āYou Arenāt Trappedā: Hundreds of US Nurses Choose Canada Over Trumpās America
Published: February 26, 2026
Last month, Justin and Amy Miller packed their vehicles with three children, two dogs, a pet bearded dragon, and their belongings, driving 2,000 miles from Wisconsin to British Columbia to leave what they described as Trumpās America. They resettled on Vancouver Island, a scenic area accessible only by ferry or plane.
Justin now works in the emergency room at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, one of at least 20 U.S.-trained nurses hired there since April. Many nurses cited fear of the Trump administration as their reason for leaving the United States.
The Surge of American Healthcare Workers in Canada
Over 1,000 U.S.-trained nurses have been approved to work in British Columbia since April. Progressive Canadian policies, universal health care, and streamlined licensing processes in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia have attracted healthcare professionals seeking stability and safety. British Columbia also launched a $5 million campaign to recruit nurses from California, Oregon, and Washington.
Personal Stories and Motivations
Amy Miller, a nurse practitioner, said the couple moved their children out of fear that Trumpās second term would lead to violence. They initially obtained nursing licenses in New Zealand but switched to Canada after the job search took too long. Justin received a job offer within weeks, Amy within three months.
The Millersā fears were reinforced when federal agents clashed with protesters in Minneapolis on January 24, fatally shooting an ICU nurse, Alex Pretti. Video evidence showed Pretti appearing to shield a woman, though authorities labeled him a "domestic terrorist." The incident sparked national outrage.
Canadaās Nursing Shortage and Opportunities
Both the U.S. and Canada face severe nurse shortages. The U.S. is projected to need 270,000 registered nurses and 120,000 licensed practical nurses by 2028. In Canada, nursing vacancies tripled from 2018 to 2023, reaching nearly 42,000.
British Columbia has approved 1,028 U.S.-trained nurses since streamlining licensing in April 2025. In contrast, approvals in 2023 and 2024 were only 112 and 127, respectively. Ontario, Alberta, and the Canadian Nurses Association also confirmed increased interest from U.S. healthcare workers.
Experiences of Relocated Nurses
- Susan Fleishman, a Canadian who worked in U.S. ERs for 23 years, moved north in November due to political tensions and hateful rhetoric.
- Brandy Frye left California hospitals after witnessing diversity and equity language removed from paperwork.
- Many American nurses cited fear of violence and vigilantism, especially in families with same-sex couples, as motivation to move.
Recruitment Efforts and Community Impact
Events and online campaigns, such as those organized by Tod Maffin, have helped American healthcare workers relocate. Volunteers across Canada have replicated such efforts to attract professionals to communities with thin staffing, helping emergency rooms remain open and supporting local economies.
Expert Perspective
Healthcare workforce analysts say cross-border nurse migration isnāt new, but the current wave appears more influenced by political and social concerns than before. Many Canadian provinces have intentionally simplified licensing pathways to attract experienced nurses faster and fill urgent staffing gaps.
Hospital leaders in British Columbia report that internationally trained nurses are already helping stabilize emergency departments that once faced temporary closures due to staff shortages. Experts, however, warn that long-term workforce planning will be essential to keep healthcare systems balanced in both countries.
U.S. vs Canada Healthcare Comparison
| Factor | United States | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Model | Mixed private-public | Universal public system |
| Nurse Demand | Very high | Very high |
| Licensing Process | State-based, often lengthy | Streamlined in some provinces |
| Work Stability | Varies by employer | Generally more standardized |
| Immigration Pathways | Not applicable | Available for skilled workers |
Benefits and Challenges of Moving to Canada
Potential Benefits
- Access to a universal healthcare system
- Faster licensing in certain provinces
- Strong demand for experienced nurses
- Perceived workplace stability in many regions
Possible Challenges
- Relocation and immigration costs
- Adjustment to colder climate
- Licensing documentation requirements
- Differences in pay structures and taxes
How U.S. Nurses Can Apply to Work in Canada
Nurses who want to relocate usually follow a structured process. While exact requirements vary by province, the general pathway remains similar.
- Credential Assessment: Submit education and work history for evaluation.
- Provincial Licensing: Apply to the nursing regulatory body in your chosen province.
- Language Proof: Show English or French proficiency if required.
- Immigration Application: Apply through skilled worker or provincial nominee programs.
- Job Search and Relocation: Secure employment and plan your move.
What This Trend Means for North America
The rising movement of healthcare workers across the U.S.āCanada border highlights deeper workforce pressures. Analysts believe this trend could reshape regional healthcare hiring in the coming years.
- Competition for qualified nurses may increase
- More provinces may simplify licensing rules
- Cross-border recruitment campaigns could expand
- Workforce shortages may remain a long-term challenge
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are U.S.-trained nurses in demand in Canada?
Yes. Many Canadian provinces are actively recruiting experienced nurses to fill ongoing staffing shortages.
How long does Canadian nursing licensing take?
Processing times vary by province, but recent streamlining efforts have shortened timelines in several regions.
Do U.S. nurses need immigration approval to work in Canada?
In most cases, yes. Nurses must obtain the appropriate work authorization or permanent residency before employment.
Is the salary higher in Canada than in the U.S.?
It depends on the province, specialty, and employer. Pay can be comparable, but benefits and tax structures may differ.
This report is based on publicly available information and aims to present developments in healthcare workforce trends.
For more insights on system changes and regulations, read our detailed guide on healthcare policyand how it is shaping the future of medical staffing.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice.