Who needs to be Licensed?

Individuals engaging in cosmetology for fee, gain, or expectation of reward or remuneration must be licensed by the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia by virtue of the Nova Scotia Cosmetology Act, 2012, c. 39 (the “Cosmetology Act”) and its By-Laws.

Apprenticeship Pilot Update?

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How do you get Licensed?

Cosmetology School / College: The Cosmetology Act requires Cosmetologists practicing in Nova Scotia to receive formal training for a minimum number of hours in a registered school or college of cosmetology as specified by the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia’s By-Laws. A student enrolled in a program at a registered school or college of cosmetology must register for and successfully pass the Provincial Examination to legally practice cosmetology in Nova Scotia.

Apprenticeship Pilot Project: The Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia has partnered with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency, and jointly developed a "Hairstylist" Pilot Project. This apprenticeship pathway to licensure requires Apprentices to complete 3,600 hours of training over two years (2,800 hours of on-the-job training combined with 800 hours of theory/technical training.) For more information on the apprenticeship pilot, please call the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia ext. 204, or visit the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency website. Click here for an update on the Pilot Project's Schedule of Activities.

What if I Studied in a Different Province or Country?

The Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia recognizes licence reciprocity, interprovincial standards (Red Seal,) and labour mobility policies. Cosmetologists from out of province or country seeking licensure in Nova Scotia must submit a Credential_Review_Application.pdf to the Association for assessment (more info on this below.) Please contact the Association to schedule an appointment if you require assistance with your application. Phone: (902) 468.6477 ext. 200 or contact the Credential Review Department.

Credential Review Applications are evaluated on an individual basis; this process may take up to six to eight weeks. Applications must be submitted as a complete package, and the prescribed fee of $150 (+ HST) must be paid in full. Please fill out the form in its entirety, and include as much supporting documentation as possible. Please pay special attention to the Application Checklist provided at the end of the application. PLEASE NOTE: Incomplete applications will expire if no contact is made with the Association within 90 days post submission. Click here to access the Credential Review Timeline, and here to access the Credential Review Appeal Process.

Links for International Applicants:
https://novascotia.ca/lae/RplLabourMobility/FRP.asp
https://novascotia.ca/lae/RplLabourMobility/LM.asp
https://novascotia.ca/lae/RplLabourMobility/IQR.asp
https://novascotiaimmigration.com/
http://www.flmm-fmmt.ca/
http://www.isans.ca/
https://novascotia.ca/employmentnovascotia/programs/start.asp