Best Hospitals in British Columbia Hiring International Healthcare Workers

British Columbia’s stunning landscapes and high quality of life make it a top destination for healthcare professionals worldwide. Fortunately, the province’s health authorities are actively recruiting internationally educated nurses, doctors, and allied health staff to meet growing demand.

This guide covers the top hospitals and health authorities in BC hiring international workers, detailing their recruitment programs and how you can apply.

Why Work for a BC Health Authority?

Before we dive into specific employers, it’s important to understand the structure. In BC, most hospital jobs are managed through regional Health Authorities rather than individual hospitals. This means you apply to the health authority and may be placed at any of their facilities.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive Sponsorship: Most health authorities provide extensive support with immigration, licensing, and relocation.
• Structured Onboarding: Dedicated international recruitment teams guide you through the process.
• Career Mobility: Opportunities to transfer between different hospitals and communities within the same health authority.
• Competitive Benefits: Government pensions, union representation, and professional development opportunities.

Top Health Authorities & Hospitals Hiring International Workers

1. Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)

Regions Served: Vancouver, Richmond, North Shore, Sea-to-Sky, Sunshine Coast, Bella Bella, and Bella Coola.

Major Hospitals:

• Vancouver General Hospital
• Lions Gate Hospital (North Vancouver)
• Richmond Hospital
• UBC Hospital

Why They’re a Top Employer:
VCH manages some of BC’s largest tertiary care and teaching hospitals. They offer:

• Dedicated International Recruitment Team
• Comprehensive relocation support (including registration fees, flight, and temporary housing)
• Structured orientation and mentorship programs
• Opportunities across urban and coastal communities

How to Apply: Visit the VCH Careers website and search for positions marked “International Hires” or filter by your profession.

2. Fraser Health Authority

Regions Served: From Burnaby to Hope, covering the eastern metro Vancouver area and Fraser Valley.

Major Hospitals:

• Royal Columbian Hospital (New Westminster)
• Surrey Memorial Hospital
• Burnaby Hospital
• Abbotsford Regional Hospital

Why They’re a Top Employer:
Fraser Health serves BC’s fastest-growing population and has extensive experience with international recruitment:

• Established International Recruitment Program
• Financial support for licensing and immigration fees
• Temporary housing assistance
• Active in recruiting for both urban and suburban locations

How to Apply: Check the Fraser Health Careers page regularly for international hiring initiatives.

3. Providence Health Care

Focus: Specialized care in Vancouver, particularly in academic and research environments.

Major Hospitals:

• St. Paul’s Hospital (moving to new state-of-the-art facility in 2025)
• Mount Saint Joseph Hospital

Why They’re a Top Employer:
Providence offers unique opportunities in specialized care:

• Academic and research-focused environment
• Strong partnerships with the University of British Columbia
• Specialized recruitment for mental health, renal care, and urban health
• Comprehensive relocation package

How to Apply: Visit the Providence Health Care Careers website.

4. Island Health

Regions Served: All of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and some mainland communities.

Major Hospitals:

• Royal Jubilee Hospital (Victoria)
• Victoria General Hospital
• Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

Why They’re a Top Employer:
Island Health offers the perfect blend of professional opportunity and island lifestyle:

• Dedicated International Hiring Program
• Relocation assistance and settlement support
• Opportunities in vibrant cities and coastal communities
• Strong focus on work-life balance

How to Apply: Explore the Island Health Careers portal and look for international recruitment events.

Click Here To Learn More: The PEI PNP Healthcare Pathways: Your 2025 Complete Guide

5. Interior Health

Regions Served: The interior region of BC, including the Okanagan Valley and Kootenays.

Major Hospitals:

• Kelowna General Hospital
• Royal Inland Hospital (Kamloops)

Why They’re a Top Employer:
Interior Health combines growing career opportunities with affordable living and four-season recreation:

• Active international recruitment program
• Support with BC College of Nurses and Midwives registration
• Relocation assistance available
• Growing healthcare infrastructure with new facilities

How to Apply: Visit the Interior Health Careers website.

6. Northern Health

Regions Served: Northern BC, including Prince George and rural/remote communities.

Major Hospitals:

• University Hospital of Northern BC (Prince George)
• Mills Memorial Hospital (Terrace – new facility opening 2025)

Why They’re a Top Employer:
Northern Health offers unique incentives for those willing to work in northern communities:

• Northern and Rural Recruitment and Retention Bonus
• Comprehensive relocation packages
• Opportunities for a broader scope of practice
• Strong community connections and support

How to Apply: Check the Northern Health Careers page for current international openings.

Your 5-Step Action Plan to Get Hired

Step 1: Get Your Credentials in Order

• Nurses: Start your registration with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) immediately.
• Doctors: Begin the process with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (CPSBC).
• Allied Health: Contact your specific provincial regulatory body.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents

• Canadian-style resume (2 pages maximum)
• Cover letter tailored to each health authority
• Reference letters from previous employers
• Copies of credentials and certifications

Step 3: Apply Strategically

• Apply directly to the health authority career portals listed above
• Use keywords like “international,” “new graduate,” or “sponsorship available.”
• Create job alerts for your specific profession

Step 4: Prepare for the Interview

• Research the specific health authority and community
• Be ready to discuss your commitment to working in BC
• Prepare examples of your clinical experience
• Practice virtual interview skills (most initial interviews are online)

Step 5: Understand the Immigration Process

Most health authorities will guide you through:

• BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) application
• Work permit processing
• Temporary to Permanent Residence transition

Key Benefits Typically Offered

• Relocation assistance (up to $10,000+ in some cases)
• Temporary housing (30-90 days)
• Licensing fee reimbursement
• Immigration lawyer support
• Mentorship programs
• Signing bonuses (in high-need areas)

Pro Tips for Success in 2025

1. Start Early: The licensing process can take 6-12 months. Begin before you apply for jobs.
2. Be Flexible: Consider positions in regional or northern locations for faster hiring and additional incentives.
3. Use Health Match BC: This free provincial service helps internationally educated health professionals with job matching and settlement support.
4. Network: Connect with current international staff at BC hospitals on LinkedIn to learn about their experiences.

Your BC Hospital Job Search Checklist

• Initiated my BCCNM/CPSBC registration process
• Created profiles on all major BC health authority career sites
• Prepared my Canadian-style resume and cover letter
• Set up job alerts for my profession
• Researched BC communities to identify my preferred locations
• Joined relevant professional groups on social media

The demand for healthcare professionals in British Columbia has never been higher. By targeting these major health authorities and preparing a strong application, you can successfully launch your Canadian healthcare career in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.

Your skills are needed in British Columbia. Start your application today!