The Bottom Line
- CPSA states PRA is the required final step of an alternate path to independent practice in Alberta for certain applicants, and that IMGs from outside CPSA’s list of approved jurisdictions must pass PRA before joining the temporary Provisional Register.
- Alberta also publishes guidance about routes for IMGs certified in approved jurisdictions (a different pathway logic).
- Your strategy: determine which route you’re in (approved-jurisdiction route vs PRA route), then build a targeted file for that route only.
Do not mix pathways
Applicants commonly conflate Alberta’s “approved jurisdiction” logic with PRA requirements. Decide your category first, then prepare only the evidence relevant to that category.
Alberta route selection (fast)
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1) Identify whether you are from an “approved jurisdiction” (per CPSA lists/policy)
If you qualify, Alberta may have a different registration pathway. If you do not, PRA often becomes the gate.
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2) Read the CPSA PRA page line-by-line
CPSA describes PRA as the required final step of the alternate pathway and positions it as prerequisite before joining the temporary Provisional Register for certain IMGs.
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3) Build a “PRA-ready” evidence pack
Your pack should make it easy to verify: training history, practice history, scope, references, and any exam elements required by the program.
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4) Treat provisional registration as a supervised phase
Provisional registration is not the end-state. Plan how you will move from provisional constraints into stable practice and eventual full licensure.
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5) Plan for timelines and intake cycles
PRA intakes and processing times vary. Your edge is a complete file and early submission.
Alberta PRA “fast file” checklist
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Practice
Test your knowledge
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