutions.
• Career Growth: Nurses are drawn to diverse experiences, career growth, and competitive compensation in the Canadian landscape.
• Lifestyle Appeal: The allure of exploring Canada while contributing to healthcare fuels the rising trend.
• Flexibility: Travel nursing offers a unique flexibility, allowing professionals to balance work and personal adventures.

In this section, we’ll unravel the dynamics of travel nursing in Canada, providing essential insights for prospective nurses.

From understanding the nature of travel nursing to exploring its perks, this guide is your gateway to a fulfilling Canadian nursing journey.

Requirements for Travel Nursing in Canada

Travel nursing in Canada offers exciting opportunities for healthcare professionals looking to broaden their horizons and gain valuable experience in diverse healthcare settings. However, aspiring travel nurses must meet certain requirements to be eligible for these positions.

A. Licensure and Registration for Nurses in Different Provinces

One of the primary requirements for travel nursing in Canada is obtaining a nursing license from the province you intend to work in. Each province has its own regulatory body responsible for granting licensure and ensuring nurses meet the necessary qualifications. It is crucial to research and understand the specific licensure requirements of the province you are interested in.

B. Documentation Needed to Apply for Travel Nursing Positions

When applying for travel nursing positions, documentation plays a significant role. A comprehensive resume that highlights your nursing qualifications, skills, and experience is essential. Reference letters from previous employers that speak to your clinical competence can also strengthen your application. Additionally, ensure your certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and specialty certifications are current and valid.

Valid identification documents, such as a passport or driver’s license, will be required for identification and background checks. Travel nursing agencies or facilities may also have their own paperwork and forms that need to be completed. Familiarize yourself with these requirements and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.

C. Immunization Requirements and Health Screenings

Immunization requirements and health screenings are crucial for travel nurses in Canada. It is essential to have up-to-date immunizations as per provincial and employer guidelines. immunizations needed include measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza. Depending on the province, a tuberculosis (TB) test or chest X-ray may also be required. Additionally, prepare to undergo a pre-employment health screening to ensure you are fit to work as a travel nurse. Some employers may also require evidence of negative drug and alcohol screenings.

In essence, travel nursing in Canada offers exciting opportunities, but it is essential to meet the necessary requirements. Obtain the appropriate nursing license for the province you wish to work in, gather all required documentation, and ensure your immunizations and health screenings are up to date. By fulfilling these requirements, you can embark on a rewarding travel nursing journey in Canada.

Read: A Day in the Life of a Canadian Pharmacist

Benefits of Travel Nursing in Canada

A. higher pay rates compared to permanent nursing jobs.

• Travel nurses in Canada enjoy higher pay rates compared to those in permanent nursing jobs.
• This allows them to earn a higher income while gaining valuable experience.
• The increased compensation reflects the travel nurse’s willingness to work in different locations.
• It also offsets the costs associated with travel and accommodation.
• Overall, higher pay rates make travel nursing an attractive option for healthcare professionals.

B. Flexibility to Choose Assignments and Locations

• One of the biggest advantages of travel nursing in Canada is the flexibility it offers.
• Travel nurses have the freedom to choose their assignments and locations.
• They can explore different cities and provinces, experiencing the diversity of the country.
• This flexibility allows nurses to build a dynamic and fulfilling career while satisfying their wanderlust.
• Whether it’s working in vibrant urban centers or serene rural communities, the choice is theirs.

C. Opportunity to Gain Diverse Experience and Expand Professional Network

• Travel nursing in Canada provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain diverse experience.
• Nurses can work in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics and long-term care facilities.
• By being exposed to different environments, they enhance their skills and broaden their knowledge.
• Moreover, travel nursing allows healthcare professionals to expand their professional network.
• They can connect with colleagues from different backgrounds, enhancing their career prospects.

D. Enhanced Work-Life Balance

• Travel nurses in Canada often enjoy enhanced work-life balance compared to their permanent counterparts.
• They can schedule their assignments to accommodate personal commitments and time off.
• This flexibility allows them to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.
• Travel nursing promotes a sense of adventure and freedom, enhancing overall job satisfaction.
• Additionally, the ability to take breaks between assignments allows for personal rejuvenation and relaxation.

E. Access to Benefits and Perks

• Travel nurses in Canada also have access to various benefits and perks.
• These may include health insurance, housing allowances, welcome bonuses, and travel reimbursement.
• Some agencies provide retirement plans, continuing education opportunities, and professional development benefits .
• These additional benefits contribute to the overall appeal of travel nursing.
• Nurses can enjoy a range of perks that are not typically offered in permanent nursing positions.

In summary, travel nursing in Canada presents numerous benefits for healthcare professionals. With higher pay rates, flexibility to choose assignments and locations, the opportunity to gain diverse experience, enhanced work-life balance, and access to various benefits and perks, it is an attractive career option. Travel nursing allows nurses to explore different cities and provinces while building a valuable professional network. It offers a dynamic and fulfilling career path, enabling healthcare professionals to make a difference in diverse healthcare settings.

Read: Day in the Life of a Canadian Doctor: Real Stories

Challenges of Travel Nursing in Canada

Travel nursing is an exciting career that allows healthcare professionals to explore different cities and regions while providing essential care. However, like any job, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. In this blog section, we will explore some of the challenges that travel nurses may face in Canada.

A. Frequent relocations and adjusting to new environments

• Travel nurses are constantly on the move, relocating to different healthcare facilities in various cities or provinces.
• Each new location brings with it the need to adapt to a different work environment and familiarize oneself with new policies and procedures.
• These frequent relocations can be mentally and emotionally draining, as nurses have to constantly adjust to new surroundings, making new friends, and establishing a support network.

B. Limited job security and stability

• Travel nursing contracts usually have a fixed duration, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
• Once a contract ends, nurses may face uncertainty and have to look for a new assignment.
• This lack of job security can be stressful, especially if nurses have financial obligations or are the primary earners in their families.

C. Potential lack of support from colleagues and familiarity

• When working as a travel nurse, building a support network can be challenging, as nurses are constantly moving from one location to another.
• Travel nurses may not have the same level of rapport with colleagues and may miss the familiar faces and comfort of working in a long-term position.
• This lack of support and familiarity can affect the overall work experience and make it harder to cope with the demands of the job.

It’s important for travel nurses to remember that challenges are a part of any job, and they can be overcome with the right mindset and support. By focusing on the positives and embracing the adventure, travel nursing in Canada can be an incredibly rewarding career choice.

In short, the challenges faced by travel nurses in Canada include frequent relocations, limited job security, and potential lack of support. However, by taking proactive steps and maintaining a positive attitude, travel nurses can navigate these challenges and thrive in their careers.

Read: How to Become a Doctor in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

See Related Content: Interview: Veteran Canadian Med Tech

Finding Travel Nursing Positions in Canada

Are you a nurse looking for exciting opportunities to travel and work in Canada? Travel nursing might be the perfect career choice for you! In this blog section, we will guide you through finding travel nursing positions in Canada.

A. Resources and websites specializing in travel nursing jobs

When it comes to finding travel nursing positions in Canada, there are several resources and websites that specialize in connecting nurses with travel nursing jobs. Here are some of the top platforms to explore:

• Nursing agencies like Canadian Travel Nurses : These agencies focus on matching nurses with travel assignments across Canada.
• Nursing-specific job boards such as CanadianNurse.com : These online platforms list various nursing positions, including travel opportunities.
• General job search websites like Indeed and LinkedIn : These platforms often feature travel nursing positions posted by healthcare facilities and agencies.

It’s essential to regularly check these resources and websites for new opportunities, as travel nursing positions in Canada can be highly competitive.

B. Building Relationships with Travel Nursing Agencies

To increase your chances of landing a travel nursing job in Canada, it’s crucial to build strong relationships with travel nursing agencies. Here’s how you can do it:

• Research and identify reputable travel nursing agencies that specialize in Canada.
• Submit your application materials, including your resume and certifications, to these agencies.
• Communicate regularly with agency recruiters to stay updated on available assignments.
• Attend job fairs and industry conferences where you can meet agency representatives face-to-face.
• Consider partnering with multiple agencies to maximize your job opportunities.

Building relationships with travel nursing agencies not only increases your chances of finding suitable assignments but also provides you with valuable support throughout your travel nursing career.

C. Networking with Other Travel Nurses

Networking with other travel nurses can also be beneficial when it comes to finding travel nursing positions in Canada. Here are some networking strategies to consider:

• Join online communities and forums specifically for travel nurses to connect with others in the field.
• Attend local and regional meetups or conferences for travel nurses.
• Participate in social media groups and discussions focused on travel nursing in Canada.
• Reach out to experienced travel nurses for advice and recommendations on job opportunities.

Networking with fellow travel nurses allows you to tap into their knowledge and experience. They can provide valuable tips and insights into finding the best travel nursing positions in Canada.

Therefore, finding travel nursing positions in Canada requires utilizing various resources, building relationships with agencies, and networking with other travel nurses. By combining these strategies, you can embark on an exciting and fulfilling travel nursing career in Canada.

Read: The Evolution of Medical Practice in Canada

Tips for Success in Travel Nursing in Canada

Travel nursing in Canada can be an exciting and fulfilling career option for healthcare professionals. It offers the opportunity to explore different regions, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact on patients’ lives. To ensure a successful travel nursing experience in Canada, here are some essential tips:

A. Stay organized and plan ahead for relocations

• Create a checklist to ensure you pack all necessary documents and personal belongings.
• Research your new location, including housing options and amenities, to make the transition smoother.
• Stay on top of licensing requirements and ensure all necessary paperwork is in order for each new assignment.

B. Be adaptable and embrace new challenges

• Each healthcare facility will have its own unique practices and protocols. Be open to learning and adapting to new environments.
• Show flexibility in your work schedule and be prepared to work different shifts or handle unexpected situations.
• Embrace the opportunity to work with diverse patient populations and gain experience in a variety of healthcare settings.

C. Develop strong communication skills

• Effective communication is crucial in travel nursing. Be clear and concise in your interactions with patients, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Listen actively to understand patients’ needs and concerns, and advocate for them when necessary.
• Collaborate with healthcare teams by sharing valuable information and participating in discussions and meetings.

In addition to these tips, it’s important to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Travel nursing can be demanding, but with proper planning and a positive mindset, it can be a rewarding experience.

Travel nursing in Canada offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive career choice for many healthcare professionals. Some of the key advantages include:

• Professional growth:  Travel nursing allows you to gain experience in various clinical settings, enhancing your skills and knowledge.
• Competitive compensation:  Many travel nursing assignments in Canada offer higher wages and additional perks compared to permanent positions.
• Flexibility:  As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose your assignments and locations, allowing for a more flexible lifestyle.
• Exploration:  Canada’s vast and diverse landscape provides opportunities to explore different provinces and immerse yourself in new cultures.
• Networking:  Travel nursing allows you to connect with professionals from various healthcare facilities, broadening your professional network.

In summary, travel nursing in Canada can be an exciting and fulfilling career path for healthcare professionals. To thrive in this field, it is essential to stay organized, be adaptable, and develop strong communication skills. Additionally, take advantage of the benefits travel nursing offers, such as professional growth, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to explore Canada’s diverse regions. With these tips in mind, you can embark on a successful travel nursing journey in Canada.

Travel nursing in Canada offers numerous benefits such as higher pay, flexibility, and professional growth opportunities.

However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges including potential culture shock, being away from family and friends, and navigating different healthcare systems.

Despite these challenges, I strongly encourage nurses to consider travel nursing as a career option.

Not only does it allow you to explore different parts of Canada and experience diverse healthcare settings, but it also provides a chance to make a positive impact on patient care.

By embracing travel nursing, you can enhance your skills, develop a professional network, and enjoy the exciting adventure of living and working in different cities across Canada.

So, if you’re seeking a rewarding and dynamic nursing career, give travel nursing a serious thought. It could be the right path for you!

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Healthease Staffing

Live your travel nursing life with ease

Healthcare staffing assignments for nursing

Gain access to qualified candidates

We will make it easier for you

Here For You

Where People Come First

We fill in staffing gaps at hospitals and other facilities on a temporary basis.

Service across Canada

Assignments can be in suburban or rural areas across the country.

Qualified nurses

Highest Quality Care

Great opportunity to demonstrate expertise in the nurse’s chosen field.

Registered Nurse

Registered Practical Nurse Licensed Practical Nurse

RTs/OTs/PTs

Allied Health

Personal Support Worker

Total Health Care Solutions

We are a travel nursing agency borne out from first-hand experience, and throughout our nursing career, we have caught ourselves too many times wishing that some services are offered and extended, or just be supported, seen, and heard.

At healthease staffing, YOU ARE OUR PRIORITY.

We will support YOU in every part of your travel nurse journey.

Increasing Demand

Perks of Being a Travel Nurse with Us

Travel nursing is a life-enriching experience and it offers a unique blend of benefits, both personally and professionally. Outstandingly, it both provides a stable, sought-after career and an exciting life of travel. As you go through different facilities, you get to immerse yourself in different areas of the practice and this adds a variety of valuable skills, which greatly boosts your resume.

Given the exciting perks mentioned above, at Healthease, we offer:

License reimbursement.

Secure accommodation.

End of contract incentives.

Referral bonus.

Training fees reimbursement.

Airfare/travel.

Car Rental.

Meal allowance.

Night and Charge Differential.

The demand for travel nursing in Canada has been steadily climbing over the last few years, resulting in an ever-growing number of healthcare agencies seeking qualified personnel to fill roles on a temporary basis. Travel and contract nurses are now being sought after across multiple sectors, including long-term care facilities, hospitals etc.

The nursing industry is facing a shortage of nurses caused by a number of factors.

Travel nurses can be a more cost-effective option than hiring full-time nurses, since they typically only work for a few months at a time.

The increasing popularity of medical tourism has contributed to the demand for travel nurses.

Hospitals are connecting to travel nursing agencies in Canada for hiring nurses to take care of patients.

Travel Nursing

Explore new places and learn about other cultures.

Work in different healthcare settings and learn new techniques.

Fill vacant positions quickly and efficiently.

Build relationships with nurses from all over the country.

Make an impact where it matters the most.

Staffing Solution

3 reasons to work with us, higher pay packages + incentives, license and travel reimbursements, competency upgrade.

How we work

INTEGRITY We operate with clarity and trust. We observe and adopt the highest moral standards of our industry. We are passionate, we are dedicated and we love what we do!

RESPECT We treat each other, and our clients with mutual respect and sensitivity.

BALANCE We strongly believe in work / life balance, and we support workplace flexibility.

We are passionate, we are dedicated and we love what we do.

We will support you in every part of your Travel Nurse journey.

TRAVEL NURSING

Isn’t it time to spread your wings, travel Canada and never miss a paycheck?

Work to live , Talk about work/life balance!

Nursing is your career. You went to school and studied hard, graduated, got your first job and now you’ve been working in the field of nursing for a lot of years. You love the job and you’re passionate about it, but at this point in your life you want  more ‘You time.’ You’d like to have more time with your family and friends, you’d like to travel and you’re even starting to think about retiring; not yet, but you’re thinking about it. What if you could stay in the profession you trained for and you love and have the lifestyle you want at the same time? There is such a thing as work/life balance; you can have it all with Solutions Staffing.

Nursing school helped you prepare for what a career in the industry was going to be like, but the real training has been the years of experience you’ve devoted to the field. Your education along with what you have learned on the job has made you an invaluable asset to the profession. Throughout everything you’ve learned, one of the most important things is that to be at your absolute best, it is essential to have a real balance between your work life and your personal life. When you first started in nursing it was important to prove yourself as a dedicated and passionate hard worker; you’ve done that. Now it would be nice to let the profession work for you. What if we told you there’s a different kind of nursing experience? Solutions Staffing is just an email away.

Work When You Have Time To Work. Decide for yourself.

Nursing is a tremendous career and you love it, but sometimes the scheduling doesn’t account for your aging parents, your kids or grandkids or the fact that you’d like to take an extended vacation. You give a lot of yourself to your career, but it would be nice to be able to decide when you want to work and what’s best for you and your family. With Solutions Staffing, that’s exactly what happens: you decide for yourself when and where you work. Seem to good to be true? Solutions Staffing is a real opportunity for you. Our reputation speaks for itself and while you get on with the business of what you do best, we take care of the rest. Of course you have a lot of questions, that’s normal. We will answer all of them so you can make the decisions that are right for you.

It’s Flexible Freedom. Never Miss A Paycheque.

Remember when you were first learning how to use your Smart Phone? Your TV remote? The PVR? You knew that you wanted to do it, but it seemed daunting and scary so you put it off. It didn’t take you long to realize that if you wanted these things as a part of your lifestyle you were going to have to pursue them. And so you did and you mastered it. The reason you put in the time and effort to learn about it is because you knew that it would make your life easier, more convenient and ultimately better. That’s what it’s like with Travel Nursing. At first, you might not think that it’s that important to you, but as you think about it, you start to realize that this really could improve your life. Not only will you get the hang of it in no time, but just like with technology, you’ll wonder how you did without it. It’s your job, your way with Solutions Staffing. We hire healthcare professionals including Nurse practitioners, Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Allied Healthcare Professionals for casual shifts, permanent positions and everything in between.

Let’s talk.

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Northern Staffing – Explore Travel Nurse Opportunities

Since 1997, Bayshore nurses have supported diverse Indigenous communities (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) in Canada’s remote areas and regions by providing care to everyone from newborns to elders. On our team, you’ll receive unlimited potential for professional and personal growth and even more location choices.

We are looking for all types of nurses in all provinces and territories. Come join the best nursing team in the country. See all opportunities below.

Want to know more?

Current positions.

• Travel RN (Yukon)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (Manitoba)
• Public Health Nurse (PHN) (BC)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP) (Ontario)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP) (Manitoba)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP) (Alberta)
• Community Health Nurse (CHN) (Alberta)
• Community Health Nurse (CHN) (BC)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (BC)
• Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) (Manitoba)
• Community Health Nurse (CHN) (Manitoba)
• Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) (Manitoba)
• Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) (Manitoba)
• Community Health Nurse (CHN) (Nunavut)
• Home Care Nurse (HCN) (Nunavut)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (Nunavut)
• MHN/RPN (Registered Psychiatric Nurse) (Nunavut)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP) (Nunavut)
• Public Health Nurse (PHN) (Nunavut)
• RN Pediatrics, RN Surgery, RN Obstetrics (NWT)
• Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) (Ontario)
• Community Health Nurse (CHN) (Ontario)
• Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) (Ontario)
• Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) (Ontario)
• Emergency, Med-Surg, ICU (Yukon)
• Mental Health Nurse, RPN (Registered Psychiatric Nurse) (Yukon)

Communities We Serve

Why become a travel nurse with bayshore.

We build lasting relationships with our travel nurses and are dedicated to setting you up for success and providing continuous support throughout your assignment. Our goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and confident while providing the best possible care within your scope of practice.

• Fully paid travel and accommodations
• Highly competitive pay and benefits package
• Bonus Incentives
• Comprehensive orientation
• Diverse assignments
• Flexible schedules
• Work/life balance

Who we hire

We hire licensed practical nurses/registered practical nurses and registered nurses who provide primary and emergency care in clinical and hospital settings. Depending on the location, there are also opportunities to   work in long term care facilities, health centres, hospitals and in the community with home care and Public Health.

Check out our current northern staffing job opportunities for full details and apply today .

Opportunity Spotlight

Bayshore Northern Staffing was recently awarded a multi year staffing contract as the primary provider to the many communities across Nunavut’s three regions – meaning all available assignments are given to Bayshore first to fill!

Meet our Team

Chantal Matte, RPN Director of Operations

Sakina Abbas, NP-PHC, MN Nurse Educator

Leslie Marvell MN NP-PHC CHPCN(c) CON(c) Clinical Operations Lead

Jacqueline Simms R.N., B.N, M.N.  Manager of Clinical Practice & Recruitment

Bayley Naken, BScN Manager of Clinical Practice

We are always available to answer questions you may have about our travel nursing opportunities.

Other Services

Become a travel nurse for an experience of a lifetime!

Bayshore HealthCare’s Santé nordique program has provided high-quality community health relief staffing services to Indigenous and northern communities since 1997.

Northern Opportunities

A leader in community health relief staffing services to aboriginal and northern communities.

Paediatrics / Specialty Nursing Program (BC)

Health care for the unique needs of children, youth and their families.

Paediatric Program

Bayshore Medical Personnel

Supporting our customers’ mission to deliver excellent healthcare services by sourcing and hiring highly qualified healthcare professionals across the country to help fill their needs.

Bayshore Home Care Solutions is a trusted provider of home health care services for government funders across Canada. We work together with health authorities, hospitals and health system planners to provide cost-effective, integrated care solutions.

Integrated Care Solutions

Partnering with governments and hospitals to implement bundled care models.

Alternative Level of Care Transitional Program

Supporting patients as they transition from hospital to interim short-stay facility.

Government Funded Care Solutions

A contracted health care provider for government-funded services.

Post Acute Community Infusions

Specialty medications, infusion equipment and supplies, and education

Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology

A wide range of rehabilitation services to manage injury, illness and disability

An after hours Patient Support Program for patients receiving systemic therapy

Medical Assistance In Dying (MAID)

Bayshore is committed to providing high-quality care to our end-of-life clients.

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‘This can’t continue’: No value for money in N.B. use of travel nurses, auditor says

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New Brunswick’s reliance on private nursing services was not a good use of public money, the province’s auditor general said Tuesday, noting that the two provincial health authorities and a government department failed to properly monitor who was getting paid and how much.

In his latest audit, Paul Martin studied almost $174 million worth of contracts with private companies that offer travel nurses — who work on temporary assignments across the health network — between Jan. 1, 2022, and Feb. 29, 2024.

His report is an indictment on government management: little to no criteria for choosing travel nurse companies; no legal review of contracts, some of which were tendered without requests for proposals; payments made without due diligence or documentation to justify expenses.

“It’s probably the greatest surprise I’ve seen in a lot of my years,” Martin told reporters after he released his report.

“The facts are striking to me. I’m shocked, disappointed … Action needs to happen. This can’t continue. This is not the appropriate way to do contract management, procure for government, deliver services. This has to be fixed.”

Out of the three government bodies audited, the biggest spender on travel nurses was the francophone Vitalité Health Network, which paid more than $123 million, including $98 million to one Ontario-based agency, Canadian Health Labs. Martin said Vitalité conducted three internal audits on its contracts with the Ontario agency but refused to give his office access to them.

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“Due to the lack of co-operation from Vitalité, risks that they identified in the audit reports and to what extent those risks were addressed is not known,” his report said.

The francophone health network did not have guidelines or other selection criteria to support its choice of private nursing vendors, Martin said in the report, adding that the health authority “did not obtain a legal review for any of the contracts they signed.”

Contracts — one of which had an automatic renewal clause — tendered by Vitalité were not aligned with government standards, the audit found. In some cases payments were made without due diligence and without sufficient supporting documentation, including for rental cars and meal allowances.

“In our testing of 64 invoices, we noted meal allowances on CHL (Canadian Health Labs) invoices were paid without adequate support totalling $281,640. Meal allowances were often paid for double or triple what the support provided would have allowed for.”

In a statement on its website Vitalité said it submitted all but three documents requested by Martin’s office. The three documents that were not transferred, it said, were shielded by a non-disclosure agreement.

“We clearly explained this constraint as (we are) in the midst of a dispute with one of the companies targeted in this investigation,” it said.

Canadian Health Labs chief executive officer Bill Hennessey was not available on Tuesday for an interview.

Meanwhile, $3 million in spending on travel nurses at the Department of Social Development was made without requests for proposals, and Martin found that pricing structures varied significantly. Of the two companies hired — Canadian Health Labs and Plan A — Canadian Health Labs billed 3.6 times more for an eight-hour day than Plan A.

“Pricing structures and the service delivery model varied greatly between the contracts and there was no comparative analysis done to support the strategic use of one company over another,” it said.

Horizon Health Network’s travel nurse spending — $48 million — also lacked due diligence, the report said.

“We reviewed 200 travel expenses claimed and found only 122 (61 per cent) had any level of backup to support the payment,” Martin said, adding that in the cases where support was provided, “it was often inadequate.”

Premier Blaine Higgs told the legislature Tuesday he was “disappointed” by Martin’s report.

“I do take responsibility because it’s not acceptable.”

Social Development Minister Jill Green said the government is working “very closely” with the offices of the attorney general and auditor general to review next steps.

“I can tell you that we’ve worked professionally with the service providers out there,” Green said. “We entered into contracts with them. We signed the contracts. Now we’re looking (at) how to remove ourselves from those contracts.”

Green party member Megan Mitton called the contracts “a clear mismanagement of public funds.”

“Canadian Health Labs must be laughing all the way to the bank. They have had quite a lucrative time in New Brunswick so far,” she said.

In his report, Martin offers a series of recommendations, including that the Department of Social Development produce a clear process to award public contracts. He said Horizon Health should ensure that billed rates are in compliance with contracted terms. And for Vitalité, the auditor said, the francophone agency should ensure that “significant contracts of a predetermined dollar value be reviewed by legal counsel.”

“There’s some common sense missing here that went out the window,” Martin told reporters. “People were just pressing click on the pay button and not doing their due diligence, not following policy. This is not how bills are supposed to be paid without the proper support.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 4, 2024.

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Auditor general slams travel-nurse contracts, says Vitalité withheld information

Paul martin’s report says private company’s deployment of nurses didn’t match staff absences.

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New Brunswick's auditor general is criticizing the Vitalité health authority for its handling of $123 million in travel-nurse contracts — and for its refusal to hand over key information about the agreements.

Paul Martin acknowledges in his audit that the health system was facing dire staffing shortages in 2022 when the authority signed its first contract with Canadian Health Labs.

But he says the deployment of travel nurses in Vitalité's hospitals "did not correlate with staff absences due to COVID-19" — one of the main rationales provided for the reliance on travel nurses — or with unplanned staff absences.

"The contracts with private nursing agencies were not reflective of best practices and did not demonstrate value for money," Martin said. 

What is "quite scary," he told MLAs Tuesday, is that the current Canadian Health Labs contract with Vitalité allows the company to deploy nurses "regardless of the actual need" and still be paid up to $85 million during the life of the agreement. 

"They're going to get paid money this year if you don't use them," he said.

At the same time, when the contract expires in 2026 it can be automatically renewed up to five times if the company meets bilingualism thresholds.

"I bet a lot of people would love to get a contract like this, and I would challenge government to do better — way better. This is not good."

'Lack of ownership' demonstrated, says AG

Vitalité said in a statement that most of Martin's recommendations are already standard practice, "while others will be implemented in the coming days."

The authority claimed, incorrectly, that Martin failed to mention "the emergency situation" in health care at the time the contracts were signed along with other "information and testimonials" not reflected in the audit.

In a response published as an appendix to his report, the health authority disputes many of Martin's findings — which Martin in turn rebutted during his appearance Tuesday at the legislature's public accounts committee.

He said given the health authority's pushback, his office was unable to reach conclusions about whether it agreed with the findings.

‘I’m shocked’: auditor general on Vitalité’s travel nurse contracts

"We are very concerned with the lack of ownership for the issues identified and unwillingness to clearly accept our recommendations," he said.

The health authority is a large organization spending huge amounts of money to provide health care to New Brunswickers, he said. 

"The oversight and accountability for those funds requires significantly more due diligence than what has been demonstrated to us during our work." 

In Question Period, Premier Blaine Higgs said he was "disappointed" with what Martin uncovered and called on both health authorities to follow the recommendations.

"I do take responsibility because it's not acceptable," Higgs said. 

"It's clear that the contracts that were signed were not the best value for the taxpayers of New Brunswick." 

Social Development Minister Jill Green said she and Health Minister Bruce Fitch have been working with government lawyers from the attorney general's office on "how we can extricate ourselves from these contracts."

At the end of Tuesday's public accounts committee meeting, MLAs from all three parties voted unanimously to call Vitalité, Horizon Health, and the departments of social development and health to testify before June 30 about the contracts.

Progressive Conservative MLA Jeff Carr called Vitalité's approach "an insult" to taxpayers.

"What I'm seeing here with the lack of accountability … flies in the face of what our government stands for," he said.

"I really worry about the signal it sends to the rest of the good people in the system." 

Liberal MLA Benoit Bourque, a former health minister, said Martin's audit was "by far the most scathing report" he'd seen during a decade in politics. 

"This is beyond words."

Green Party MLA Megan Mitton told Martin that Canadian Health Labs must be "laughing all the way to the bank. They have had quite a lucrative time in New Brunswick so far."

Martin also found no proper bidding process, no legal review of the contracts and no review before Canadian Health Labs was paid for its travel nurses in long-term care homes under a separate contract with the Department of Social Development, the audit says. 

His audit also criticized Horizon Health's travel-nurse contracts but said it did a better job ensuring that the services it was paying for were delivered.

He contrasted Horizon's approach with Vitalite's decision to hire Canadian Health Labs without a bidding process, noting Horizon was able to choose among proposals from 37 travel-nurse agencies and did not pick that company.

"It seems like there's some fish in the pond," he said.

Martin casts doubt on Vitalité's rationale for its heavy spending on travel nurses: that French-speaking nurses are harder to recruit, which created a more severe shortage at the health authority's facilities, which operate in French.

The auditor general says the contract required that Canadian Health Labs provide only "limited" service in French in some hospitals.

Won't rule out court action

He also says Vitalité refused to give his office three internal audits it conducted itself into its contracts with the company, a violation of the Auditor General Act which says the office is entitled to "free access" to all documents whether they're confidential or not.

"Due to the lack of co-operation from Vitalité, risks that they identified in the audit reports and to what extent those risks were addressed is not known," Martin's report says.

"It is critical that government organizations understand the powers of the Auditor General and comply with the Auditor General Act."

• Travel nurse costs help push Vitalité nearly $98M over budget
• Auditor general begins probe of travel nurse contracts in N.B.

Martin told MLAs that he wasn't ruling out going to court to force the health authority to turn over the three internal audits. 

Vitalité said in its statement it had been "irreproachable" in its co-operation with Martin's office and the three audits were withheld only because the health authority "is in the midst of a dispute with one of the companies targeted in this investigation" and sharing them might have hurt negotiations. 

In its rebuttal in the audit's appendix, Vitalité says its use of travel nurses allowed it to avoid:

The closure of the Campbellton Regional Hospital's emergency department.

A two-thirds reduction in emergency capacity at Moncton's Dr. Georges-L. Dumont University Hospital Centre.

The closure of the Restigouche Hospital Centre, the province's forensic psychology facility.

"The network had to act quickly to counter the nursing shortage," it says.

$98M in contracts with one company

Martin's audit did not include an examination of the Department of Health's role because it did not sign any travel-nurse contracts, he said.

He added that Tuesday's audit was only "a piece of this" but he wanted to get his findings out quickly, and his office may do more work on travel nurse issues in the future.

The total value of all travel contracts with 10 companies was $173 million, Martin said. 

The largest amount was $98 million for three contracts between Vitalité and Canadian Health Labs.

The company's CEO, Bill Hennessey, said in an email he was travelling Tuesday and would likely be unable to respond to questions.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Provincial Affairs reporter

Jacques Poitras has been CBC's provincial affairs reporter in New Brunswick since 2000. He grew up in Moncton and covered Parliament in Ottawa for the New Brunswick Telegraph-Journal. He has reported on every New Brunswick election since 1995 and won awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association, the National Newspaper Awards and Amnesty International. He is also the author of five non-fiction books about New Brunswick politics and history.

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Canada announces new pilot programs to support caregivers and Canadian families, intends to make the caregivers program permanent

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News release

Caregivers from abroad are invaluable to Canadian families. Their hard work makes a difference in the lives of those they care for, including children, seniors and persons with disabilities.

June 3, 2024—Toronto— Caregivers from abroad are invaluable to Canadian families. Their hard work makes a difference in the lives of those they care for, including children, seniors and persons with disabilities.

As the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot come to a close later this month, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced new, enhanced caregiver pilots. This will allow caregivers to continue to come to Canada, as we work toward making the caregiver pilot programs permanent.

The new pilot programs will provide home care workers with permanent residence (PR) on arrival in Canada. They will also be allowed to work for organizations that provide temporary or part­time care for people who are semi-independent or recovering from an injury or illness. This new pathway means that caregivers can more easily find proper work with reliable employers and have clear, straightforward access to permanent resident status as soon as they arrive in Canada.

Through these new pilot programs, candidates interested in working in Canada’s home care sector will be eligible to apply if they meet the following criteria:

• attain a minimum of level 4 based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)
• hold the equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma
• have recent and relevant work experience
• receive an offer for a full-time home care job

These new PR on arrival pilot programs mark an important step forward in Canada’s efforts to meet the evolving home care needs of its diverse population. More information will be available before the full launch of the pilots, including full eligibility criteria and details on how to apply.

“Caregivers play a critical role in supporting Canadian families, and our programs need to reflect their invaluable contributions. As we work to implement a permanent caregivers program, these two new pilots will not only improve support for caregivers, but also provide families with the quality care they deserve.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“After hearing stories and feedback from caregivers across Canada, I am proud that we are taking concrete action to create policies to support the caregiver community. Generations of women and men have advocated for this important pathway and have cared for our families and loved ones here in Canada. Now is the time to return the care they deserve." – The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business

Quick facts

In June 2014, there was an inventory of over 60,000 persons for the Live-in Caregiver Program. Today, less than 1% of that Live-in Caregiver Program inventory remains.

As part of the 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada will admit over 15,000 caregivers as permanent residents.

As of April 30, 2024, nearly 5,700  caregivers and their family members have become permanent residents since the launch of the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot in 2019.

Associated links

• Existing Canadian caregiver programs

Contacts for media only:

Bahoz Dara Aziz Press Secretary Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected] Media Relations Communications Sector Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]

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New Brunswick Auditor-General says private nursing contracts lacked oversight, as province plots an exit

The emergency department at Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre in Moncton. Daniel St Louis/Supplied

The New Brunswick government says it is seeking to end current contracts with private nursing agencies after the release Tuesday of a report by the province’s Auditor-General about the exorbitant fees, questionable billing and lack of oversight associated with those arrangements.

Much of Auditor-General Paul Martin’s report focused on contracts between the Vitalité Health Network, which runs the province’s francophone public medical services, and the Toronto-based agency Canadian Health Labs. CHL supplies temporary health care personnel, also known as travel nurses, from other parts of Canada to places that are short-handed, a booming industry because of the pandemic.

The audit found that Vitalité so far has paid CHL more than $98-million, the largest share of the more than $173-million New Brunswick spent on temporary nurses between February, 2022, and February, 2024. The sum is more than one-tenth of Vitalité's $899.5-million budget for the fiscal year ending in March. The network has blamed travel nursing expenses as the cause of its $100-million budget overrun this year.

It also found that Vitalité's three contracts with the Toronto agency weren’t reviewed by lawyers and lacked documentation to support its selection of CHL as a provider of temporary nurses and orderlies.

Mr. Martin said he is considering seeking a court order to force Vitalité to turn over three internal audits of its contracts with CHL, the first time he has sought such a step in his 2½ years in the job because of resistance from a government body.

In a statement, Vitalité said that it is in a legal dispute with a nursing agency and that the three documents are covered by attorney-client confidentiality. “Sharing those documents could harm certain ongoing negotiations,” it said. (The statement didn’t identify the agency, but according to Mr. Martin, the three documents deal with CHL contracts.)

During Question Period in the legislature, Social Development Minister Jill Green said the government is trying to end the current private nursing deals. “We are working with our partners at the Attorney-General’s office to look at how these contracts can be severed in a legal way.”

Ms. Green, Vitalité and CHL did not provide more details.

In presenting his report before a legislature committee on Tuesday, Mr. Martin said Vitalité failed to acknowledge the problems he identified. “I find it very difficult to understand why Vitalité is not saying, ‘Oh my goodness, we need to fix this,’” he said, adding that he was met instead with an “aggressive response.”

CHL was the subject of a Globe and Mail investigation published in February. The audit confirmed many of The Globe’s findings, including the fact that the company charged much higher rates than those of its competitors.

Vitalité's deals with CHL have features that are “quite scary,” Mr. Martin told the committee, alluding to a clause that allows CHL to invoice for staff who weren’t needed, and an auto-renewal clause if bilingualism and overall staffing targets were met.

“I bet a lot of people would love to get a contract like this, and I would challenge government to do better – way better. This is not good,” Mr. Martin said.

CHL has said in past statements that its contracts are “fair and transparent” and reflect the “extraordinary logistical challenges” of recruiting and retaining health care workers in rural Canada. The company did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

But committee members expressed outrage at the audit’s findings. “This is scandalous that the taxpayers are on the hook for such large sums,” Liberal MLA Richard Losier said.

“Canadian Health Labs is laughing all the way to the bank. They have had quite a lucrative time in New Brunswick so far,” said Megan Mitton of the Green Party.

Vitalité has said that it retained CHL because it could supply bilingual nurses. In fact, auditors found that, while CHL accounted for 80 per cent of Vitalité's travel nursing costs, the ability to speak French was only required at two facilities and “there were concerns with the level of French language services provided.”

Furthermore, CHL didn’t pay for the agency’s liability insurance, requesting instead that Vitalité supply coverage under a government-sponsored plan. However, that plan excludes third-party contractors, the audit found.

CHL charged for nursing services in 12-hour increments, but the report found cases where Vitalité paid more than $18,000 for a 12-hour period when some of the nurses only worked 3½ hours.

The Globe investigation found that CHL billed Vitalité for meal allowances for its personnel, even though the company told the nurses that they had to pay for their own food. The audit found that “meal allowances were often paid for double or triple what the support provided would have allowed for.”

The report also looked at the fact that CHL charged Vitalité for the rental of electric vehicles from a firm called Canadian EV Labs, which was linked to the agency’s CEO, Bill Hennessey.

Vitalité paid Canadian EV Labs up to $345 a day even though the province had prearranged daily rates with other rental firms at less than $83, the audit found.

Mr. Martin told The Globe he may investigate travel nursing further, including whether agencies overcharged for accommodations.

The audit also looked at $2.7-million that CHL invoiced the Department of Social Development to staff nursing homes in 2022. Nearly half of CHL’s travel-related invoices were not properly supported, the report said. This included a hotel room billed twice, rooms booked for the same person at different hotels on the same day, flights to Newfoundland with no evidence of work done in New Brunswick and $6,405 in gift cards.

CHL signed similar contracts with authorities in Newfoundland and Labrador. Those are part of a continuing review being conducted by Newfoundland Auditor-General Denise Hanrahan. Mr. Martin said his office has been in contact with their counterparts in Newfoundland.

Paula Doucet, president of the New Brunswick Nurses Union, said she was “appalled” by the lack of oversight. “New Brunswick had never utilized private, for-profit travel agencies before 2022 and now we’re spending $173-million in a two-year period?” she said. “That’s mind-blowing.”

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