Pathway To Canada For Pakistani Medical Laboratory Technologist
A Pakistani Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) is eligible to apply for licensure in Canada, but it involves a comprehensive process to ensure their qualifications meet Canadian standards. Medical Laboratory Technology is a regulated profession in all Canadian provinces.
- Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) by CSMLS:
The first crucial step for internationally educated MLTs (IEMLTs) is to have their education and clinical work experience assessed by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS). This is called the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
The PLA process evaluates your credentials against Canadian entry-level standards for MLTs. CSMLS performs this assessment on behalf of most provincial regulatory bodies in Canada, providing a single point of access for IEMLTs.
The cost for the PLA is $1,540 CAD for CSMLS members and $1,850 CAD for non-CSMLS members.
- CSMLS National Certification Examination:
Once your PLA is successfully completed and CSMLS deems you eligible, you will be able to write the CSMLS National Certification MLT Examination.
Passing this exam is a mandatory step for certification in most Canadian provinces. The exam tests your knowledge and ability to apply it according to Canadian competency profiles.
- Provincial Licensure/Registration:
After successfully passing the CSMLS certification exam, you will need to apply for licensure/registration with the provincial regulatory body where you intend to work.
- Benefit Of Provisional (Temporary) Registration:
This allows you to work under supervision while you meet the remaining requirements, particularly while you are awaiting your CSMLS exam results or if you are deemed eligible to write the exam.
Provinces Where Provisional Registration May Be Available (and how to inquire):
- Saskatchewan
- Availability: Provisional licenses are issued for a limited time (less than a full year). They require the applicant to work under supervision, and both the applicant and employer must sign a supervision form.
- Alberta
- Availability: The CMLTA has different registration pathways. While not explicitly termed “provisional” for IEMLTs on their general information, their “Initial Registration” pathway for new graduates and IEMLTs allows for registration upon successful completion of the CSMLS exam. They might have options for those awaiting exam results or requiring supervised practice.
After Provisional Registration
Within one (1) year of receipt of a Provisional MLT Practice Permit, you are required to complete 900 MLT practice hours
- Fulfill Provisional Conditions: If granted provisional registration, you will have specific conditions to meet (e.g., passing the CSMLS/CAMLPR exam within a certain timeframe, working under direct supervision, completing additional training).
- Apply for Full Registration: Once all conditions are met, you can apply for full, active practicing registration.
The MLT certification exams are administered by the CSMLS. The exams are:
- Non-Resident of Canada:
- CSMLS Member: $1,910 CAD
- Non-Member: $2,210 CAD
1.General Medical Laboratory Technology which assesses Biochemistry, Hematology, Histology, Microbiology, Phlebotomy and Transfusion Science
2.Diagnostic Cytology which assesses Cytology and Histology
3.Clinical Genetic Technology which assesses Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics
- Exam Location: All CSMLS exams must be written in Canada, regardless of the testing method (in-person testing at a test center or remotely proctored testing from home).
- Exam Dates: The CSMLS National Entry to Practice Examination is typically given three times per year: February, June, and October.
CONTACT
MAHMOOD SALEEM
Advocate High Court
Immigration Consultant
Call 0321-4314001
WhatsApp 0333-5769655