Working as a travel nurse can have lots of benefits, not the least of which being the experience you gain while traveling around the world.
Travel nurses tend to work in difficult-to-fill specialties, so they’re highly sought after by hospitals that need their services. Click the link below to apply:
And, as long as you have some experience in your chosen field, you can enjoy freedom and flexibility when you travel on assignment as a travel nurse abroad and still make good money.
Here are eight of the top countries where travel nurses are needed now and why these areas are great places to start an international travel nursing career.
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1) Australia
The combination of warm, temperate weather and lifestyle options make Australia an ideal destination for both travel nurses and long-term travelers.
In fact, it’s been one of America’s top destinations for years; Australian cities are consistently ranked highly by those in search of a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Australia is home to plenty of scenic beaches along with wildlife sanctuaries, mountain ranges and national parks.
While living here is considered expensive by American standards, salaries tend to be high enough that many workers will find themselves earning more than they do at home.
2) Canada
If you’re thinking about traveling to work as a nurse, Canada is a great place to start.
Compared to other countries, it’s relatively easy for an American nurse to work in Canada.
The country has bilateral labor agreements with America that make it possible for an RN to travel there on an H-1B visa, making it unnecessary for them to obtain any other specialized accreditation.
However, nurses going north should be aware of some major differences between Canadian and U.S.
3) Ireland
Ireland is one of Europe’s top travel nurse destinations. Thanks to its vast natural beauty, wonderful people and a government that actively supports skilled professionals who want to move there, Ireland has become a hot spot for medical travelers who want to improve their lives while working abroad.
While Ireland doesn’t have as many opportunities as some other nations, those it does have are hard to beat.
4) South Africa
If you’re looking for a change of pace, South Africa offers a warm climate, rich cultural history and diverse wildlife.
Healthcare workers who are certified in South Africa get preference when applying for permanent positions.
High demand means that, on average, there is less competition for jobs in South Africa than other countries. Popular destinations include Cape Town and Durban.
5) UK
The United Kingdom boasts some of Europe’s best healthcare facilities and attracts top medical talent from around the world.
The education system is one of Western Europe’s finest, with fantastic facilities in all major towns and cities.
There are more than 400 NHS hospitals and thousands of GP surgeries across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to choose from.
A lot of nurses working abroad do so on an agency basis which means they will receive their pay directly from an agency or company.
If a nurse finds a permanent position during their time abroad they must inform their employer before leaving to ensure they remain qualified for work upon returning home.
6) The Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most beautiful countries and it’s also home to some of its best hospitals.
There are many different positions available in Amsterdam, but there is a major lack of health care workers in general due to an aging population.
The average salary for a nurse in Amsterdam is 20,885 euros annually and there are dozens of open positions just waiting for applicants. Find out more about becoming a travel nurse abroad here .
7) New Zealand
As New Zealand is known for its stunning scenery, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of work opportunities available in its tourism industry.
However, what might come as a surprise is that hospitals and other medical facilities in New Zealand also hire travel nurses to meet demand during their peak seasons.
With extensive training options and plenty of career growth potential, RNs who take on these employment positions will find themselves living in an adventure-filled wonderland with plenty of ways to relax and unwind after a long day at work.
8) Dubai
Dubai is a city that practically everyone has heard of. If you’re tired of just sitting around in your own backyard, then you might consider it.
The thriving Dubai economy makes for a high demand for healthcare workers. Best of all? Some pay as much as $3,000 USD per week! That’s more than some American states pay.
With its lavish shopping malls and world-famous attractions (hello, Burj Khalifa), there’s no shortage of things to do here either.
