Leaving your country searching for better job opportunities is not uncommon these days. Regardless of their profession, many individuals seek employment in a foreign country. If they believe that the standard of living, quality of life, and salaries are superior to those of their homeland. The situation is no different for travel nurses. If you are a travel nurse looking for a job in a European country, look at the list below for the 7 best European countries for international travel nurses to work in or travel to. They are listed in no particular order.
Best European Countries for International Travel Nurses to Work in or Travel to:
*Please note pay rates are subject to change
1. The Netherlands
The first destination on our list of the best European countries for international travel nurses to work in or travel to, and one you definitely cannot overlook, is the Netherlands. The Netherlands has one of the most stable economies and potentially the best healthcare system in Europe. It’s easy to see why health professionals flock to this country.
Having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that is accepted internationally is vital. Then, register with the BIG register (for healthcare professionals) to be able to work in the Netherlands. Next, obtain a work permit and see whether you need an employer to sponsor you. Also, while most Dutch people are fluent in English, understanding the local language will be a huge advantage. So, get to grips with it. €55,000, or roughly $60,500, is the average salary you can expect.
2. Germany
According to research published by the Federal Employment Agency, there is a massive shortage of nurses in Germany. For every 100 vacancies, there are only 19 geriatric nurse candidates. In addition to reforming its nursing training, Germany recruits professionals from other countries.
If you’re considering this destination, you will need a license. And quite possibly an adaptation course to ensure your language and professional skills meet the requirements. Moreover, you might need a visa, depending on where you are from. For the visa to be issued, you must take out the relevant insurance. Regardless of how long you will be staying in the country. While the salary may differ due to skills, experience, and location, a monthly average is around 3,500 EUR or $3850, which can amount to over €40,000 or $44,000 per year.
3. Switzerland
Germany’s southern neighbor – Switzerland – is another place with a shortage of nurses. However, the Swiss are a little more strict in accepting foreign workers. One of the prerequisites is that you speak at least one of their national languages, German, Italian, and/or French. Knowing only English is not acceptable, and you will have to pass an exam for one of those languages, depending on where you seek employment.
The Swiss Red Cross is in charge of overseeing all applications and credentials for foreigners. As of 2015, the cost of having your credentials evaluated is around €550 or a little over $600; it can take several months before it is completed. The average salary for nurses in Switzerland is around €52,000 or $57,000.
4. Luxembourg
Luxembourg might be a tiny country. However, its economy is anything but. While known as a tax haven, this micro-state nestled between Germany, Belgium, and France is also an amazing location for healthcare workers. The biggest downside here is probably the fact that due to its size, getting a job there is very difficult, and people sometimes wait for years for an opening. You must petition the Ministry of Health and obtain a visa to be considered for a position in Luxembourg.
However, if you manage to get your foot in the door, you will experience plenty of benefits. Seeing as how this country has the highest nurse salaries in the world – ranging from €54,000 to €113,000 or $59,000 to $124,000.
5. Norway
This Scandinavian country, home to countless gorgeous fjords, cannot be skipped when it comes to finding employment in the healthcare sector. Thanks to their socially progressive attitude and standard of living, it is no wonder that their healthcare system is top-notch as well. Due to longer life expectancy nowadays. It is thought that Norway will require more than 100,000 healthcare workers in the next 20 years. Most of them will have to come from other countries.
However, in order to work in this Nordic country; you will have to obtain a visa, speak Norwegian well, and receive certification from The Norwegian Registration Authority for Health Personnel (SAK). Salaries are usually upwards of €47,000, but some experienced and specialized nurses can earn even over €90,000 or $99,000.
6. Denmark
Another Scandinavian country finds itself on this list, and it is to be expected considering the quality of life in these northern nations. Seeing how healthcare in Denmark is financed by taxpayers and allows residents to receive medical aid more easily. If you’re planning on moving to this country, in addition to mastering the language, you should keep in mind that the government will have to give you authorization in order to get a work permit. However, you’ll be glad to hear that qualified and experienced practitioners with a degree are always welcome. In terms of money, you can expect around €44,000 euros a year or $48,400.
7. Ireland
A good option for English-speaking nurses, Ireland is another destination that provides variety and plenty of opportunities. Registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) is obligatory in order to be a nurse on the Emerald Isle. It is stressed not to move to Ireland or apply for a job before your credentials have been checked. And you’ve received certification from the Board.
An English proficiency exam is necessary regardless of whether you are a native English speaker or not. Then, applicants have to provide some info and go through a background check and fingerprinting. And naturally, a visa is also required. International travel nurse salaries here vary and can range from €30,000 to €58,000 or $33,000 to 63,800.
These are the seven best European countries when it comes to finding a job as an international travel nurse.
They provide amazing conditions and salaries for international travel nurses; however, make sure you have all the right documents and certificates and properly prepare for all possible exams. Good luck!
We hope that this article on the best European countries for international travel nurses to work in or travel to has helped you on your travel nurse journey. Are you an international travel nurse? Would you like to share your experiences with others? Comment below.
If you want more information on being an international travel nurse or volunteering, the following articles are great resources:
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