Occupation guide
Migrate as a Nurse
Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions globally. Countries with aging populations are actively recruiting qualified nurses from abroad, often with fast-tracked visa processes and relocation support.
Demand for nurses
The WHO estimates a global shortage of 5.9 million nurses. Countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and Germany offer dedicated healthcare visa streams to attract international nurses.
Best countries for nurses
Real visa routes, real demand, local pay.
Australia
- Visa route
- Subclass 482 / 186 (Employer Sponsored)
- Salary range
- AUD $65,000 to $90,000
- Why go
- Massive shortage in aged care and acute nursing. Employer sponsorship is common, and nursing is on the priority occupation list.
United Kingdom
- Visa route
- Health & Care Worker Visa
- Salary range
- £25,000 to £40,000
- Why go
- NHS actively recruits overseas nurses. The Health & Care Worker visa has reduced fees and faster processing.
Canada
- Visa route
- Express Entry / Provincial Nominee
- Salary range
- CAD $60,000 to $85,000
- Why go
- Nurses score well in Express Entry. Many provinces have specific healthcare nominee streams.
Germany
- Visa route
- Skilled Immigration Act
- Salary range
- €35,000 to €50,000
- Why go
- Germany's aging population creates strong demand. Qualification recognition process is well-established.
What you need
- Nursing degree (BSN or equivalent)
- Valid nursing license in home country
- English proficiency (IELTS 7.0 for most countries)
- Clinical experience (1+ years preferred)
- Background check and health clearance
Exams and assessments
- IELTS Academic or OET (Occupational English Test)
- ANMAC assessment (Australia)
- NMC registration (UK)
- NNAS assessment (Canada)
- Anerkennung qualification recognition (Germany)
FAQs
Do I need to take a local exam to practice nursing abroad?
It depends on the country. The UK requires an NMC OSCE exam, Australia requires an ANMAC assessment, and Canada requires an NNAS evaluation. Germany requires Anerkennung (qualification recognition). We guide you through the specific process for your target country.
Can I migrate as a nurse without experience?
Most countries prefer at least 1-2 years of clinical experience, but some (like the UK) accept newly qualified nurses through specific recruitment programs. Your chances improve significantly with experience.
How long does it take for a nurse to get a work visa?
The UK Health & Care Worker visa can be processed in 3-8 weeks. Australia's employer-sponsored route takes 3-6 months. Canada's Express Entry takes 6-12 months. Germany's process takes 3-6 months plus qualification recognition time.
Will my nursing degree be recognized abroad?
Most countries have a credential assessment process. Your degree from an accredited institution will generally be recognized, but you may need to complete bridging courses or pass local competency exams.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change often. Always confirm the current requirements on the official government website for your destination. How we research & source our guides.
Ready to move as a Nurse?
See which countries your age, education and English point to.
