L’Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec (OPQ) Licensure Requirements

Education and Training Equivalency

• Evaluation Process: The OPQ evaluates candidates' educational background, including course descriptions and certifications, to determine if it meets Quebec’s standards. Candidates may be required to complete additional training based on this assessment.

• French Graduates: Quebec has a mutual recognition agreement with France. Graduates from France do not need to enroll in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada and should follow the OPQ-specific process.

• Other International Graduates: Graduates from outside France may opt to obtain a Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) Certificate, but this is not required by the OPQ.

Required Documents for Application

Candidates from outside France must submit:

• Passport photo with signature

• Identification (birth certificate or proof of citizenship)

• University transcript (course descriptions and credits)

• Certified pharmacy diploma copy

• Practical training completion proof

• Proof of relevant continuing education

• Details of work experience

• Eligibility to practice pharmacy in another jurisdiction

• Recommendation letter from regulatory authority

• List of publications (if any)

• All documents must be translated into French if they are in another language.

Evaluation Decision

Once documents are reviewed, the Comité de l’admission à la pratique (CAP) assesses equivalency and notifies candidates in writing. CAP meets thrice yearly: May, October, and December. Candidates may be advised to complete additional courses or practical experience if full equivalency is not granted.

Language Requirement

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in French to meet OPQ requirements for practicing in Quebec.

OPQ Licensure Process and Costs

* Fee per attempt: Up to four attempts allowed. Note: Total may vary depending on attempts made for the PEBC examinations.

Financial Overview for IPGs

To work as a pharmacist in Canada, IPGs should budget for various fees, including Gateway enrollment, document evaluations, exams, and licensing. Additional expenses for further education may apply if training is required to meet Canadian standards.

Cost Breakdown:

• Licensing Fees: Each stage has distinct fees, such as PEBC exams (if chosen), bridging programs, and French language proficiency.

• Provincial Variation: Fees differ by province; candidates can refer to the OPQ’s “How to Apply” section for up-to-date fees.

Additional Costs to Consider

1. Supplementary Education:

• IPGs may require extra language or pharmacy training, incurring costs for courses, tutors, or study resources.

2. Exam Travel Costs:

• Candidates outside major Canadian cities should prepare for potential travel and accommodation expenses for exams.

3. Immigration Fees:

• Immigration expenses, if applicable, must be considered. Details can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

4. Living Expenses:

• Living costs vary across Canada and should be factored into financial planning for licensure.