The College plans to discontinue the Non-Practising registration class as part of the new bylaws coming into effect on April 1, 2026, under the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA).
Who is affected
This change may affect:
- Registrants considering a transfer to the Non-Practising class before March 31, 2026
- Registrants currently in the Non-Practising class
- Registrants who may take a leave from practice and plan to return in the future
Why the Non-Practicing class is being discontinued
Non-Practicing registration does not provide a simplified pathway back to practice. Registrants in this class must meet the same reinstatement requirements as any former registrant when applying to return to the Full/Practicing class, therefore making the Non-Practicing class largely redundant.
Under the proposed HPOA bylaws:
- As of April 1, 2026, Full/Practising registrants will no longer be able to transfer to the Non-Practising class.
- Full/Practising registrants may still transfer to the non-practising class up to March 31, 2026 under the current bylaws.
Transition for current Non-Practising registrants
The College recognizes that changes to the Non-Practising registration category may be significant for some registrants, particularly those who identify as regulated but non-practising professionals. The College is committed to supporting current Non-Practising registrants through this transition and ensuring clarity about available options.
To support current Non-Practising registrants during the transition period:
- Existing Non-Practising registrations may be renewed until March 31, 2027.
- Registrants wishing to extend their Non-Practising registration must renew during their next scheduled renewal period in 2026:
- February–March (RMT, ND, TCMA)
- June–July (DC)
Non-Practising registrants may also allow their registration to lapse:
- By not renewing at the end of the current term; or
- By requesting cancellation in writing if they wish to end their registration before the expiry date.
Reinstatement to a practising category within 3 years since inactivity will continue to be a straightforward process should they choose to return to practice in the future. The College remains available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout this transition.
Taking a leave from practice
Registrants are not required to transfer to the Non-Practising class for short absences (temporary leave within a registration year) from practice and may maintain their Full/Practising registration. For longer absences (leave that involves multiple registration years), registrants may choose to cancel their registration and apply for reinstatement when they are ready to return.
Reinstatement requirements and fees are set out in the bylaws in effect at the time of application.
Review Your Registration Options
To contact a staff member to discuss how these changes may affect your registration, email registration@cchpbc.ca or call 604-742-6670 press 2 and then press 2 again. Choose the option for the profession that the questions are related to.
