10 Countries Where Nurses Are in High Demand: Discover the Best Opportunities Abroad
The global nursing shortage is a pressing issue affecting healthcare systems around the globe. With an aging population and rising chronic illness rates, the need for qualified nurses often surpasses supply. This situation presents nurses with the chance to either start or advance their international careers in regions with the most significant demand.
Identifying where nurse shortages are most severe can help you pinpoint the best locations for finding plentiful nursing jobs abroad. We’ve gathered and analyzed data to showcase 10 countries currently experiencing the highest demand for nurses, based on vacancy rates, aging populations, and growth in the healthcare sector.
1. United States
As the largest healthcare market worldwide, the United States faces a substantial and growing need for skilled nurses. The American Nurses Association forecasts a requirement for 1.3 million new registered nurses by 2024 to address the shortage created by an aging population and increased health insurance coverage. All 50 states will see varying degrees of nursing shortages.
Factors contributing to this high demand include an aging population with multiple chronic conditions, Medicare reimbursement cuts leading to staffing ratio adjustments, and many nurses nearing retirement. Major U.S. cities like Denver, Orlando, Phoenix, Seattle, and Tampa are projected to have the highest number of job openings. Registered nurses in San Francisco, for instance, earn a median salary of over $140,000 annually.
International nurses can work in the U.S. by passing the NCLEX-RN exam and obtaining a state license. Specialties such as critical care, oncology, and geriatrics can enhance your attractiveness to U.S. employers.
2. Australia
Australia’s aging population and universal healthcare system create a favorable environment for nurse employment. By 2030, over 20% of Australia’s population will be aged 65 and older, coupled with an aging nursing workforce.
Projections indicate a shortage of 85,000 nurses by 2025, with more than 123,000 positions open by 2030. Despite government efforts to increase nursing school enrollments, nearly half of Australia’s nurses are expected to retire within the next 10-15 years. Rural and regional areas face the toughest recruitment challenges, leading to attractive compensation packages and flexible schedules.
Registered nurses in Australia earn an average salary between AUD 73,000 and AUD 112,000 (USD 50,000 to USD 77,000) annually. High-demand specialties include emergency, critical care, mental health, aged care, and operating room nursing.
3. United Kingdom
The UK’s National Health Service is grappling with staffing issues intensified by an aging population and a significant shortage of nurses. England alone is short by over 36,000 nurses, and the UK will need an additional 190,000 nurses by 2027.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation, with many nurses leaving due to burnout. The NHS currently has one in ten nursing positions vacant. Major areas with the highest shortages include London, the Midlands, Yorkshire, and the South East. The average annual salary for registered nurses in the UK ranges from £24,000 to £40,000 (USD 29,000 to USD 48,000).
British citizenship or residency permits offer ample job opportunities within the NHS.
4. Canada
Canada needs to recruit over 199,000 additional nurses by 2030 to meet healthcare demands. With a significant portion of the nursing workforce expected to retire in the next decade, Canada is experiencing increasing demand due to its aging population and rising chronic illness rates. Ontario alone needs 77,000 more nurses.
Registered nurses in Canada earn competitive salaries, averaging CAD 70,000 (USD 52,000), and nurse practitioners make about CAD 95,000 (USD 71,000). Benefits often include pensions, paid leave, and tuition reimbursement. Internationally educated nurses can move to Canada by passing the NCLEX-RN exam and obtaining provincial licensure.
5. Germany
Germany faces a major challenge as approximately 500,000 nurses (40% of the workforce) are expected to retire by 2029. The aging population, with more than a quarter over 65 by 2030, is further driving the need for nursing care.
Language skills can enhance job prospects in Germany, though many positions in larger cities require only basic German fluency. Nurses earn between €40,000 and €50,000 (USD 43,000 to USD 54,000) annually. In high demand are specialties in geriatrics, ICU/critical care, cardiology, oncology, nephrology, and operating room nursing.
6. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia faces one of the most severe nursing shortages globally, with only 57% of positions currently filled. The government plans to create over 106,000 new nursing jobs by 2030 due to rapid healthcare sector expansion under Vision 2030.
Attractive benefits for foreign nurses include tax-free salaries and housing allowances, with senior nurses earning between USD 70,000 and USD 100,000+ annually. Saudi Arabia actively recruits nurses from countries like India, the Philippines, and South Africa. Licensing through the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties is required.
7. Singapore
Singapore is projected to face a shortage of 65,000 healthcare workers, including nurses, by 2030. One-third of Singapore’s nursing workforce is expected to retire within this period. The rising rates of chronic diseases and expanded medical services contribute to this demand.
Registered nurses in Singapore earn about SGD 55,000 (USD 40,000) annually, with higher salaries for advanced roles. English-speaking nurses will find easier integration, although foreign nurses must pass local exams and register with the Singapore Nursing Board.
8. New Zealand
New Zealand seeks to hire over 12,000 additional nurses by 2027 due to high attrition and increasing healthcare demands. Opportunities are available nationwide in community health, hospitals, aged care facilities, and various specialties.
Registered nurses in New Zealand typically earn between NZD 37,000 and NZD 56,000 annually. The country offers a high quality of life with stunning landscapes and a vibrant culture.
9. Denmark
Denmark anticipates worsening nurse shortages due to an aging population, with about one-third of Danish nurses approaching retirement. International nurses with strong English skills have excellent opportunities in Denmark.
Registered nurses in Denmark earn between USD 58,000 and USD 80,000 annually. The country offers a high quality of life and emphasizes work-life balance and patient-centered care.
10. Ireland
Ireland is experiencing a growing demand for nurses across various healthcare settings. Registered nurses earn between USD 32,000 and USD 56,000 annually. Despite a competitive field, Ireland offers a rich cultural experience and a welcoming environment for international nurses.
The Irish healthcare system values continuous improvement and the contributions of nursing professionals, making it an appealing destination for skilled nurses.
Conclusion
The global nursing shortage opens up numerous opportunities for qualified nurses to relocate abroad, especially to countries with significant aging populations. By targeting locations with high demand, you can benefit from higher salaries, signing bonuses, and other incentives designed to attract top talent.
