By Mia Logan

January 27, 2025

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How to Have a Successful Nursing Career in a Foreign Country

The noble and fulfilling field of nursing is international. The prospect of fresh chances and experiences inspires many nurses to pursue their careers abroad. Whether you are thinking about relocating abroad to practice nursing or have already made the move, this guide will offer you insightful information and practical advice to help you have a prosperous nursing career abroad.

Research and Understand the Nursing Landscape

It’s essential to do extensive study and obtain a thorough understanding of the nursing environment in your selected location before starting your nursing career abroad. Learn about the country’s healthcare system, nursing license requirements, and rules governing the profession of nursing before you do anything else. Making educated selections regarding your professional path requires having a thorough understanding of the facilities that are available in that area, such as public hospitals, private clinics, and specialized care centers.

nursing career abroad

The process of comprehending the healthcare system has many facets. It entails exploring the system’s architecture, the financing of healthcare, the function of governmental organizations, and the unique difficulties it encounters. 

Knowing that every country has a different approach to healthcare can not only assist you in navigating it but also give your nursing practice some context. Researching the accessibility of healthcare resources, such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices, is important because it can affect the kind of care you can deliver.

Credential Evaluation and Licensure

You normally need to have your qualifications reviewed and receive the required licensure in order to practice nursing abroad. Start early because the process can be complicated and time-consuming. The licensure procedure is governed by nursing regulating authorities in several nations. Be ready to present proof of your education, training, and professional experience. In order to prove your competency in the language of the host nation, you might also need to pass language proficiency tests like the IELTS or TOEFL.

For nurses working abroad, obtaining the required certifications and licensure is frequently a big obstacle. It’s crucial to carefully acquire all necessary paperwork and follow all deadlines set forth by regulations. Depending on your area of specialization, some nations may demand additional qualifications or tests. Always check with the appropriate regulatory body and follow their guidelines precisely to ensure a smooth transition into your new nursing role.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

With the development of medical research and technology, nursing is a dynamic subject that is always changing. Make a commitment to continued professional development if you want your nursing career in a foreign nation to succeed. Keep up with the most recent clinical procedures, medical developments, and rules. Look for chances to complete extra training or receive certification in nursing specialties that are in demand in the country where you will be working. Continuous learning improves both your abilities and your value as a resource for your healthcare organization.

Professional growth encompasses management and leadership abilities in addition to clinical expertise. Consider pursuing advanced degrees in nursing or healthcare administration to enhance your career prospects and impact on patient care. This is particularly true if you’re interested in making the most of your time abroad and learning as much as you can about nursing and working with different kinds of patients. The only way to make that happen is by finding a professional facility like the amazing John Sagar Renal Centre, where you can learn everything you need and stay with patients who are getting healthier and healthier before your eyes!

Cultural Competency and Adaptability

Nursing entails dealing with individuals from various cultural backgrounds in addition to providing medical treatment. Building trust with patients and providing high-quality treatment both depend on developing cultural competency. Spend some time getting to know the locals’ traditions, faiths, and values. Accept the chance to fully immerse oneself in the culture and be receptive to new ideas and methods of operation. For a successful nursing career overseas, cultural awareness and the capacity to function well in a multicultural context are essential abilities.

nursing career abroad

Understanding cultural variations is only one aspect of cultural competency; respect for various viewpoints and behaviors is another. Recognizing that each patient may have particular healthcare ideas and preferences is important. Empathy, attentive listening, and a readiness to cater to specific needs are all necessary for establishing trust with patients. Your nursing practice will be enriched by accepting cultural variety, and you’ll be better prepared to give patients individualized treatment that takes into account their cultural environment.

Networking and Building Relationships

Success in any field, including nursing, depends on developing a strong professional network. To network with peers, mentors, and possible employers, attend nursing conferences, seminars, and workshops in your host nation. Become a member of nursing associations or organizations that are pertinent to your profession. Networking can help you find employment, get support and direction, and learn the intricacies of your region’s healthcare system.

In addition to helping your career, networking allows you to share your knowledge and learn from others’ experiences. Engage with local nurses and medical experts to learn more about the special possibilities and difficulties faced by your host nation. Creating connections with people at work and in the larger nursing community can help you grow as a professional and as a person.

Legal requirements and nursing ethics are global principles that direct the industry. Even in a foreign nation with distinct cultural norms and medical practices, it is crucial to uphold these standards. In your nursing practice, uphold the highest standards of integrity by respecting patient privacy, informed consent, and personal and professional boundaries. Make sure you are completely compliant by being familiar with the legislative framework governing nursing practice in your host nation. Following the law and ethical guidelines safeguards both your career and the profession of nursing as a whole.

Nursing practice involves fundamental ethical considerations that cut across cultural boundaries. You must put the needs of your patients first, respect their privacy and confidentiality, and act in their best interests. Learn about the nursing code of ethics in the nation where you are staying because it can have different rules or cultural quirks than what you are used to. Building confidence with patients, coworkers, and employers by consistently upholding ethical and legal standards enhances the standard of treatment.

It can be tremendously rewarding, both professionally and personally, to have a prosperous nursing career abroad. However, it necessitates thorough preparation, devotion, and ongoing learning. As you begin your nursing career abroad, keep in mind that there may be difficulties along the way, but with perseverance and the correct attitude, you can get through them and succeed in your chosen field. Following these recommendations will help you realize your career goals and have a good impact on healthcare systems all around the world. Nursing is a profession that is practiced all over the world. Your experience working as a nurse abroad will broaden your perspectives, aid in the well-being of many communities, and advance your professional development.

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Theodora Evans

June 9, 2024

218462 Views

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International Travel Nurse: 7 Best European Countries

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.

international travel nurse

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

international travel nurse

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

international travel nurse

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:

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By The Gypsy Nurse

March 18, 2023

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How International Travel Nursing Works

International Travel Nursing can be a complicated and time-consuming process.  If you are looking into International Travel nursing, we recommend allowing yourself a minimum of 6 months to prepare and obtain the required certifications, visas, and licensing.  The information below is not a conclusive listing.  It is a small representation of some steps needed to obtain a nursing position internationally.

International Travel Nursing

Canadian Travel Nurse Resources:

Nurse Registration
Obtaining Work Permit

International Travel Nursing
  • Completed application form and two recent passport-size photographs

  • Your present and previous passport or travel documents and those of any family members accompanying you
  • Copies of your birth certificate
  • Payment of processing fee ($150 CND per person)
  • Your educational certificates
  • Letters of reference from present and past employers
  • An offer of employment
  • Employment Validation (Labor Market Opinion) from Human Resources Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) 1
  • Registration with the College of Registered Nurses of BC or the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of BC (Provisional Registration will also be sufficient)
  • A medical examination by a designated medical practitioner on Canada’s designated medical practitioner’s list. A list of Practitioners can be obtained from Citizen and Immigration Services Web site:  www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/medical/index.asp.
  • Note: Medical instructions will usually be sent to you after you submit your application to the Canadian Consulate/Embassy; however, it is recommended that the medical be conducted as soon as possible after the date that the application for a work permit is submitted to the Canadian Consulate/Embassy.
  • “Application for a work permit” (IMM 1295)
  • “Document Checklist” (IMM 5488)
  • “Original receipt form” (IMM 5401) or payment receipt for fees paid online.

The whole process can take anywhere between 8 and 16 months to complete.

UK Travel Nursing Resources and Steps

international travel nursing
  • The first step is the IELTS academic test. IELTS website: www.ielts.org.
  • Requirements for EU/EEA/overseas nurses and midwives (via http://www.nmc-uk.org)
  • English language requirements.  Since 1 February 2007, our requirement for overseas-trained applicants to register is to achieve an overall score of 7.0 in the British Council’s International Language Testing Scheme (IELTS).
  • Pre-registration education.  AEIs providing either the Overseas Nurses Programme (ONP) or the Overseas midwives program must ensure that applicants have submitted a copy of their IELTS test scores before accepting them as students.

Applying for registration.  Applicants must take the IELTS test before registering and submitting their scores as part of their registration. The NMC will then independently confirm this score.

Complete Mandatory package

The initial package is pretty straightforward and includes an application request form, a form to accompany your birth certificate, a form to accompany your registration certificate, and an accompanying passport.

International travel nursing
  • Application request form
  • Please check your personal details and make any necessary amendments.
  • Complete the information about your IELTS exam.
  • Most people will apply for Registered Nurse–General, so please tick the appropriate box.
  • Forms to accompany your birth certificate, registration certificate, and passport
  • You are required to provide notarized/certified copies of your birth certificate, registration certificate, and passport. Please read the attached link on the requirements for certifying documents accepted by the NMC.
  • Please note that your registration certificate MUST be the original nursing certificate that you would have received when you first licensed as a registered nurse.
  • At this point, you will need to make payment to the NMC for your application. The current fee is £140 and is payable directly to the NMC. The easiest way to pay is by credit card over the phone, and the NMC contact number is +44 207 333 9333. Alternatively, you can send a cheque along with your mandatory forms, but you need to ensure that it is written in UK pounds (so you will need to request this from your bank, and there are usually fees involved for this).
  • Application Form
    • Personal Details – please check all your contact details are correct and make any necessary changes.
    • Primary and Secondary education – all years of school education before university need to be included, typically between 12-14 years.
    • Professional Education and Training – clearly list all nursing-related training.
    • Declaration of Good Health by Occupational Health Dept/Medical Practitioner – This section needs to be fully completed by your doctor and stamped with the doctor’s official stamp. If the doctor has no official stamp, they will need to write a letter on official letterhead. The letter
    • must include the applicant’s name and PRN, a state he/she doesn’t have a stamp, be signed, dated, and attached to the application form.
    • Reference Forms
    • Registration Authority/Licensing Board Declaration of Good health and character
  • Apply for a visa under one of the following:
    the Work permit holder or Tier 1 – General skilled visa routes
  • You may be required to complete the Overseas Nursing Program (depending on which tier visa you qualify for).

 Other Resources

There are other options for working overseas as a US Registered Nurse.  The option that I chose was to work with the US Department of Defense.  The DOD has nursing positions in international locations such as Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Japan.  The process, although slightly easier, is still a mound of paperwork and forms.  You can start your DOD search by going to https://www.usajobs.gov/.

If you are accepted for a position with the DOD, please contact me, as I have some additional resources that could be helpful as you transition into a DOD position in nursing.

The entire process, from filing my application to arrival in Germany, took about 8 months for me, but I know others only took 3 months.  Demand plays a large part in this.

Are you an international travel nurse? Do you have any tips to share for those considering international travel nursing? Comment them below.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By ONESTAFF MEDICAL

February 10, 2023

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Seize Global Opportunities: International Travel Nursing Await You

Onestaff Medical provided this article.

Have you been dreaming of traveling the world as a nurse? You’ve probably heard of Doctors Without Borders, but did you know that being an international nurse is also an option? International travel nursing gives nurses the opportunity to travel the globe while working and providing care to patients in need.

If you have ever considered traveling internationally as a nurse, keep reading to learn how to get started.

Keep in mind that OneStaff Medical does not offer international travel nursing contracts. We do, however, believe that our nurses should be informed of all of their options.

Can Travel Nurses Work Internationally?

Travel nurses can, in fact, work internationally. While some nurses elect to travel within the United States, others may want to see more of the world. There are numerous opportunities for nurses to travel internationally, but they aren’t always easy to find.

Just like the U.S., other countries also face widespread nursing shortages. In countries that have recently experienced a natural disaster or disease outbreak, nursing shortages are common. When nurses travel to these locations, they can learn valuable new skills, medical techniques, and even other languages.

International travel nursing might be the perfect next step in your career, but how do you get started in this unique profession?

How To Become an International Travel Nurse

Becoming an international travel nurse is very similar to doing so in the United States. You will need to have a valid license in the U.S., and you are likely going to need additional certifications or licenses to work in other countries. Since each country has different requirements, it is important to do your research to see what you will need to acquire prior to accepting an international travel nursing position.

Most countries will require visiting nurses to have the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a diploma from an LNP training program
  • Completion of clinical hours
  • A current nursing license with proof of licensing
  • Documentation of a passed National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) or equivalent LPN exam
  • Specific vaccinations prior to traveling

Working with a travel nursing agency that deals with international placements will be a major advantage for you. Your recruiter should be able to help you determine the qualifications you need for international travel nursing based on the locations you are considering. They can also help you find the placements that you are looking for.

Nurses that have certain specialties may be in higher demand overseas for many reasons. Specific diseases or illnesses are best cared for by nurses with particular specialties, making these nurses incredibly valuable. Before taking on international nursing jobs, you may want to consider certification or an advanced degree in one of the following:

  • Cardiology
  • Pediatrics
  • Anesthesia for ICU
  • Neonatal
  • Labor and Delivery
  • ER

If you have experience in one of these specialties, including it on your resume can help you land international nursing jobs in the countries of your choice. Gaining experience in one of these specialties prior to applying for international travel nursing contracts can help you land the gig you really want over other candidates.

If you have never traveled as a nurse before, we would recommend doing so domestically before you branch out to overseas assignments. Travel nursing isn’t for everyone, so it is best to test the waters before making a big commitment to a foreign assignment. International travel nursing can also come with a unique set of stressors, including:

  • New techniques
  • Foreign languages
  • Different culture
  • Different climate
  • Unfamiliar facilities

It is best to see how you handle the weight of a travel nursing assignment in the U.S. prior to adding these additional stressors with an international position.

What Places in the World Are Travel Nurses Most Needed?

International travel nurse jobs can be found all over the world, but there are certain parts of the world that have a higher need than others. Some of the countries with the most need include:

  • Australia
  • China
  • New Zealand
  • Middle Eastern countries

Although these countries have the most need, it is vital that nurses can communicate with other healthcare facility staff and their patients, so you will probably need to know the language well enough to communicate. For this reason, many nurses choose to travel to English-speaking countries. Those nurses who are fluent in another language are more valuable because they can be sent to non-English-speaking countries.

If you have dreams of working in a certain area of the world, it might be a good idea to start taking classes in the language(s) they speak in those areas. You might even need medicine-specific language training to effectively work in hospitals in these countries.

6 Tips for Being Successful as an International Travel Nurse

Now that you know how to become an international travel nurse, here are a few tips to help you find success on this new, exciting journey.

1.      Make Sure Your Nursing License Can Transfer

Licensure is critical in the nursing field, and that doesn’t change in other countries. Before you decide to accept a travel nursing position abroad, make sure that you have the required licensure. If not, do the work to get the license you need in place prior to accepting a position.

2.      Know What’s Required for Getting Hired Abroad

In addition to getting your licensing in order, make sure that you meet the other requirements for any position abroad that you are interested in. For example, a specialty may be required for some international travel nursing jobs. Understanding these requirements prior to searching for a position allows you time to learn and gain certifications in these areas.

To work legally in another country, you will also need a passport, a visa, a work permit, and potentially a sponsorship. Some countries will also require a birth certificate.

Professional references and college transcripts may also be requested. In some countries, facilities will want to verify your education and diploma against their own country’s standards.

Some countries also require certain vaccines before you are permitted to work there. If this is the case in the country you are pursuing work in, you will need to provide immunization records. You should look into all the requirements a country has before agreeing to a nursing position to ensure that you can meet its conditions.

All in all, it could take a year and a lot of money to be ready to leave for an international travel nursing job.

3.      Understand the Logistics of Each Assignment

In the U.S., most assignments are 13 weeks. There is a bit more variety in contract lengths abroad, but many last between one and two years. Shorter volunteer assignments are also common, although some shorter assignments will be paid, as well. Since these contracts look different than domestic ones, you need to make sure that your assignments aren’t overlapping or longer or shorter than you’re expecting.

During your stay, you will also need housing and food. You should determine what, if anything, is covered in your contract. These extra benefits could allow you to bring home more money at your assignment, but they aren’t going to be offered by every facility in every country.

Finally, salary expectations may also be different depending on the country, and you might have to research exchange rates and taxes to truly understand what your take-home pay will be. Your agency should be able to help you understand the pay and any additional benefits offered to you.

4.      Plan Out Necessary Expenses

Traveling abroad can be quite expensive, and you aren’t going to want to bring nearly as much as you would for a normal travel nursing assignment. Most travel nurses are accustomed to bringing only the essentials, but you will want to narrow down your packing list even more when you are flying across the world.

Depending on your destination, housing, utilities, food, and other basics may also be more costly. For example, American staples tend to be much more expensive when imported, especially on islands.

Once you understand what your take-home pay will be based on the local currency and its exchange rate with the U.S. dollar, you can start to create a budget based on average prices in the area you will be living in.

Since these assignments are often much longer than domestic stints, it is essential that you know what costs you are responsible for covering and what your compensation will allow you to afford in that country during your assignment.

5.      Weigh Benefits vs. Risks

There are always risks associated with taking a position in a foreign country. For most of us, leaving the United States means leaving our comfort zone where friends and family are nearby to help should times get rough. Other risks may include missing out on great jobs closer to home or being exposed to illnesses that you won’t find in the United States.

However, there are many benefits to leaving your comfort zone and gaining new experiences. In fact, many nurses talk extensively about all the benefits they have experienced, such as the joys of experiencing new cultures, foods, and places that they may otherwise have difficulty visiting. Much like domestic travel nursing, there is downtime for nurses to explore the region and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Since family may be far away, scheduling visits can be fun for both parties. Find a time when your family or friends can come visit and experience everything you enjoy in your temporary new home. You can also find time to visit home for a few days, as well.

6.      Understand What Opportunities Are Out There

Every country offers unique travel nursing experiences. It is important that any nurse interested in international traveling is aware of the numerous opportunities available to them. With so many different countries to choose from and multiple regions and types of facilities in each, there is so much to consider when looking into international travel nursing.

Before hopping on the first opportunity that arises, work with your agent to find the best assignment in a location that you can’t wait to visit.

How Much Do International Travel Nurses Get Paid?

Much like domestic travelers, international travel nurses are typically paid an hourly wage. For international travelers, there are several factors that determine pay, including:

  • Type of assignment
  • Location of assignment
  • Traveler’s qualifications and certifications

It is important to note that some overseas wages may be lower than what nurses are used to in the United States. Keep in mind that this could be due to a lower cost of living in that country or additional benefits that travelers will receive, such as:

Some countries also have tax-free assignments, where the travel nurses in that country aren’t expected to pay income tax on their wages, which can leave a lot more money in those nurses’ pockets.

If you are looking for an international assignment that pays well, here are the locations of the highest-paying international jobs:

  • Denmark
  • Luxembourg
  • Ireland
  • Norway
  • The Netherlands
  • Canada
  • The Middle East
  • The Virgin Islands

If you are interested in domestic travel as a nurse, contact OneStaff Medical today to start your journey with one of our knowledgeable recruiters. View our current job openings and talk to a recruiter about your next assignment.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

By Frank Hamilton

October 3, 2022

3002 Views

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How Can a Travel Nurse Learn & Overcome a Language Barrier?

The profession and duties of a travel nurse are similar to a staffing nurse that works in one location, but the resources they require for their job are different. For instance, if a staffing nurse has a language barrier with her patients, she can ask for assistance from the local translator who might be hired to the medical facility. A travel nurse doesn’t have this opportunity and has to learn to overcome language complexities on her own under any circumstances.

Language is very important for a travel nurse, as she has to understand her patients correctly as well as be understood by them in response. Surely, English is considered to be an international language that is known and available in various countries. However, there are still many locations where people don’t get any words in English, and travel nurses cannot predict what their new country will be like to learn a whole new language before moving. And travel nurses also don’t have enough spare time to learn new languages from scratch. Therefore, we would like to share the tips and hacks that will help travel nurses understand and overcome various language barriers.

Learn basic words and expressions peculiar to a new location

Travel nurses have several weeks before changing the location. It is the perfect time to find out more about the country and culture they are going to next, and also learn the basic vocabulary that will be useful for their work there. Travel nurses commonly know the words and phrases related to their duties and can write them down in another language to learn and memorize the correct pronunciation. The basic vocabulary will be quite enough for nurses. In urgent cases, you can always ask for assistance from the local doctors or nurses as well.

job board

Get language guides and dictionaries.

Phrasebooks are great helpers for people keen on traveling and travel due to their professions, like travel nurses. Such language guides commonly include all basic information about the language of your new location. The book is usually divided into certain subjects like transport, café, hospital, hotel and so on where you can find the suitable words and phrases to express yourself correctly. Phrasebooks are also small in size, and you can always take them to work to keep learning in your free time and look for the phrases you need to translate quickly.

Use online learning resources.

According to various posts from the custom writing service Best Essays Education, the approach to learning a new language for travel nurses depends on the duration of being in one or another country and place. For instance, if you stay in a certain location for a week or a bit longer, there is no need to attend learning courses and spend much money on education as language guides will be pretty enough for communication. However, if you are going to stay at a place for several months or even years, you should take a more serious approach to learning a new language. If you don’t have the opportunity to attend online classes for beginners, you can always find a suitable learning course online. Online courses have various types like speaking, writing, or combined. Just pick the most effective approach for you and learn wherever you are and whenever you have free time from your job.

Consider communication with native speakers.

The time needed to learn a foreign language from scratch and overcome a language barrier is very individual, as someone may need several months to speak well, while others may need years of deep learning to become proficient. Also, it depends on the complexity of the selected language. But no learning course can replace communication with native speakers. Instead of reading the language guides, spend some time talking with local people and practicing your speaking. Thus, you will learn much faster, more efficiently, and with more pleasure. But you still need to learn the basic vocabulary before moving on to talk with patients and be clearly understood.

Learn the language of gestures

Due to the writing reviews Trust My Paper, the language of gestures will be comprehensible in any part of the world. It is not obvious to learn all possible gesture combinations, but just learn the basics that will clearly convert the information for your patients and colleagues. Surely, it will add not much value to your language knowledge, but this approach will be your rescue at the very beginning.

Bottom line

Picking the right approach to learning the language and overcoming the language barrier is the key to becoming proficient in it in the short term. It is better to combine several methods of learning like reading the thematic literature, getting portable vocabulary and guides, and practicing your communication skills with native speakers.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Kate McPhail

May 19, 2018

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Canadian Travel Nurses in the U.S.

So you want to work as a travel nurse in the US but are currently working in Canada? The process is quite complex and can seem overwhelming, so I’ll try to break down the steps.

Timing – A Year in the Making

The process of getting licensed and ready to look and submit for current jobs actively could take almost a year, depending on processing times. Some travel companies advertise expedited service, but unfortunately, there is no quick way to move the process along.

I would caution about having a company reimburse you upfront for the costs due to the length of time from initial application to working long; if you decide not to travel, you will ultimately have to reimburse them for the costs. The specific company may not have work in the location you want to go to when you are authorized to work in the US and fulfill a certain number of assignments with them.

Also, as other travel nurses will advise you, any company reimbursement for car rentals, licenses, etc., all come out of the ‘total pay,’ and you would get less pay as the company would deduct those costs from the package. Either way, technically, you pay for it as, sadly, it isn’t free. The expenses of getting licensed would be a deduction, though, on your tax return if a company didn’t reimburse you.

It is a big change from nursing in Canada but can provide a great experience. If you’ve been a nurse for at least 2 years and have steady experience in your specialty, then you may want to head south for a new adventure.

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NCLEX and Licensing

The first step is to take the NCLEX exam. The majority of RNs in Canada took the CRNE, which was not recognized unless you took it in the 1970s. In 2015, the NCLEX replaced the CRNE in Canada as the national license exam. If you are like me, it may have been many years since you took the CRNE. There are many helpful resources (books, courses, tutorials, etc.) to help you study for the exam. The exam is very different from how nursing is practiced in Canada, and I recommend that you study and take the test lightly!

To take the NCLEX, you need to register with a US State Board of Nursing (BON) and apply for ‘Licensure by Exam for Foreign Educated Applicants.’ Here is where Canadian nurses can be frustrated. Every state board has different requirements for what they require on the application. Many require a Social Security Number (the equivalent of the Social Insurance Card in Canada), but some do not. Although you may not have any desire to work in your initial state, you can apply to endorse the license after your desired state (discussed below).

I was personally licensed in Minnesota, as they do not require an SSN for foreign applicants. I always recommend nurses check with the individual boards as their requirements can change often. Fill out the application as specified and mail in the documents requested.

Canadian License Verification

You will need to have your Canadian licenses verified by the provincial registration authority along with your school transcripts. Most charge a varying fee for that service and can take up to a month in my experience, to be processed and mailed out. These need to be mailed directly from the state board from the nursing authority or school or rejected.

Authorization to Test

Once all the required documents and fees have been approved, the BON will issue you the authorization to test (ATT), which allows you to register with Pearson Vue and take the NCLEX. It is only valid for 90 days, so you need to be ready to test quite soon.

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You then register online for a testing date and pay the exam fees. After testing, you will be notified if you are successful or unsuccessful at the test. If you passed, you would be officially licensed in that state, but you will need to repay the fees to the BON and the exam fees to retake it if you are unsuccessful.

State Applications

If you did take the NCLEX and not the CRNE in Canada, you would still need to apply with a state in the US to be licensed in the US. You will need to contact the specific boards on their requirements and required forms to complete, as having nurses in Canada writing the NCLEX is still new.

The Visa Screen

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX and are officially licensed, you are now able to apply for your Visa Screen. The Visa Screen is a Homeland Security document screening process mandatory for foreign-educated nurses who want to work in the US. It is NOT optional, and you will be unable to get a TN visa without it. CGFNS (is the company that you apply for the visa screen with. It is $540, and you apply online and then print and mail off the required documents to the nursing authorities and schools.

Be warned this takes a long time (6 months or longer on average). I have found that once a document is received in their office, it takes around a month to be entered into your file. Once all the documents they require are entered into your file, you have the option to pay another $500 for expedited processing. Without expedited processing, it commonly takes 1-3 months to be approved.

Ready to work!

Once you have passed the NCLEX, have a state license, and Visa Screen, you can now look for travel nursing jobs and connect with companies and recruiters. I have completed many travel assignments. I always ask prospective recruiters and companies whether they work with Canadian nurses and are familiar with the TN process. Not all companies are. Asking in advance can save you time with those who don’t.

License by Endorsement

If you don’t intend to work in the state, you are licensed. You will need to ‘Apply for endorsement’ to the state you want to work in. You will hear many states are ‘Quick licenses or Walk through’ by US-trained nurses. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that it is not the case for nurses not educated in the US.

Board of Nursing Requirements

All BON have varying requirements, from fingerprinting, transcripts, wanting Canadian license verifications, etc. Also, if working in New York is your plan, be aware you will need to reapply for a New York state screening with CGFNS again ($465), and takes 6 months. Also, some states require a Certified Education Screening (CES) Professional Report from CGFNS for Canadian nurses, which is ($350). I always advise nurses not to agree to a job without having a license in hand. Some boards will grant a license but only within a few days of starting a job (AZ, for example).

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TN Visa

So you have the NCLEX, Visa Screen, License(s), and contract…now it is time to get the TN visa. The TN visa is granted at the border only when you officially leave Canada and enter the US. You are not able to get it ahead of time, or they will reject your application. You will need to have the original paper copies of the following to present to the officer:

  • TN letter from your company
  • Visa Screen
  • Nursing Degree
  • License

Once you have the visa and are in your new city, you then take all the paperwork to the Social Security Administration office and apply in person for an SSN.

What I Wish I’d Known

While I have learned a ton while traveling and working in the US. There are, however, a few things that I wish I had known previously.

Shift Cancellations

One major difference between Canada to US nursing is that hospitals can cancel shifts if the census is low. You will have no sick time or paid vacation time which is different from Canada.

Previous Experience

You may find that many hospitals want to see the US nursing experience. Many times they will overlook your Canadian experience or previously completed travel contracts. Don’t give up. It may mean you need to take a contract somewhere other than your dream location to start with.

Credit Score

Keep in mind that your Canadian credit score doesn’t count here. You will start with zero credit. This means you will need to be prepared for high deposits for housing rentals, cell phones, cars, etc. Over time you will build your US credit score. You will also need to get a US bank account. Travel nurse companies will require a US account to deposit your pay.


As you can see, the process of becoming approved to work in the US is complex. I don’t regret investing. I have learned a lot, made lasting friendships, and had some wonderful experiences.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Bree Parker

August 14, 2013

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A Travel Nurse Relocating to Australia: Trials and Tribulations

As a Travel Nurse relocating to Australia is a scary prospect.

I’d thought I’d had greater culture shock in Miami, but starting my Australian nursing position changed my mind. Traveling halfway around the world with the uncertainty associated with moving to a new country can be overwhelming.

Although Australia is an English speaking country, their English may not be your English. Beyond deciphering the accent, one must understand the slang and acceptable verbiage. Culture shock is inevitable. When you think of your experiences as a travel nurse, culture shock might be a way of life for you. It might be dependent on your experiences or your background, but when one relocates to a different country…Everything might be different. 

There are many things to consider prior to accepting a job and relocating to another country. 

The populations are as diverse as any you might see in the United States. It’s normal to hear many languages as you walk down the street in the city.

Do you want to live in a rural or city setting?

In Australia, the large cities are located on the coast, and beyond the cities and suburbs are extremely rural areas. For instance, Sydney and its suburbs are sprawling. The Blue Mountains are approximately a two-hour drive from the central business district. After the blue mountains are the bush, you might drive 100 km without seeing anything other than kangaroos.

Housing is another consideration.

Sydney is one of the most expensive cities to live in. Did you know rent is paid weekly in Australia? Finding a home or apartment to rent can be time-consuming and very expensive. Prior to your move find a serviced apartment. These apartments are fully furnished and short term leases are available.  A corporate studio in Sydney can be as little as $350 per week to as much as $700 per week AU or more. It is location dependant.,  While Australia has a relatively low crime rate, there are still undesirable areas to live in. Another option to look into is renting a “holiday” property, but these can be very pricey.

Be wary of sites like Craig’s List, many travellers have lost money due to scams on Craig’s List. If you are interested in using the site, wait until you’ve arrived in Australia. This will allow you to actually view the rental property.

When you arrive in Australia, you will be overwhelmed and exhausted. The flights are long and the time difference is great. Currently, Sydney is 14 hours ahead of New York City and in the summer it’s 16 hours. Settling into a hotel or corporate apartment will make the transition easier. The last thing a traveler wants to worry about is where they will stay upon arrival. If you come to Australia via a medical recruitment company, they will assist in setting up a house for the first 3 months.

Try to arrive a week or two prior to starting work.

Adjusting to the time difference can take awhile. I arrived on a Monday morning. While I didn’t go to sleep until 9 pm that night, my body rebelled against every moment I was awake. Because I was excited to arrive, I had difficulty sleeping on the flight over. When I was in the United States, I rarely slept more than six hours a night, but for my first month in Australia, I slept 12-14 hours a day.

Availability of Transportation

Finding housing near public transportation is necessary. While you can drive on your American Driver’s license, actually jumping into a car and driving on the “wrong” side of the road can be rather stressful. There is traffic to contend with and the public transportation system in Australia is amazing. In my suburb of Sydney, I can go to 8 different bus stops within 600 meters from my apartment. The ferry wharf is a 10-minute walk. The buses will take me to the central train stations in approximately 15 minutes. I can take a train anywhere in the city.

Do not get an International Driver’s License. It’s a waste of time and money. You can drive on your US license while you are here. You cannot get an Australian license until you’ve been here six months unless you haven’t had a license prior to arriving. Licensing is in stages here. If you have only had an international license for a year or less, you will be granted provisional P1 privileges and if you’ve been licensed for less than three years, you’ll be granted a P2 license.

Each has restrictions such as speed limits and alcohol consumption. If you have a P1 license, you may not consume alcohol for 24 hours prior to driving and your top speed is 90 km/hour.

Telephone

Is your smartphone unlocked? You can purchase a SIM card for any of the mobile carriers at any of the shops. The SIM card is a $2 purchase. When I arrived, my fiance bought me SIM cards for all the carriers. It cost less than $10 AU. While in the United States, a majority of the population are in contracts with the major carriers, in Australia, the majority use prepaid plans.

Review the sites for the carrier and decide what you want. I spend $30 per month (far less than I did in the United States on my contract) I have 250 minutes to use. These can be used on international calls as well, plus data with free data on social networking sites.

Which mobile carrier you choose is up to you, but check which SIM card will give you the best service. In my first apartment in Sydney, I had no service with my current carrier.

Food/Groceries and Shopping

A trip to the shops will cost you far more. Groceries are much more expensive here, but you can still find deals. Since I use public transportation, I order my groceries online and have them delivered. The fees are minimal, but this offers me the opportunity to shop at the larger stores and purchasing the store brands will save a great deal of money

For instance, a case of coke costs $27.83. When I was home, I would normally buy a 24 pack of soda for work, taking two cans a night. I’ve since broken that habit.

Also You cannot bring any food into the country. You are able to find some American foods at grocery stores, but typically you can find an American “Lolly” (candy) store where you can purchase items like PopTarts or Hershey Kisses. Surprisingly, there are items I’d always taken for granted in the United States such as Crisco Shortening. You can use something called Copha, but it’s nothing like cooking with Crisco.

While there is no Walmart in Australia, there is Kmart and Big W. If you are looking for inexpensive household items, these two stores are the best place to shop. Although Target is available, it’s far more expensive than in the United States.

Banking/Legal

When you arrive in Australia, you need to apply for a bank account within 12 weeks of arrival. An application can be completed online or on a mobile site and only takes a few minutes. You will have to venture into a bank at some point to verify your identity.

You will need to apply for a Tax File Number. The application is simple and you’ll receive your number within 28 days via post. In order to be paid, you must have a TFN.

Other things to think about

  • Everything is more expensive.
  • You should have a decent nest egg. You’ll have to pay a bond (security deposit) for your apartment, plus weekly rent.
  • Transportation costs are high. A multi-ticket for public transportation can cost up to $61 per week depending on the zone chosen. Though if you are using only one type of public transportation, such as the bus, you can purchase a prepaid ticket for 10 trips.
  • Purchasing a car is costly. While there are many sites that post advertisements for cars, all cars are far more expensive here than in the United States. For example, a 2014 Kia Sportage runs about $18, 500 in the United States while in Australia, the same vehicle costs $37, 990. Buying a “cheap” car will cost you approximately $5000. If you are lucky, the registration will have will go for several months. When you register your car here, you must also pay for one year of insurance. Plus, if you finance a vehicle, you must purchase comprehensive insurance as well.

If you use an agency to relocate to Australia, they will help you through the overwhelming process. Either way, you’ll be in for the experience of a lifetime.

By Bree Parker

June 25, 2013

41735 Views

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The How-To Guide for Australia Travel Nurse

Getting Registered in Australia.

Are you considering Australian travel nursing?  Below you will find information on the process to begin Australian travel nursing to help you on your way.

The process of getting registered is a bit cumbersome, but once the applications are filled out, it’s just a matter of following the Agency’s instructions.

In Australia, Registered Nurses are registered through the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). There are offices in the capital city of each state. Although it’s a similar process to applying for licensure from state to state in the United States, the Agency has several additional requirements and fees for overseas applicants.

Firstly, the process is long. If you are considering traveling abroad in the next year, I’d recommend you start on the application immediately. When I sent my application to AHPRA, I was on assignment in Miami, Florida. I mailed it in early August knowing I had a flight scheduled to leave the United States in late October. By the time I had left, I hadn’t received any feedback from the Agency.

It was several months before AHPRA contacted me via email with a list of necessary documents Mine had not been specific enough for their requirements.

AHPRA requests verification of employment from your current job and certification of work experience for the past five years, plus a certification of your licenses from all states the nurse has been licensed in the past five years. Their requirements for letters from an employer are very specific: the length of time the nurse worked for the organization, whether it was full time or part-time, and it must be on company letterhead. A resume or CV is required as well with your signature on each page.

My waiting process was long due to the fact that I was in Australia when I received notification requesting more specific letters. All but one of my letters had left out “full or part-time”. AHPRA only accepts the original letters and mailing anything to Australia takes time.

I made several trips to the AHPRA office in Sydney over a few months. After I’d turned in all the required paperwork to what I’d hoped would be their satisfaction, I’d received another email asking for a letter from my high school stating my education was in English and requesting details of my clinical time.

My frustration peaked. I’d given the Agency transcripts of my undergraduate and graduate education, all in English and I’d graduated from high school over 19 years ago. It is my luck that my parents still live near my high school and were able to fetch such a letter.

When traveling abroad as a nurse, you are often required to take the IELTS or International English Language Testing System exam to provide evidence of education in English.

Australia allows exemption from such a test if you are from Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom, or the United States of America. If you are a citizen of one of the above countries, you need to provide evidence of your education being taught in English.

I took the exam about two weeks prior to received my registration. My reason for taking it was to help with my visa process. I was warned the exam was difficult, but if your education was in English; the test was akin to an eighth-grade test.

The fees associated with the application for Australia are $576 AU. It’s difficult to find an exact fee for an applicant from overseas on the AHPRA’s website, they will contact you prior to charging your credit card.

I mailed my registration application in early August and I was granted registration in March. When I spoke to my recruiter, I was told that this is a typical timeframe.

Lessons learned

  • International mail is slow and expensive; keep that in mind when filing your application.
  • All letters must be specific as to when you worked for an organization. The letter must be on company letterhead, including the dates you worked, and your status: full time or part-time.
  • Include a letter from your high school or take the IELTS, academic module. You’ll need to score a minimum of 7 in all three categories.
  • Any paperwork forwarded to AHPRA must be certified. All forms can be found online.
    • What does this mean?
    • Along with the application, you are required to send a photocopy of your licenses from the past five years, passport, and transcripts. Each page needs to be certified as a copy of the original. You’ll have to see a notary and the seal must be on each page submitted. If you happened to be in Australia when you submit the application, the employees at AHPRA will certify your documents.
  • Understand that the process is long and frustrating. Read any communication from the Agency carefully. The Registration Agents will give you instruction. For example, when I submitted the letter from my University with my clinical hours detailed, the administrator writing my letter used the course title similar to this: Care of the Young Adult, theory hours 75, clinical hours 125, but the Registration Agent wasn’t able to determine what this meant. She stated I didn’t have Medical/Surgical clinical in Nursing school although I clearly had. The terminology isn’t the same in Australia. Makes communication in any form is as specific as possible.

After you have been registered, you can now apply for jobs.

You must be sponsored by an organization that is allowed to sponsor employees from overseas. Many positions are listed in forums such as this: http://nswhealth.erecruit.com.au/ or you can contact companies that will find jobs for you, like Plexus Medical or Geneva Health. The application process is very simple. You send in your resume and they’ll contact you for an interview.

  • When I was interviewed, it was just a few questions. The recruiter wanted to know where I was currently; in Australia or outside Australia. She asked after my experience and what I was looking for. Within a few days, I had an interview at a Private hospital near Sydney.
  • If you are out of the country, they will do a phone interview or a skype interview. Most recruiters are privy to job postings that have not been offered to the general public. If you chose not to go through an agency, the process is similar but more time-consuming. It takes much longer to hear back from these postings.
  • The process for applying for a job through the recruiting sites is very much the same as applying for travel positions.
  • When you have been offered a position, a migration specialist from your new employer will contact you to assist with applying for your work visa. They’ll be able to direct you to the correct visa application.
  • If for some reason, your organization doesn’t have a migration specialist, you can use the Visa Wizard on Australia’s Immigration website.
  • Visas have online applications and aren’t too difficult to fill out. If you are outside Australia, the processing time is currently three months.

One other interesting tidbit about Australian registration. Being registered as a nurse in Australia allows for registration to be transferred to New Zealand. Again, it’s similar to transferring your licenses from state to state.

Good luck if you chose Australian Travel Nursing. The process might be frustrating, but it will lead to the adventure of a lifetime!


Want to learn more about Australian Travel Nursing….