Why nurses often score well
Nursing (NOC 31301, TEER 1) lines up well with several OWPS factors at once:
Occupational category
Health occupations score the maximum on this factor. Nursing is a textbook example.
Occupation TEER level
TEER 1 occupations qualify for the top TEER level tier under the skilled job offer pathway.
Hourly wage
RN wages in Ontario typically clear the $40/hr top tier, especially with hospital or specialty experience.
A sample score scenario
Here is an illustrative (not guaranteed) scenario for a mid-career RN with a Toronto job offer:
Example profile: RN, 2 years Ontario experience, CLB 9, Bachelor's degree, Toronto job offer
This is an illustrative example, not a guarantee. Run the full calculator with your own details.
Frequently asked questions
Is NOC 31301 the only nursing code that qualifies?
31301 (registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses) is the main one, but related nursing roles may fall under other NOC codes. Use the NOC and TEER finder to check your specific title.
Do internationally trained nurses need Canadian licensure first?
Generally yes. You typically need registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (or equivalent) before an employer can extend a genuine job offer. This is separate from the OINP process itself.
Which pathway do nurses use, skilled or essential?
Nurses (TEER 1) fall under the skilled job offer pathway, not the essential pathway, since TEER 1 is well above the TEER 4 to 5 essential threshold.