Discover Physician Career Job Opportunities in Nova Scotia

Make your next career move your best one

Answer the call of the ocean! GPs and physicians of all specialties are in demand across Nova Scotia, supported by collaborative teams, meaningful incentives, and relocation assistance that makes moving easier than you might expect. With a direct path to licensure for U.S.-trained physicians, Nova Scotia offers a rare but accessible opportunity to advance your career while embracing a life with more balance, purpose, and possibility.

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Simple licensure pathway makes your move easy

Nova Scotia is the first province in Canada to offer a direct pathway to full medical licensure for U.S. physicians who’ve completed their American board exams. Royal College certification is not required, and enrolment in the appropriate U.S. continuing professional development program is accepted in place of Canadian maintenance programs. The result? A faster, more straightforward route to licensure with fewer barriers. So qualified U.S. physicians can begin practicing with confidence.

Licensing Information

A lifestyle that’s good for the soul

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee with ocean views; spending weekends exploring hiking trails, kayaking, or sampling local seafood; and returning home to communities where neighbours know your name. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant urban energy of Halifax, the charm of coastal towns, or the calm of rural living, Nova Scotia makes it easy to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a high quality of life that’s also surprisingly affordable.

A rewarding career full of opportunity

Physicians in Nova Scotia are part of a collaborative, well-resourced healthcare system with real scale and momentum. Nova Scotia Health operates 41 hospitals and a wide network of clinics and community programs, supported by more than 22,000 healthcare professionals. You’ll work alongside dedicated colleagues, enjoy access to leadership and professional development opportunities, and help deliver high-impact care. Here, your expertise is truly valued, and your career has room to grow.

Incentives, benefits, and relocation support for physicians

Choosing to move your medical career to a new province or country is a big decision. That’s why we’ve made it easier than ever to make the move, settle in to your job, and thrive.

Negotiated Benefits
Physicians in Nova Scotia enjoy a wide range of supports, including health and dental coverage, EMR grants, funded locum coverage, CME funding, and parental leave.

Site Visit Program
See what life and practice in Nova Scotia are like before making the move. Eligible physicians, plus one guest, can be reimbursed for a one-time visit to explore practice opportunities and experience our communities. Approval must be arranged through a Nova Scotia Health recruiter.

Relocation Reimbursement Allowance
Qualified candidates may receive up to $20,000 in relocation support to help cover travel, moving, and settlement costs, making your transition to the East Coast easy and worry-free.

Government Incentive Programs
Family physicians and specialists in the Central Zone may qualify for up to $75,000 in government incentives, while those practicing outside the Central Zone may receive up to $125,000 over five years.

Rural Specialist Retention Incentive
Specialist physicians working in Nova Scotia’s rural communities receive a $16,000 annual payment after three years of service, recognizing their ongoing commitment to regional care.

Physician Retirement Incentive
Nova Scotia offers annual retirement payments based on years of practice: up to $5,000 for five or fewer years; up to $10,000 for five–fifteen years; and up to $15,000 for more than fifteen years. This benefit applies to full- and part-time physicians providing patient care or clinical services.

Nova Scotia at a glance.

Life in Nova Scotia is shaped by the sea, with over 8,000 miles (13,000 km) of coastline waiting to be explored.

Image		68-77°F 20-25°C average summer temperature
Image		20 mins average commute time
Image		42 miles (67km) max. distance from ocean at all times
Image		$444,067 average home price in 2024
Image		Direct flights to locations like Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, New York, Florida, and Europe

Current job opportunities for physicians

Discover lots of exciting physician roles across Nova Scotia and find a position that fits your skills, goals, and lifestyle.

Explore current opportunities

Register your interest for a job with more benefits

Take the first step toward your new life and career in Nova Scotia. Register your interest to connect with a recruiter, explore exciting physician opportunities, and discover how easy it is to thrive both professionally and personally.