Here is a list of alternative career pathways for internationally registered nurses sourced from ALIS and NOC. If the regulatory requirements and credentialing required to continue a registered/practical nursing career in Canada appear too daunting or infeasible, you could consider adjusting your career trajectory in one of the following directions.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Licensed practical nurses (L.P.N), also called Registered practical nurses (R.P.N.), provide care for individuals, families and groups in various healthcare settings. They may practice independently or as part of a healthcare team.

The 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) code adopted on November 16, 2022, by IRCC for Licensed Practical Nurses is 32101.

To work as a licensed practical nurse, you require the following:

• Completion of a vocational, college or other approved program specifically for LPNs

• Successful completion of the Regulatory Exam - Practical Nurse (REx-PN)

• Registration with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA)

Operating Room Technician

Operating room technicians prepare patients and assist medical practitioners before and during surgery.

The 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) code adopted on November 16, 2022, by IRCC for Operating Room Technician is 32101, the same as Licensed Practical Nurses.

To work as an Operating Room Technician, you require:

• Completion of a vocational, college or other approved program specifically for LPNs

• Successful completion of the Regulatory Exam - Practical Nurse (REx-PN)

• Registration with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA)

• Additional academic training in operating room techniques (perioperative nursing program)

Medical Office Assistant

Medical office assistants support doctors and other healthcare professionals with clerical and administrative tasks. 

The 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) code adopted on November 16, 2022, by IRCC for Medical Office Assistants is 13112.

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta. Completion of secondary school is usually required. Medical and dental offices, in particular, most often require candidates to have a diploma or be certified by a medical office assistant program. Learn more about related education available in Alberta on ALIS website.

Healthcare Aides

Healthcare aides include nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates who assist nurses, hospital staff and physicians in the basic care of patients.

The 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) code adopted on November 16, 2022, by IRCC for Healthcare aides, Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates is 33102.

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta. To become certified as a health care aide in Alberta you must complete a recognized health care aide program or equivalent. More information on Alberta Health website. You can learn more about related education available in Alberta on ALIS website.

Home Support Workers, Caregivers and Related Occupations

Home support workers, caregivers and related occupations provide personal care and companionship for seniors, persons with disabilities and convalescent clients. 

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta, but the following is usually required:

• Secondary school education 

• Home management experience

• College or other courses in-home support

• First aid certification.

• Completion of a training program in the care of the elderly, care of persons with disabilities, convalescent care or in a related field may be required.