U.S. Nurse Moving to N.S.: Start With a Simple Plan
If you are a U.S. Nurse Moving to N.S. can feel like a reset but nursing license transfer sets your timeline. Start with your regulator and then align work location with housing. In Nova Scotia, nursing is regulated by the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN).
Step 1: Confirm your nursing designation (RN, LPN, NP)
First, identify your role.
RN, LPN, or NP.
Then start on NSCN’s “Apply to be a nurse in Nova Scotia” pathway.
Here’s the hub: Registration & Licensing (NSCN).
Step 2: If you’re U.S.-educated, email NSCN before you begin
NSCN specifically asks U.S.-educated LPNs, RNs, and NPs to email them first.
Use: registration@nscn.ca.
This one step can prevent rework and it can also reduce delays.
Useful pages:
- International Applicants (NSCN)
- Licensing Process for International Nurses (NSCN)
- Contact NSCN (email list)
Step 3: Know the “work sooner” option
Some nurses can work while preparing for the registration exam, NSCN calls this a conditional licence.
Learn more here: Conditional Registration and Licensing (NSCN).
(Eligibility depends on your situation. Always confirm with NSCN.)
Step 4: Line up your job search with Nova Scotia Health
Don’t pick a neighbourhood first, pick your likely work site first.
Start your search here:
If you’re internationally educated, review support steps here:
Step 5: Immigration planning (high-level links)
Many healthcare hires use employer-supported pathways, Nova Scotia Health also has an immigration support page:
For federal program basics:
For provincial nominee program orientation:
Step 6: Housing choices for nurses (shift-friendly thinking)
Shift work changes everything and commute predictability matters. Many nurses rent first and then they buy once licensing and schedules feel stable.
Here are housing resources on your site:
- Moving to Nova Scotia from the USA: Top 10 Considerations
- Halifax Neighborhood Guide (PDF)
- Nick Ogden REALTOR®
Bonus planning link (health coverage timing):
Quick Start Checklist for U.S. Nurses
- Confirm RN, LPN, or NP path with NSCN.
- Email registration@nscn.ca before starting if U.S.-educated.
- Build a document folder and tracking list.
- Shortlist work locations with Nova Scotia Health postings.
- Choose neighbourhoods based on commute and shift type.
- Decide rent-first or buy-first based on timeline clarity.
If you are a U.S. nurse moving to N.S. I would be happy to provide you my guide with more information and resources than this post. Do not hesitate to reach out, I am always here.
Nick Ogden | REALTOR
902-240-0635 | nogden@pressrealty.ca
