How to Begin as a Travel Nurse

How to Become a Travel Nurse in Canada: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting a career as a travel nurse in Canada is one of the most exciting and rewarding steps you can take in your nursing journey. It’s not just a job. It’s an adventure filled with opportunities to explore new places, grow, and enjoy flexibility that traditional staff positions can’t offer. But before packing your bags, it’s important to understand what’s involved and set yourself up for success.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to confidently start your travel nursing career. From recognizing when you’re truly ready, to taking those first steps, preparing essential documents, and acing your interview.

Whether you’re a seasoned nurse looking for a change of pace or simply curious about the possibilities of traveling with Goodwill Staffing, we’re here to help you take that exciting first step toward your new adventure.

How Do You Know When You’re Ready for Travel Nursing?

The first step is making sure travel nursing is the right move for you. If you’re new to the concept, we recommend starting with our guide on what it means to be a travel nurse.

At Goodwill Staffing, we typically require at least two years of full-time experience in your specialty area. Travel nursing can be fast-paced and unpredictable, so it’s important to ensure every nurse placed feels confident and capable from day one. Being comfortable managing a varied patient load, responding independently to emergencies, and communicating clearly with new teams are all signs you’ve reached that level of experience.

If the idea of leaving your current job entirely feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to make an all-or-nothing choice. Many nurses choose to switch to casual or contract hours at their home facility while taking on travel assignments. This way, you can explore new opportunities while keeping a secure position to return to when your contract ends. It’s a flexible option that gives you the best of both worlds.

Make sure to check in with yourself!

Readiness isn’t just about technical skills; it’s also about mindset. Many nurses wonder if there’s a “perfect” time to make the leap, but the truth is, travel nursing often comes down to confidence, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change. Assignments can require you to hit the ground running, so if you’re comfortable learning new procedures quickly and adjusting to different environments, you’re already on the right track.

Successful travel nurses are naturally curious, resourceful, and open to new experiences. They view change as an opportunity to grow, meet new people, and gain exposure to different healthcare systems. If the thought of exploring new cities, working with diverse teams, and stepping outside your comfort zone excites you, you likely have the mindset needed to thrive as a travel nurse.

And let’s not forget: emotional resilience is key. Being away from familiar surroundings can feel challenging at times, but travel nurses who stay organized, maintain a positive outlook, and build quick connections with colleagues and patients often find the journey incredibly rewarding. If you’re ready to balance independence with adaptability, you’re well-prepared to begin your travel nursing adventure with Goodwill Staffing.

Where to Get Your Travel Nurse Career Started?

The best way to begin your journey is by visiting the Goodwill Staffing website. There, you’ll find everything you need to get connected with our dedicated recruiters and start matching with assignments.

Our Travel Nursing Application Form is quick and straightforward. It allows us to get to know you better, understand your preferences—such as where in Canada you’d love to work and for how long—and match you with opportunities that truly fit your goals. By submitting this form, you’ll also stay informed of new job openings as they come in.

Prefer to browse yourself? You can explore our live job board, which is updated in real time with urgent and upcoming needs from facilities across Canada. You can apply directly to any posting that catches your eye. Keep in mind that while this is a fast and simple approach, it doesn’t allow for the same level of personalized matching that comes with submitting the full application form.

Want an even more personal touch? Reach out to us directly! You can use our contact form or email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you and guide you through your options.

Documents You Should Have Prepared

Before you officially start your journey, having the right documents ready will make the onboarding process smooth and stress-free.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Identification and Work Eligibility: A professional headshot for your ID, work permit/PR/citizenship documents (e.g., passport photo), and a government-issued ID like a driver’s license.
  
• Health and Safety Records: Full immunization record (MMR, Tetanus/Diphtheria, Hep B, Varicella), proof of COVID vaccination, updated Tuberculosis test (within the past year), chest X-ray if needed, and a recent mask fit test (within two years). Be sure to review our Immunization Guideline to meet all requirements.
  
• Background Check: A current Vulnerable Sector Check from your local police department (completed within six months; online checks without an official logo won’t be accepted).
  
• Payroll and Compliance: VOID cheque or direct deposit form, SIN, and at least two professional references from supervisors or managers.
  
• Certifications: Health Care Provider BCLS (from a recognized Canadian in-person course), nursing diploma/degree, WHMIS training certificate, and any specialty certifications relevant to your field (ACLS, TNCC, CTAS, PALS, NRP, FHS, Critical Care, etc.).
  

Having these ready ahead of time means you can focus on the fun part: choosing your assignment and preparing for your next adventure.

Preparing for the Clinical Interview

The clinical interview is your final step before placement and a wonderful opportunity to show a facility that you’re ready to step into their environment and deliver exceptional patient care.

Preparation is key. Not just knowing your skills but feeling confident presenting them.

For example, you might be asked:

• “How do you prioritize your time?” Think of examples where you’ve managed multiple patients or urgent situations. Highlight how you decide what needs immediate attention, stay organized during busy shifts, and keep your team informed.
  
• “What mistakes have you made on the job?” It’s natural to make mistakes. What matters is how you handle them. Share a situation where you learned from an error and used that experience to improve. This shows honesty, resilience, and a commitment to growth; all qualities facilities value highly.
  

When preparing, ensure you have a quiet, distraction-free space, good lighting, and a clear camera view. Dress professionally and sit somewhere that allows you to maintain good posture and camera framing. (save the bed for post-interview relaxation!)

By practicing common questions and setting up a professional environment, you’ll project confidence and readiness. The two key factors in securing your next assignment.

A Travel Nurse Assignment is Waiting for You!

Starting your travel nursing career is an exciting, life-changing decision. From assessing your readiness, gathering documents, preparing for interviews, and understanding what to expect, every step you take builds confidence and sets you up for success.

With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll smoothly transition into travel nursing while enjoying the flexibility, adventure, and professional growth it brings.

At Goodwill Staffing, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from your first application to landing your ideal assignment and beyond.

If you’re ready to explore new opportunities, expand your skills, and make a meaningful impact in healthcare settings across Canada, now is the perfect time to begin your travel nursing journey with us.