CNO is launching the Interjurisdictional Nurse Licensure (INL) initiative. This initiative aims to help nurses maintain registration in multiple Canadian jurisdictions. It reduces the duplication of regulatory requirements and promotes nurses' ability to practice and support health care systems across Canada. We are collaborating with other Canadian nursing regulators on this initiative to enhance labour mobility in Canada.
By spearheading initiatives that enhance labor mobility and reduce administrative burdens, we are setting a standard for regulatory excellence and innovation. This proactive approach not only supports nurses but also strengthens the overall health care system across Canada.
“The goal of Interjurisdictional Nurse Licensure is to enhance labour mobility by easing the path to practicing across Canada,” said Silvie Crawford, Registrar/Executive Director & CEO of CNO. “Implementing INL will strengthen our position as a leader in patient safety in a rapidly changing health care environment. We understand the strategic importance of working together with other regulators for collective impact and quickly adapting to shifting demands in the health care system, while ensuring public safety.”
How does it work?
A nurse will have equivalent registration in two or more Canadian jurisdictions at the same time: their “home” and their “host” jurisdictions. A “home” jurisdiction is the Canadian jurisdiction in which you physically reside for the purposes of income taxes, and in which you are registered to practice. A “host” jurisdiction means one or more Canadian jurisdictions where you are registered in addition to your “home” jurisdiction.
You will be able to practice in both jurisdictions in the same class or category. For example, if you are an RN in your “home” jurisdiction, you can apply to practice as an RN in your “host” jurisdiction(s).
What are the benefits?
As an interjurisdictional registrant, you only have to complete the quality assurance (QA) requirements in your home jurisdiction. By complying with the quality assurance program in your home jurisdiction, the host jurisdiction will recognize that you have met your QA requirements. Another benefit is that CNO will offer a reduced annual fee when a nurse initially registers, during annual renewal or if they reinstate with CNO as their host jurisdiction.
CNO aims to implement INL after June Council. We will share more information when available.