Travel Nursing Canada | How to Start, Best Agencies & Salary Insights

If you’re a nurse looking for career flexibility and higher earning potential, Travel Nursing Canada might be the perfect path for you. With nursing shortages in rural, northern, and remote communities, Canadian healthcare facilities are constantly seeking skilled travel nurses for temporary contracts. These roles offer adventure, professional growth, and competitive pay while allowing you to explore new cities and healthcare environments across the country.

What is Travel Nursing in Canada ?

Travel nursing in Canada involves short-term nursing assignments in various locations—ranging from big cities to remote Indigenous communities. Travel nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities for periods ranging from a few weeks to several months. These assignments are typically facilitated through staffing agencies and offer full-time hours, accommodation support, and travel reimbursements.

Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary: Travel nurses often earn $45–$80 per hour, depending on the region and demand.
  • Tax-Free Allowances: Many assignments include tax-free stipends for housing, meals, and travel.
  • Flexible Contracts: Choose assignments based on your preferred duration and location.
  • Professional Growth: Gain diverse experience in ICU, ER, pediatrics, long-term care, and more.
  • Explore Canada: From Yukon to Nova Scotia, you can live and work in unique environments.

Qualifications Required for Travel Nursing in Canada

To work as a travel nurse in Canada, you generally need:

  • An active license with your provincial regulatory body (e.g., BCCNM, CRNA, CNO)
  • 1–2 years of recent clinical experience in your specialty
  • BLS/CPR certification (and sometimes ACLS or TNCC)
  • Willingness to relocate temporarily for contract work
  • Clear criminal background check and up-to-date immunizations

Best Travel Nursing Agencies in Canada

These top-rated travel nursing agencies can help you find contracts that match your skills and location preferences:

  1. Solutions Staffing – One of the largest travel nursing agencies in Canada
  2. Select Medical Connections – Specializes in travel placements across Western Canada
  3. Northern Nursing – Focuses on rural and remote communities
  4. ParaMed Health Services – Offers travel roles in Ontario and Quebec
  5. Canadian Health Labs (CHL) – Offers premium travel assignments with competitive pay

Salary Expectations for Travel Nurses in Canada

The salary range varies based on province, role, and urgency of need. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Northern communities: $70–$90/hour + bonuses
  • Urban hospitals: $45–$60/hour
  • Remote clinics: Often include overtime, travel, and housing allowances

Some travel nurses earn over $8,000/month on high-demand contracts, especially when night shifts and overtime are included.

How to Apply for Travel Nursing Positions in Canada

Follow these steps:

  1. Register with a travel nursing agency
  2. Submit your resume, credentials, and availability
  3. Complete necessary health checks and background screening
  4. Interview with agency reps or facility managers
  5. Accept a contract and prepare to travel!

Most agencies cover flights, lodging, and orientation, making it easy to transition between contracts.

Tips to Succeed

  • Be flexible with your location and schedule
  • Keep all certifications updated
  • Travel light and stay organized
  • Network with other travel nurses for advice and support
  • Stay open to new challenges and environments

Conclusion

Travel Nursing Canada offers nurses the opportunity to earn more, explore the country, and make a meaningful impact in communities facing healthcare shortages. With proper planning, licensing, and the right agency support, you can start a fulfilling career as a travel nurse in Canada. Whether you want to explore the Arctic, assist in busy city hospitals, or take short-term assignments during your holidays, this path offers unmatched variety and professional rewards.

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