RN and NP Registration Continues to Grow in Alberta

The College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) is pleased to share the results of the 2026-2027 renewal period. 

A total of 48,026 registrants renewed their permits, an increase of four per cent from the 2025-2026 practice year. 

Permit Renewal Highlights

The 48,026 renewed permits include:

• 46,812 registered nurses (including graduate nurses)
• 3 certified graduate nurses*
• 1,211 nurse practitioners (including neonatal nurse practitioners and graduate nurse practitioners)

Additionally, 4,677 individuals are registered in the CRNA's non-practising register. These individuals may be taking a break from practising for a variety of reasons and can return to practice in Alberta at any time by completing a return to practice application.

"It is encouraging to see continued growth in the number of registered nurses and nurse practitioners eligible to practise in Alberta. Every renewed permit reflects a registrant’s commitment to meeting professional requirements and helps ensure Albertans can continue to have confidence in safe, competent and ethical nursing care."

— Grace Brittain, Council Chair

The increase in renewed permits continues a recent trend of growth in the number of regulated nursing professionals eligible to practise in Alberta. Outside of renewal, nurses continue to join the CRNA’s register throughout the year. This includes recent graduates, nurses transferring from other Canadian or international jurisdictions and former registrants returning to practice.

"The continued growth of Alberta's nursing workforce is encouraging. As the profession grows in Alberta, so does the importance of effective regulatory oversight. The CRNA remains focused on ensuring registered nurses and nurse practitioners meet the requirements for practice, upholding professional accountability and protecting the public." 

— Andrew Douglas, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Registrar

The CRNA’s practice year runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. Registrants must renew their permits annually and demonstrate that they continue to meet the requirements for registration. Renewal is one of the ways the CRNA protects the public by helping ensure registered nurses and nurse practitioners provide safe, competent and ethical care.

More Information

Further details about the CRNA's renewal numbers, and how nurses move through the register can be found in the documents below.

*Certified graduate nurses are a legacy registration category, and no new individuals may be registered in this category.