Frequently Asked
Questions

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions surrounding licensing, financial supports, return of service and immigration.

General FAQs

What is the new Internationally Educated Allied Bursary Program?

On July 19, 2022, the Province of British Columbia announced $4.5M in funding to provide bursaries to high priority internationally educated allied health professionals (IEAHPs) that want to work in BC’s health system.

Health Match BC, in partnership with the BC Ministry of Health, will support eligible IEAHPs who want to work in BC by offering financial support to help pay for many of the costs associated with credential assessment, English Language proficiency testing, and supplementary education, such as exam preparation and bridging or gap-filling education.

To be eligible, IEAHPs must sign a Return of Service (ROS) agreement with the BC Ministry of Health to receive financial support through the bursary program.

By reducing barriers to the assessment and licensing or certification process, qualified IEAHPs will be able to enter the workforce sooner, so that people in British Columbia will have access to even more allied health professionals to support their healthcare needs.
Which allied health occupations are included in this initiative?

The first phase of the IEAHP bursary program will offer bursaries to internationally educated physiotherapists, medical laboratory technologists, and occupational therapists.

It is anticipated that more allied health occupations will be added to the program over time. Please watch the Health Match BC website, and follow them on social media, for more details.
Who is Health Match BC?
What role will Health Match BC play in the new IEAHP provincial initiative?

Health Match BC (HMBC), through its navigation team, will support internationally educated allied health professionals throughout their journey to practice in BC. The team will provide customized support in assisting candidates to navigate their credentials assessment, certification and/or registration applications. HMBC will also provide information and access to financial supports, in the form of bursaries and fee waiving, and guide candidates throughout the immigration process.

Through HMBC recruitment team, IEAHPs will be supported in accessing career opportunities with BC’s public health employers.
Are there allied health jobs in BC?

Yes! British Columbia offers a wide range of allied health jobs in large urban centres, medium and small cities, and rural and remote communities.

Opportunities exist for career development in acute care (hospitals), rehabilitation, long-term care and assisted living, community laboratories, and primary care.

The wide range of opportunities means that allied health professionals will be able to find the perfect fit for their career preferences, career growth, and family needs.
Who should apply to the bursary program?

The bursaries are for IEAHPs who currently live in British Columbia but are not yet working in a health care role aligned with their foreign training. It is also for those not yet in British Columbia but are looking to relocate here.

Possible applicants also include IEAHPs who are already undertaking the credentials assessment and licensing process.

IEAHPs who are eligible for the bursary can submit receipts for eligible expenses incurred on or after July 19, 2022. A valid Social Insurance Number (SIN), Canadian address and phone number, and a Canadian bank account are required for any expense reimbursements.

IEAHPs who have already completed the full pathway to licensure or certification, or those who have already had their credentials assessed and it was determined they are not able to become licensed or certified in BC, are not eligible for the bursary.

Please see the FAQ section for your occupation for more information on bursary program eligibility.
How is funding provided through the bursary program?

Depending on your occupation, your credential assessment fee may qualify to be paid directly by the Province to the associated credentialing or regulatory body. Otherwise, these fees will be covered by reimbursement.

All other eligible expenses incurred by eligible IEAHPs will be paid by a reimbursement process, by Health Match BC, up to the noted bursary maximum with proof of payment.

See the FAQ section for your occupation for more information.
Do I need a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) to apply?

A valid SIN is not required to apply for one of the IEAHP bursary programs, but you will need one and a Canadian bank account to receive bursary payments (reimbursement).

If you are not currently residing in Canada and are eligible for the bursaries, you will be reimbursed once you provide your SIN and Canadian bank account information for direct deposit.
How long will these bursaries be available?

There is no fixed end date for the IEAHP bursary program. Financial support through the program will be available while the Province has the budget.

Further funding beyond the initial budget may become available for the bursary program in future years, but this is not guaranteed.
Can I be on Employment Insurance (EI) if I am applying for a bursary?

Yes, if you currently receive EI, you may still proceed with a bursary application for financial support. You may want to confirm with Service Canada whether there is anything you should know about receiving bursary support while on EI or income assistance.
Note that you may not be able to collect EI payments while taking training. For more information, see: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/contact/ei-individual.html
Can I be reimbursed for taxes too?
Can the credentials assessment process be started or completed from outside of Canada?

This will depend on the credentials assessment process for your occupation. For some occupations, the process may be started or completed from outside of Canada however we cannot reimburse you for your valid expenses unless you have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) and a Canadian bank account.

Please see the FAQ for your occupation for more information or contact the credentialing body responsible for assessing your education and qualifications.
Is the bursary funding considered taxable income?

Yes, bursary funding is taxable income. If you receive bursary funding, at the end of the tax year HEABC will issue you a T4A and mail it to the address you provided on your application. Alternatively, you can retrieve your T4A directly on the CRA website, here.
For advice regarding tax implications of receiving the bursary and your specific circumstance, consult a tax specialist or qualified accountant.

Physiotherapists

Do I need to be licensed to practice as a physiotherapist in British Columbia?
As an internationally educated physiotherapist (IEPT), what are the first steps in becoming licensed in BC?

For IEPTs, the process begins with the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR). CAPR is the national organization responsible for assessing educational credentials and administering the written examination required for licensure. All IEPTs must complete CAPR’s Educational Credential and Qualifications Assessment. There are two pathways for IEPTs, the Standard Pathway and the Pre-Approved Pathway.
Is there an English Language Proficiency Test?

All internationally trained physiotherapists must demonstrate proficiency in English or French as part of the credentialling process. If you were educated in a language other than English or French, you must achieve the minimum score in each language skill area on one of CAPR’s approved language tests. CAPR advises you meet the language proficiency requirements beforeapplying for credentialling to avoid any delays in the process.
What is the Internationally Educated Physiotherapist (IEPT) Bursary Program?

Health Match BC, in partnership with the BC Ministry of Health and the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR), will support eligible IEPTs who want to work in BC by offering financial support to help pay for costs associated with credential assessment, English Language proficiency testing, exam preparation and bridging education.
Who is eligible to receive financial support through the IEPT bursary program?
IEPTs must commit to a Return of Service (ROS) agreement with the BC Ministry of Health to have the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) Educational Credential and Qualification Assessment fees waived.
The ROS agreement states that you intend to complete the full credentialing and licensure process with the College of Health and Care Professional of BC (CHCPBC) and will work in BC with a public sector employers for a specified length of time.
Additional bursaries (reimbursements) are available to IEPTS who commit to a ROS agreement and meet the following criteria:
You do NOT currently hold (or have previously held) registration as a Physiotherapist in any province or territory in Canada.
Please note, applicants who complete an entry to practice clinical assessment in another Canadian province to register in that province prior to registering in BC will become ineligible for the IEPT bursary program.
BC must be the only province or territory you have applied for registration as a Physiotherapist. If you have active applications for registration in any other Canadian province or territory, those applications must be withdrawn.
Must have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN), a Canadian address and phone number, and Canadian bank account for direct deposit. Those without these requirements may still be eligible but will not receive payment until they have both a valid Canadian SIN and bank account.
Have incurred costs on or after July 19, 2022.
Note: Applicants who choose to pay the CAPR assessment and fees themselves may still apply for bursary reimbursements of these fees at a later date if all bursary eligibility criteria have been fulfilled.
IEPTs who meet these criteria may already be somewhere along the pathway to full licensure in BC.
For more information and to see if you qualify, visit: https://alliedhealthjobsbc.ca/iept-bursary/ or contact Health Match BC at PTbursary@healthmatchbc.org
Who is not eligible for the IEPT bursary?
As an IEPT, you are not eligible for this bursary if you have:

Already had your credentials assessed with CAPR and it was determined that your education is substantially different to a Canadian-trained PT.

Already obtained full licensure with a Canadian provincial or territorial physiotherapy regulator (College).

Applicants who previously received bursaries for post-secondary training under Ministry of Health targeted programs may be ineligible for this bursary. Contact Health Match BC for further information.
What costs are not covered by the IEPT bursary program?

Although the bursary program covers a substantial amount of the overall costs that IEPTs pay to become licensed in BC, there are some costs that are not covered by the bursary.

Examples of costs that are not covered include transcript fees, document translation and notarization fees, regulatory college registration fees, and licensing exam fees.

The bursary program also does not cover costs associated with the immigration process or relocation.
When are funds provided to me? Is there any funding paid up front or are funds always provided by reimbursement?

If you have not yet started the CAPR credentials assessment process, you may be eligible to have the CAPR Educational Credential and Qualifications Assessment fee waived. When you register for the bursary program, CAPR and the Ministry of Health will be notified that you are participating in the bursary program and that you have signed a Return of Service agreement. Follow the directions on the CAPR application form carefully, to have this fee waived (paid directly by the Province of British Columbia).

A reimbursement process will be used for all other costs, including fees for English language proficiency testing and eligible supplemental education programs (and if eligible, an associated travel stipend).

Bursary payments will be provided when proof of payment, and any other required documentation, is provided to Health Match BC.
What travel funding is provided? When will I be reimbursed?
Some IEPTs may qualify for a travel stipend if they are currently residing in BC and need to travel to an in-person component of an eligible supplemental education program.

The amount provided are based on estimated travel-related costs & fuel consumption based on distance travelled (kms).

Travel allowance amount is based on location of primary residence, up to the maximum values below:

Locations 300km-1,000km or BC ferry = up to $750

Locations 1,000km-2,000km = up to $850

Locations 2,000km+ = up to $1,000

If you are eligible for the travel bursary, you will be reimbursed when you can provide proof of successful completion of an eligible exam preparation or bridging education program, and upon commencement of your Return of Service term with a Qualifying Employer. You will also need to provide proof of location of primary residence in British Columbia.

For proof of residence, you can submit one of the following documents showing your full name and address:

A utility (water, hydro, TV, internet) and/or cell phone bill (issued within the last two (2) months).

Any letter, statement, bill, or certificate issued by an insurance company l in Canada, including home insurance, tenant insurance, auto insurance, or life insurance (issued within the last two (2) months).

Driver’s licence or vehicle registration.

Statements of account (e.g., bank account) from a Canadian bank or institution.
How long does it take for IEPTs to complete the full pathway to licensure in BC?

The length of time for the full pathway to licensure depends on a variety of factors, including how quickly you can provide your documents to CAPR for the Assessment of Educational Credential and Qualifications, and whether or not you need to take additional education to help you to pass the qualifying exams.
Immigration routes may also impact the time it takes to become fully licensed to practice in BC. For more information see the immigration FAQ.
We recommend that you move through the pathway as quickly as possible to ensure that bursary funding remains available throughout your journey.
Visit the CAPR website for more information about the process to becoming credentialed and licensed to practice in Canada.
Visit the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC website for more information about becoming fully licensed to practice in BC.
What if my assessment demonstrates that my education is substantially different from Canadian education?

Bursary participants who apply for the Assessment of Educational Credential and Qualifications and are informed by CAPR that their education is substantially different to a Canadian-trained PT will still be reimbursed for the CAPR assessment fee. However, further funding under this bursary program will not be available.

The bursary funding cannot be used towards taking a physiotherapy degree from a Canadian institution.

You may still be able to fulfil the term of the Return of Service agreement if you obtain another type of health care position with a public sector employer.

Occupational Therapists

Do I need to be licensed to practice as an occupational therapist in British Columbia?
As an internationally educated occupational therapist (IEOT), what are the first steps in becoming licensed in BC?

For IEOTs, the process begins with the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO), the national credentialling body. You must apply to ACOTRO’s Substantial Equivalency Assessment System (SEAS) to evaluate whether your educations and competencies are substantially equivalent to those of a Canadian-educated occupational therapist.
Is there an English Language Proficiency Test?

If you were educated in a language other than English or French, you must achieve the minimum score in each language skill area on one of ACOTRO’s approved language tests. Language testing can also be completed prior to applying to SEAS. Language test results are valid for a period of two years from the date of the test.
What is the Internationally Educated Occupational Therapist (IEOT) Bursary Program?

Health Match BC, in partnership with the BC Ministry of Health and the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapist Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO), will support eligible IEOTs who want to work in BC by offering financial support to help pay for costs associated with credential assessment, English Language proficiency testing, exam preparation and gap filling courses.
Who is eligible to receive financial support through the IEOT bursary program?
IEOTs must commit to a Return of Service (ROS) agreement with the BC Ministry of Health to receive financial support through this program. The ROS agreement states that you intend to complete the full credentialing and licensure process with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC) and will work in BC with a public sector employer for a specified length of time.
You must also meet the following criteria:
You have initiated, or will be initiating, the Substantial Equivalency Assessment System (SEAS) program with ACOTRO.
You do NOT currently hold (or have previously held) registration as an Occupational Therapist in any other province or territory in Canada.
BC must be the only province or territory you have applied for registration as an Occupational Therapist. If you have active applications for registration in any other Canadian province or territory, those applications must be withdrawn.
Must have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN), a Canadian address and phone number, and Canadian bank account for direct deposit. Those without these requirements may still be eligible but will not receive payment until they have both a valid Canadian SIN and bank account.
Have incurred costs on or after July 19, 2022.
IEOTs who meet these criteria may already be somewhere along the pathway to full licensure with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC).
For more information and to see if you qualify, visit: https://alliedhealthjobsbc.ca/ieot-bursary/ or contact Health Match BC at otbursary@healthmatchbc.org
Who is NOT eligible for the IEOT bursary?
As an IEOT, you are NOT eligible for this bursary if you have:

Already had your credentials assessed with ACOTRO and it was determined that your education is substantially different to a Canadian-trained OT.

Already obtained full licensure with a Canadian provincial or territorial occupational therapy regulator (College).

Applicants who previously received bursaries for post-secondary training under Ministry of Health targeted programs may be ineligible for this bursary. Contact Health Match BC for further information.
What costs are not covered by the IEOT bursary program?

Although the bursary program covers a substantial amount of the overall costs that IEOTs pay to become licensed in BC, there are some costs that are not covered by the bursary.

Examples of costs that are not covered include transcript fees, document translation and notarization fees, regulatory college registration fees, and licensing exam fees.
When are funds provided to me? Is there any funding paid up front or are funds always provided by reimbursement? 
All funds are provided to the applicant through a reimbursement model:

Bursary participants who have completed Phases 1, 2, and 3 of the SEAS program and are waiting for their Determination Report from the Determination Committee are eligible for reimbursement upon providing proof of payment to Health Match BC, but must first receive a positive decision through the Determination Report. 

Bursary participants who have completed Phase 1 or Phases 1 and 2 and have not yet completed Phase 3 are eligible for reimbursement upon providing proof of payment to Health Match BC. Participants who receive reimbursement and are also informed by the Determination Committee that their education is substantially different to a Canadian-trained OT will not be eligible for further funding under this bursary program.  

A reimbursement process will also be used for all other costs, including the World Education Services assessment fee, fees for English language proficiency testing, and eligible supplemental education programs. 

Bursary reimbursement payments will be provided upon provision of proof of payment, and any other required documentation, to Health Match BC. A Canadian SIN, Canadian address and phone number, and Canadian bank account are required for reimbursement.  
What travel funding is provided?
How long does it take for IEOTs to complete the full pathway to licensure in BC?

The length of time for the full pathway to licensure depends on a variety of factors, including how quickly you can provide your documents to ACOTRO for the SEAS program, and whether you need to take additional education to help you to pass the qualifying exams.
Immigration routes may also impact the time it takes to become fully licensed to practice in BC. For more information see the immigration FAQ.
We recommend that you move through the pathway as quickly as possible to ensure that bursary funding remains available throughout your journey.
Visit the ACOTRO website for more information about the process to becoming credentialed and licensed to practice in Canada.
Visit the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC website for more information about becoming fully licensed to practice in BC.
What if my assessment demonstrates that my education is substantially different from Canadian education?

Participants who receive reimbursement and are informed by the Determination Committee that their education is substantially different to a Canadian-trained OT will not be eligible for further funding under this bursary program.
The bursary funding cannot be used towards taking an occupational therapist degree from a Canadian institution.
You may still be able to fulfil the term of the Return of Service agreement if you obtain another type of health care position with a public sector employer.

Medical Laboratory Technologists

What is the Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory Technologist (IEMLT) Bursary Program?

Health Match BC, in partnership with the BC Ministry of Health, will support eligible IEMLTs who want to work in BC by offering financial support to help pay for costs associated with credential assessment, English Language proficiency testing, courses assigned by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science to fulfil Technical Report/Learning Plan requirements, and optional bridging education.
Who is eligible to receive financial support through the IEMLT bursary program?
IEMLTs must commit to a Return of Service (ROS) agreement with the BC Ministry of Health to receive financial support through this program. The ROS agreement states that you intend to complete the full credentialing and certification process and will work in BC with a public sector employer for a specified length of time.
You must also meet the following criteria:
You have initiated, or will be initiating, the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process with Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS).
You do NOT currently hold (or have previously held) registration or certification, as a Medical Laboratory Technologist in any province or territory in Canada.
If you have active applications for registration or certification in any other Canadian province or territory, those applications must be withdrawn.
Must have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN), a Canadian address and phone number, and a Canadian bank account for direct deposit. Those without these requirements may still be eligible but will not receive payment until they have both a valid Canadian SIN and bank account.
Have incurred costs on or after July 19, 2022.
IEMLTs who meet these criteria may already be somewhere along the pathway to certification with the CSMLS.
Eligible expenses may be reimbursed if they were incurred on or after July 19, 2022, and all other eligibility criteria is met.
For more information and to see if you qualify, visit: https://alliedhealthjobsbc.ca/iemlt-bursary/ or contact Health Match BC at MLTbursary@healthmatchbc.org
Who is not eligible for the IEMLT bursary?
As an IEMLT, you are not eligible for this bursary if you have:

Already had your credentials, education, and work experience assessed (Prior Learning Assessment) with CSMLS and it was determined that your education and experience is not equivalent to the CSMLS MLT Competency Profile.

Have exhausted all of the exam attempts for the CSMLS MLT Competency Exam.

Already obtained certification with CSMLS as an MLT and/or registration with a Canadian provincial regulator (College).
What travel funding is provided? When will I be reimbursed?
Some IEMLTs may qualify for a travel stipend if they are currently residing in BC and need to travel to complete the optional MLT bridging education program at the Michener Institute in Toronto.

The amount provided is based on estimated travel-related costs & fuel consumption based on distance travelled (kms).

Travel allowance amount is based on location of primary residence, up to the maximum values below:

Locations 300km-1,000km or BC ferry = up to $750 CAD

Locations 1,000km-2,000km = up to $850 CAD

Locations 2,000km+ = up to $1,000 CAD

If you are eligible for the travel bursary, you will be reimbursed when you can provide proof of successful completion of the bridging education program and upon commencement of your Return of Service term with a Qualifying Employer. You will also need to provide proof of location of primary residence in British Columbia.

For proof of residence, you can submit one of the following documents showing your full name and address:

A utility (water, hydro, TV, internet) and/or cell phone bill (issued within the last two (2) months).

Any letter, statement, bill, or certificate issued by an insurance company registered in Canada, including home insurance, tenant insurance, auto insurance, or life insurance (issued within the last two (2) months).

Driver’s licence or vehicle registration.

Statements of account (e.g., bank account) from a Canadian bank or institution.
How long does it take for IEMLTs to complete the full pathway to certification to work in BC?

The length of time for the full pathway to certification depends on a variety of factors, including how quickly you can provide your documents to CSMLS for the Prior Learning Assessment, how quickly you complete your assigned Learning Plan, whether you enroll in the optional MLT Bridging Program to fulfil your Learning Plan requirements, and when you successfully challenge the CSMLS MLT Certification Exam.
Immigration routes will also impact the time it takes to become fully certified to practice in BC. For more information see the immigration FAQ.
We recommend that you move through the pathway as quickly as possible to ensure that bursary funding remains available throughout your journey.
Visit the CSMLS website for more information about the process to become certified to practice in Canada.
What if my PLA Technical Report demonstrates that my education and experience is not equivalent to CSMLS MLT Competency Profile)? (e.g. not CSMLS Recognized)

Bursary participants who apply for the Prior Learning Assessment and are informed by CSMLS that their education is not recognized will still be reimbursed for the CSMLS PLA fee. However, further funding under this bursary program will not be available.

The bursary funding cannot be used towards taking a medical laboratory technology diploma from a Canadian institution.

You may still be able to fulfil the term of the Return of Service agreement if you obtain another type of health care position with a public sector employer.

Medical Radiation Technologists

Is certification required to practice as a medical radiation technologist in BC?
As an internationally educated MRT, what are the first steps in becoming certified to practice in BC?

If you were educated and/or trained as a Medical Radiation Technologist outside of Canada, you must apply to the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) for an assessment to determine language proficiency, substantial similarity of qualifications, and work experience.
Is an English Language Proficiency test required?
Is the CAMRT certification exam mandatory?

Clinical Pharmacists

I am a U.S. graduate. Do I need to enrol in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada before applying to the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada?

Graduates who obtained their pharmacy education in the United States are required to enrol in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada and receive a National ID number before applying to the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). The PEBC will not be able to process applications from U.S. graduates unless a National ID number is provided. This does not apply to U.S. graduates who initiated the certification process with the PEBC prior to August 20, 2014.
If I received my pharmacy degree outside of Canada or the United States, what are the first steps in becoming certified to practice?

You are first required to register on the Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada and receive a National Identifier Number. You can then register with Pharmacy Examining Board of BC (PEBC) for Document Evaluation, whereby your educational and professional credentials are evaluated. At this stage, PEABC will confirm whether you may be eligible for the Streamlined Pathway at this time, in which case you may be exempt from the Evaluating Exam.
Do I have to be in Canada to enrol in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada?
Am I required to take an English Language Proficiency Test?

International Pharmacy Graduates are required to take a language proficiency test. Graduates from a Canadian pharmacy program accredited by the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) or an American program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) do not have to submit documentation verifying their proficiency in English.
As a US graduate am I required to take the PEABC Qualifying Exam?

Yes. One of the requirements for initial registration and licensure is certification of an applicant’s knowledge, skills and abilities at entry to practice. This certification is granted by the PEBC to those who successfully complete the PEBC Qualifying Examination – Part I (MCQ) and Part II (OSCE).

Sonographers

I received my sonography training outside of Canada, how do I pursue certification with Sonography Canada?

Sonography Canada’s Alternate Pathway Application is available to you. Once your application is approved, you would then proceed to completing the two components of the credential: the written examinations and the clinical component called the Canadian Clinical Skills Assessment (CCSA).
I passed the written knowledge-based exams – do I have a credential?
Am I required to complete an English Language Proficiency Testing?

For candidates who wish to write the Sonography Canada exams in English but for whom English is not their first language, Sonography Canada recommends candidates complete a language test. Sonography Canada does not require candidates to submit documentation of language fluency testing to be eligible for the exams. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure fluency prior to challenging the exams.

Return of Service

What is the Return of Service (ROS) Agreement?

The return of service (ROS) agreement is an agreement between you and the Province of British Columbia that you will complete 1 year of full-time continuous service (i.e. not a casual position) with a publicly funded health sector employer in BC. The ROS term is extended to two years if you obtain employment of 0.5 FTEs or less. The length service will also be extended to account for leaves of absence, if applicable.

Qualifying public sector employers will be defined in your ROS agreement document. They include regional health boards designated under section 4(1) of the Health Authorities Act, Provincial Health Services Authority (collectively a “Health Authority”), First Nations Health Authority or Providence Health Care or at a publicly funded long-term care or assisted living (AL) facility OR a publicly-funded private lab provider that is approved by the Province in writing.

Qualifying Employers do not include contract agencies supplying staffing solutions to eligible facilities.

As a bursary recipient, you must obtain employment with a Qualifying Employer within 6 months of obtaining full licensure or certification in your profession, unless otherwise extended by the province. Upon commencement of a Qualifying Position to start the Return of Service Term, you will submit a letter to the Province from the Qualifying Employer confirming the start date of the Return of Service Term, using the Province’s Return of Service Commencement Form and submitting it to: healthbursaries@gov.bc.ca
What happens if I cannot obtain licensure/certification?

The goal of the bursary program is to support you to gain employment in your field of training. Bursary program participants must use their best efforts to promptly obtain licensure or certification to practice in BC to obtain employment.
However, if licensure is not possible with reasonable efforts made (i.e., by taking supplemental education), you may be eligible to complete the ROS in a different “qualifying position” within the health care system. Individuals must contact the Ministry of Health (email healthbursaries@gov.bc.ca ) to confirm approved eligible positions considered for the fulfilment of the ROS commitment. The Ministry must review and approve alternative positions.
Do I have to pay back the money if I don't complete the licensure or certification process?

Yes, if you decide not to complete the process to become fully licensed or certified to practice in BC, you will need to repay any money received or fees waived through the bursary program to the Province of British Columbia.

If you are unsuccessful in passing the exams required to become licensed or certified to practice in BC, even after taking supplemental education, you can apply for an alternative job with a Qualifying Employer instead of paying back the funds. Individuals must contact the Ministry of Health (email healthbursaries@gov.bc.ca ) to confirm approved eligible positions considered for the fulfilment of the ROS commitment. The Ministry must review and approve alternative positions.
How do I pay back the money if I don't complete the process?
Do I need to sign more than one return of service (ROS)? i.e., one for each bursary amount received?
What if I cannot complete the full terms of the Return of Service (ROS)?

If you leave your Qualifying Position(s) for any reason before the ROS term is complete, you will be required to repay the province the amount of the bursary that is proportional to the percentage of the ROS term that has not been completed.

Recipients who do not meet the terms and obligations within the ROS agreement will be required to repay the bursary funds as explained in the agreements.

If you leave your job with a Qualifying Employer(s) for any reason during the ROS term, you will need to notify the Province at least two weeks in advance of your end date by contacting: healthbursaries@gov.bc.ca
Do I need to fulfill my return of service (ROS) in a specific community or region of BC?
What if I can’t find a job?

There are many job opportunities available across the province. Once you are licensed or certified to practice in BC, Health Match BC will assist you in finding a qualifying position. You are required to make your best efforts to find a qualifying position.

If it has been six months since licensure or certification and you are still unable to find a job to meet the ROS requirements, please contact the healthbursaries@gov.bc.ca
Can I change employers/jobs during my return of service (ROS)?
Is full time employment required or can I work two part-time jobs or casual to fulfill the return of service (ROS)?

You can concurrently hold and work in multiple, part-time Qualifying Positions, however casual employment does not meet the requirements of the ROS agreement.

The FTE (full time equivalent) for each Qualifying Position will be added together to calculate the FTE.

“FTE” means full-time equivalent, which is defined as 37.5 hours of work each week.

If you are working 0.5 FTEs or less, your ROS term will be extended to 2 years.
Can I take vacation, parental leave, or other leaves of absence during my return of service (ROS)?
I receive a job offer in another province where my family lives, can I transfer my return of service (ROS) to that province or can that province buy-out my return of service commitment with BC?
I am licensed/ certified or considering licensure/ certification in another Canadian jurisdiction. What are the implications to my Return of Service (ROS)?

If you are licensed/certified or have ever been licensed/certified in your allied health occupation in another Canadian province or terriority, you are not eligible for this program. If you have become licensed/ certified in another Canadian province or territory after you sign a return of service agreement, you will be withdrawn from the program and required to repay the Province any bursary amount(s) received, including any fees waived or reimbursed.
What happens at the end of my return of service (ROS) term? Do I need to contact the Ministry of Health?

Immigration

Can I apply for the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) – Health Authority Stream from outside of Canada?
Yes, however, you must be qualified for the offered position. For regulated health professions, you would normally require a license to practice in BC prior to being accepted into the BC PNP. You must also meet all other eligibility requirements of the program. This includes:

An offer of permanent, full-time employment with a provincial health authority

Meeting the education, training, experience, and qualification requirements outlined by the provincial health authority.

A written offer of employment on official company letterhead from the employer.

Evidence that you meet the minimum income requirements.

English language proficiency (if applicable).
Is Health Match BC my legal representative for the BC Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Health Authority pathway?

Health Match BC is not a legal representative for the BC PNP. Authorized representatives are immigration consultants who are full members in good standing with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, or lawyers who are members in good standing with the Law Society of BC or another law society in Canada. To apply to the BC PNP, you do not have to use an immigration consultant or lawyer.

The BC PNP reviews all applications equally, regardless of whether they were prepared with the assistance of a representative. Your application will not receive special attention or faster processing if it was completed using the services of a representative.
When should I start an application for the BC Provincial Nominee Program?
Can my family members also obtain Permanent Residency status?
My application for BC Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has been approved (nominated), am I eligible to work in BC?

A nomination by the BC PNP does not allow you to work. However, if you are nominated, you may be eligible to receive a work permit support letter issued by the BC PNP to help you obtain or renew a work permit. Work permit support letters also allow you to apply for a work permit without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

You must apply and obtain a temporary work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). While the BC PNP will provide post-nomination support, it does not apply for a work permit on your behalf. Nominees who do not have a valid work permit must apply for one within three months of your nomination date.
Can I apply for permanent residency before receiving a license to practice in BC and a job offer?
Where can I learn more about immigrating to BC and the BC PNP?

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Frequently Asked
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