This practical, time-lined plan shows what to do first after arrival and how to sequence credentialing, exam prep, hands-on training and job search so the pathway from international dentist → Canadian-licensed dentist (or dental role) stays organized and efficient.
Immediate (first 0–2 weeks) — settle & document
- Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN), open a bank account, and apply for provincial health coverage.
- Gather and translate (certified) all academic records, degree/diploma, licence certificates, ID, and letters of good standing.
- Scan and back up everything (PDF). Keep original documents ready for notarization/primary-source checks.
Week 2–6 — choose a licensure route & start credential steps
- Decide the route: NDEB equivalency (for independent dentist licensure) or apply to a Canadian DDS/advanced-standing program. Begin the application process for the NDEB equivalency if that is the chosen path. ndeb-bned.ca+1
- Create an account with the NDEB, review required documents, and start primary-source verification and transcript submission. ndeb-bned.ca
- If considering work as a dental assistant while completing dentist licensure, check the NDAEB pathways (written exam + Clinical Practice Evaluation). ndaeb.ca
Month 1–3 — build clinical exposure & local credentials
- Arrange observerships/clinical shadowing in local dental clinics — these build Canadian experience and references.
- If moving to Ontario and planning to operate or assist with dental X-rays, complete a HARP (Healing Arts Radiation Protection)-approved dental radiography course to meet provincial X-ray safety requirements. Ontario
- Begin language-and-communication sharpening (clinical English / patient communication); many programs and regulators expect strong English (or French) ability for exam success. College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta
Month 3–6 — focused exam prep & hands-on training
- Prepare for the NDEB equivalency exams (AFK → ACJ → clinical assessments) or for DDS program interviews/entrance requirements. The equivalency process requires staged assessments—plan study blocks and mock exams. ndeb-bned.ca
- Join practical/practice labs or short clinical prep courses (manikin practice, simulation) to polish clinical skills and speed.
- If taking the dental-assistant route, register for NDAEB written exam and plan for the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) where required. ndaeb.ca
Month 6–12 — apply, network, volunteer, and attend events
- Apply for jobs aligned to the current qualification level (clinical assistant roles, receptionist/administrative roles in dental clinics, or supervised clinical positions). Use a Canadian-formatted CV and tailored cover letters.
- Volunteer at public dental clinics, community health events and student clinics to gain local references and demonstrate commitment.
- Attend provincial and national dental conferences, CPD events and local study groups — actively network and collect contacts. Join communities such as Canadie Dental to access training cohorts, job pools, and networking events (use these platforms to amplify job leads).
- Continue practical training and book NDEB/DDS exams when eligible. Note: an NDEB certificate is part of required steps but provincial licensure/registration is needed to practice — plan both federal (NDEB) and provincial submissions. ndeb-bned.ca+1
Ongoing / parallel actions (throughout the year)
- Keep a checklist of regulator requirements for the specific province of residence (each College has slightly different paperwork).
- Build a Canadian-style professional profile (LinkedIn + local CV), collect Canadian references, and prepare for interviews (mock interviews, clinical case discussion practice).
- Maintain CPD: take short courses (e.g., radiography/HARP if in Ontario), infection control, or specialty refreshers to stay current and attractive to employers. eCampusOntario
Quick checklist (documents & actions to have ready)
- Certified translations of all diplomas/transcripts
- Letters of good standing / licence verification from home country regulator
- ID / PR card / SIN / provincial health card
- Proof of vaccination / TB test / immunization records (clinic requirement)
- CV (Canadian format), references, malpractice/insurance info (when applying)
Final note
Follow a clear timeline, attack tasks in parallel (administration + credential submission + clinical exposure), and use every local opportunity to network, volunteer and gain references. For focused help — equivalency planning, exam-ready study plans, HARP courses, practical exam simulations, and job-search support — join beginners networks like Canadie Dental or contact training providers who run targeted cohorts and job-link programs.
Thank you