Licensing: Physiotherapists (Physical Therapists) – Canada

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Canadian Physiotherapists (Physical Therapists)

Most provincial/territorial regulators require that physiotherapists candidates pass the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) which is managed by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators, in order to be licensed. However, some jurisdictions allow PTs to work on a temporary license while waiting to complete the PCE. For more information on licensure, contact the licensing body in the province/territory in which you wish to work.

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Physical Therapists (Physiotherapists) from the US or Mexico

Anyone who was trained outside of Canada must apply for credentials assessment. If a PT's credentials are considered equivalent, then the PT is eligible to write the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) which is managed by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators. Successful passing of the PCE is required in each province/territory except Quebec.

Visa information: Physiotherapists (Physical Therapists) are covered under NAFTA. If you are a citizen of the USA or Mexico, you are eligible for a visa. Permanent Residents of the USA or Mexico are not eligible under NAFTA.

You can obtain an Employment Authorization (NAFTA Professional Status) from any Canadian port of entry, US-Canadian border crossing, or Canadian Consulate (or in Canada, if you are already in the country as a visitor). No sponsorship is required. Job Offer Validation is not required. However, you will still need to provide proof of an offer of employment from your employer in Canada. You must also meet the minimum education, experience, and licensing Requirements set for your profession.

Your documentation* you present must indicate:

*This documentation can include: a signed contract between you and an employer; a letter from your prospective employer confirming that employment has been offered and accepted; a letter from your current employer stating that you are entering another NAFTA member country to render services pursuant to a signed contract between your employer and an enterprise in that country.

The duration of the Employment Authorization is set for an initial period of one year. An unlimited number of one-year extensions may be subsequently obtained so long as you can show that the employment remains temporary, and that you continue to be qualified to work in your profession.

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Physical Therapists (Physiotherapists) from Outside North America

Anyone who was trained outside of Canada must apply for credentials assessment. If a PT's credentials are considered equivalent, then the PT is eligible to write the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) which is managed by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators. Successful passing of the PCE is required in each province/territory except Quebec, which has its own regulations.

Visa information: You are required to have a Canadian Employment Authorization before being allowed entry and employment in Canada. Sponsorship is often required. Please contact the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate to inquire about obtaining an Employment Authorization.

You can also find more information at the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.

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