Best Countries for Nurses in 2026

Why Nurses Are Moving Abroad in 2026

Global healthcare systems face severe strain from aging populations across Europe, North America, and the Pacific. The World Health Organization projects the global nursing shortage will reach several million by the end of the decade. Countries are actively competing for nursing professionals by raising salaries, offering relocation packages, streamlining visa pathways, and providing housing and financial incentives. Demand is expected to grow for decades, driven by demographics.

Key Factors That Determine the Best Countries for Nurses

• Salary vs. cost of living — A high nominal salary means less if rent and living costs consume most of it. Purchasing power must be assessed alongside headline figures.
• Demand driven by aging populations — Countries like Norway, Canada, Germany, Australia, and Ireland face consistent, long-term nursing shortages.
• Language requirements — Several of the highest-paying countries require fluency in a non-English language. This requires 12–24 months of dedicated study before licensing can begin.
• Licensing and credentialing — Each country runs its own process. Timelines range from a few months to over a year. Starting early is essential.
• Work-life balance and staff wellbeing — Countries such as Denmark and Norway embed wellbeing protections into law and healthcare culture.
• Residency pathways — Canada and Australia offer structured, time-bound routes to permanent residency for healthcare professionals.

The 10 Best Countries for Nurses in 2026

1. Switzerland — Highest-Paying Country for Nurses Globally

Average annual salary: $90,000–$107,000 USD

Switzerland is the single highest-paying country for nurses in the world. The healthcare system is world-class, and job security is strong due to nursing shortages caused by an aging population. Cost of living is approximately 66% higher than the United States, so purchasing power must be calculated carefully.

Language: Nurses must be fluent in the official language of the region where they work — German, French, or Italian. English is not accepted by the licensing authority.

Licensing: The Swiss Red Cross handles credential evaluation. A six-month paid apprenticeship is mandatory before full licensure. The evaluation process typically takes several months.

Best for: Nurses who already speak German, French, or Italian and are prepared to navigate a rigorous licensing process.

2. Australia — Best Non-European Country for Nursing Career Growth

Average annual salary: ~$82,000 USD (~115,000 AUD)

Australia projects a nursing shortage of more than 70,000 by 2035, making it one of the most nurse-friendly destinations for long-term career security. The Medicare-funded public system and private sector offer clear pathways to specialization in midwifery, mental health, and critical care. Australian healthcare culture emphasizes work-life balance. English is the working language, eliminating a major barrier for international nurses.

Language: English. Non-native speakers must pass IELTS or OET.

Licensing: Registration is handled through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The process typically takes 8–12 months. Skilled migration visas including the Subclass 190 provide routes to permanent residency.

Best for: English-speaking nurses who want high salaries, long-term residency options, and a high quality of life.

3. New Zealand — Best for Quality of Life in the Pacific

Average annual salary: ~$33,000–$43,000 USD (~55,000–70,000 NZD)

New Zealand has an ongoing nursing shortage, particularly in rural areas, aged care, and mental health nursing. The government actively recruits internationally trained nurses and offers additional financial incentives, faster residency pathways, and relocation support for those committing to regional or rural placements. The healthcare system is publicly funded with universal coverage. Shift structures are reported as manageable compared to more pressured healthcare environments.

Language: English. IELTS or OET required for non-native speakers.

Licensing: Handled by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ). English-speaking nurses find the process relatively straightforward. The skilled migrant pathway and healthcare worker visas provide clear routes to permanent residency, typically achievable within two to three years. New Zealand accepts U.S. nursing credentials as a starting point for assessment.

Note: New Zealand is geographically remote. Flights to the UK, Europe, or Asia are long and expensive.

Best for: English-speaking nurses who prioritize quality of life and a clear permanent residency pathway over maximum salary.

4. Malta — Best Mediterranean Base for International Nurses

Average annual salary: ~$25,000–$52,000 USD (€22,500–€48,000)

Malta has a growing demand for nurses driven by an aging population and over 500 current nursing vacancies. Both public and private sector opportunities exist in hospitals and nursing homes. Malta is an EU member state, meaning nurses registered in Malta can subsequently access nursing roles across EU countries, subject to local language requirements. After one year of experience as a registered nurse in Malta, applicants can apply for UK NMC registration with the CBT and OSCE examinations — IELTS/OET is waived because Malta is recognized as an English-speaking country by the NMC. After five years as a registered nurse in Malta, nurses can apply for an EU Blue Card (equivalent to permanent residency). Cost of living in Malta is moderate relative to Northern and Western Europe.

Language: English is widely used. Non-EU nurses must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS Academic overall band 6, or OET equivalent). Basic Medical Maltese is required within six months (diploma holders) or one year (degree holders) of appointment.

Licensing: Registration is handled by the Maltese Council for Nurses and Midwives (CNM). Non-EU nurses are required to complete a mandatory bridging program (minimum 200 hours of preceptorship plus theoretical assignments) before full registration.

Best for: International nurses — particularly from India and Southeast Asia — who want an EU entry point with an English-speaking environment, a stepping stone to the UK, and eventual EU Blue Card eligibility.

5. Luxembourg — Highest Nurse Salaries in the EU

Average annual salary: $87,000–$98,000 USD

Luxembourg is a small, wealthy nation in central Europe. It functions as a tax-efficient jurisdiction relative to its neighbors, meaning nurses typically retain more of their gross earnings. The healthcare system is exceptionally well-funded, with modern hospitals, low wait times, and structured treatment pathways. Its central location allows easy access to France, Germany, and Belgium.

Job openings are genuinely scarce given the country's size — competition is significant, and positions may require a wait of several years. Experience in geriatric care is particularly valued given the country's aging population.

Language: Proficiency in Luxembourgish, French, or German is required. Candidates may be tested at the request of the Minister of Health.

Best for: Experienced nurses with geriatric care backgrounds who speak French or German and are prepared for a selective, competitive market.

6. Denmark — Top Choice for Work-Life Balance in Europe

Average annual salary: $88,000–$94,000 USD

Denmark is the third-highest paying country for nurses globally. The universal healthcare system is decentralized but highly efficient, with strong investment in preventative care and community health. Labor protections are robust: generous pension contributions, structured career progression, and employer-supported continuing education are standard. The healthcare system places a specific and measurable emphasis on mental health in the workplace.

Language: Danish language proficiency is mandatory.

Licensing: The licensing exam through the Danish Patient Safety Authority is offered only twice per year. Non-EU nurses must secure a work visa before arriving. Denmark currently operates a temporary quota system limiting authorization applications from outside the EU/EEA through 2026.

Best for: Nurses who prioritize work-life balance and are committed to learning Danish.

7. Norway — Best Overall Package for International Nurses

Average annual salary: $70,000–$84,000 USD

Norway offers one of the most comprehensive social welfare systems in the world. Nurses receive access to healthcare coverage, parental leave, retirement benefits, and strong workplace protections. Life expectancy in Norway exceeds the global average by nearly 10 years — a figure directly driving long-term demand for healthcare professionals. Job security is excellent.

Language: Norwegian language proficiency is required. Most international nurses must complete a one-year training program before licensure. Applications from outside the EU/EEA take approximately 11 months to process.

Best for: Nurses who want the best combination of salary, social benefits, and work-life balance, and are willing to learn Norwegian.

8. Ireland — Best English-Speaking European Country for Nurses

Average annual salary: $61,000–$64,000 USD

Ireland is the standout choice among European countries for English-speaking nurses. The registration process through the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) is relatively accessible compared to continental Europe. Demand is growing due to an aging population, with expanding opportunities in mental health nursing, geriatric care, and community nursing. UK nurses find the transition particularly smooth given similar healthcare systems and shared professional standards.

Language: English. Post-Brexit, the visa landscape for British citizens has changed and should be verified thoroughly before applying.

Best for: English-speaking nurses who want a European base without a language barrier.

9. Germany — Fastest-Growing Demand for Nurses in Europe

Average annual salary: Up to ~$61,000 USD for senior positions

Germany has emerged as one of the most actively recruiting nations for international nursing professionals. Nursing shortages are acute, particularly in elderly care and hospital settings. The German government has significantly streamlined visa and professional recognition programs in recent years. Employers frequently provide relocation packages including visa application support, language training funding, and housing assistance. Specialization opportunities exist in geriatrics, pediatrics, oncology, and intensive care.

Language: B2-level German proficiency is non-negotiable. Employers widely support language learning for incoming international nurses.

Best for: Nurses willing to learn German who want a stable, growing market with strong employer support.

10. Canada — Best Country for Nurses Seeking Permanent Residency

Average annual salary: ~$74,000 USD

Canada consistently ranks among the best destinations for nurses seeking long-term residency. The Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) specifically prioritize healthcare professionals. Demand is strongest in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. The universal healthcare system provides competitive salaries and stable working conditions. Both English and French are official languages.

Licensing: Nurses must pass the NCLEX exam and meet provincial regulatory requirements. Registration takes 3–18 months depending on the province.

Best for: Nurses who want a clear, structured path from working visa to permanent residency.

Best European Countries for Nurses: Quick Comparison

What to Consider Before You Move

Language is often the deciding factor. The highest-paying countries in Europe — Switzerland, Luxembourg, Denmark, Norway — all require fluency in a non-English language. Factor in 12–24 months of dedicated language study before licensing applications can begin.

Licensing timelines vary widely. Canada: several months. Australia: 8–12 months. Denmark: exam twice yearly only. Start the process as early as possible, ideally before securing a job offer.

Cost of living adjusts real salary value. Switzerland's $100,000+ salary is offset by a cost of living 66% higher than the US. Norway and Denmark are also expensive. Ireland, Germany, Canada, and Malta offer a better balance between salary and affordability.

Aging populations create sustained, long-term demand. Countries with rapidly aging populations — Norway, Germany, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malta — are not facing a temporary shortage. Demand will increase for decades, providing long-term job security for international nurses who meet licensing requirements.

Malta offers a unique EU gateway. Nurses registered in Malta gain access to the broader EU job market and a pathway to UK registration after one year, making it a strategic first posting for non-EU nurses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the best country for nurses in 2026?

Switzerland offers the highest salary. Canada provides the clearest path to permanent residency. Ireland and Malta are the easiest entries for English speakers in Europe. Australia offers the best balance of salary, quality of life, and residency options outside Europe. Norway offers the best overall work-life balance and social benefits package.

2. What are the highest-paying countries for nurses?

Switzerland ($90,000–$107,000), Luxembourg ($87,000–$98,000), Denmark ($88,000–$94,000), and Australia (~$82,000 USD) are among the top-paying destinations globally.

3. What are the best European countries for English-speaking nurses?

Ireland is the primary option, followed by Malta — both operate in English and have accessible registration processes for internationally trained nurses.

4. Do I need a language exam?

In most of Europe, yes. German (B2) for Germany and Switzerland; Danish for Denmark; Norwegian for Norway; French, German, or Luxembourgish for Luxembourg. Ireland and Malta require English proficiency tests (IELTS or OET) for non-native speakers.

5. Can I bring my family?

Most countries allow dependent visas for spouses and children. In Canada, Australia, Germany, Ireland, and Malta, spouses are generally permitted to work. Requirements vary by country and should be verified with the relevant immigration authority.

Salary figures are based on data aggregated from government health authorities, recruitment platforms, and immigration advisory organizations as of 2025–2026. Figures are approximate and vary based on experience, specialization, region, and exchange rates. Always verify current salary and licensing requirements directly with the relevant national nursing authority before making career decisions.