The global nursing shortage has become a serious concern for healthcare systems worldwide. Aging populations, rising chronic illnesses, and a limited supply of qualified professionals have created strong demand for nurses in many countries. For nurses looking to expand their careers abroad, this situation presents excellent opportunities in regions where the need is highest.
1. United States
The United States faces one of the largest nursing shortages globally. The American Nurses Association estimates that the country will need around 1.3 million new registered nurses by 2025. All 50 states experience shortages, particularly cities like Denver, Phoenix, Seattle, Orlando, and Tampa.
The demand is driven by an aging population, chronic disease growth, and large numbers of nurses approaching retirement age. In cities like San Francisco, RN salaries can exceed $140,000 per year.
International nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain state licensure. Specialties such as critical care, oncology, and geriatrics are especially in demand.
2. Australia
Australia’s universal healthcare system and aging population make it one of the best destinations for nurses. By 2030, more than 20% of Australians will be over 65, while nearly half of the current nursing workforce may retire.
The country is projected to have 85,000 nursing vacancies by 2025 and more than 123,000 by 2030. Rural areas face the highest shortages, prompting competitive salary packages and benefits.
Registered nurses typically earn between $73,000 and $112,000 AUD. High-demand fields include aged care, emergency, mental health, critical care, and operating room nursing.
3. United Kingdom
The UK’s National Health Service continues to struggle with staffing shortages. England alone lacks over 36,000 nurses, and projections suggest the entire country will need around 190,000 additional nurses by 2027.
Burnout during the pandemic intensified the shortage. Regions most affected include London, Midlands, Yorkshire, and the South of England.
RN salaries generally range from £24,000 to £40,000. High-demand areas include emergency care, pediatrics, mental health, community nursing, and neonatal care.
4. Canada
Canada is expected to need more than 199,000 additional nurses by 2030. Nearly one-third of the nursing workforce is nearing retirement, while healthcare demand increases due to chronic illnesses and an aging population.
Ontario faces the highest pressure with an estimated need for 77,000 more nurses. Salaries average around $70,000 CAD for RNs and $95,000 CAD for nurse practitioners.
International nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain provincial licensure. Specialties such as oncology, cardiology, ICU, geriatrics, and pediatrics are highly sought after.
5. Germany
Germany faces one of the largest waves of nurse retirements in Europe. Nearly 500,000 nurses—around 40% of the workforce—will reach retirement age by 2029. The country also has one of the oldest populations globally, increasing the need for long-term care.
Basic German language skills greatly improve job prospects, though large city hospitals often support foreign nurses with language courses.
RN salaries generally range between €40,000 and €50,000. The highest-demand specialties include geriatrics, cardiology, ICU, nephrology, oncology, and operating room nursing.
6. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia currently fills only about 57% of its nursing positions. Under its Vision 2030 initiative, the country plans massive healthcare expansion, creating more than 106,000 new nursing jobs.
The country offers tax-free salaries, free or subsidized housing, annual flights, and generous vacation time. Senior nurses can earn between $70,000 and $100,000 USD or more each year.
Foreign nurses must obtain licensing through the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties.
7. Singapore
Singapore is projected to face a shortage of 65,000 healthcare workers by 2030. Around one-third of its nurses are expected to retire within the next decade.
The shortage is driven by an aging population and a growing number of specialized healthcare services. Opportunities exist in both public hospitals and private medical centers.
Registered nurses typically earn around S$55,000 (US$40,000) annually. Benefits often include bonuses, health insurance, retirement funds, and paid leave. English is widely spoken, making relocation easier for many international nurses.
8. New Zealand
New Zealand expects to need more than 12,000 nurses by 2027 due to rising healthcare demand and workforce attrition.
Nurses earn between $37,000 and $56,000 USD annually. Job opportunities exist across hospitals, aged care, community health, and specialized clinics.
The country prioritizes high-quality patient care and actively recruits foreign nurses.
9. Denmark
Denmark is heading toward intensified nurse shortages as nearly one-third of its workforce approaches retirement. With an aging population, international nurses with strong English skills can find abundant opportunities.
Registered nurses usually earn between $58,000 and $80,000 USD annually. Denmark is known for excellent work–life balance, a strong social system, and supportive working environments.
10. Ireland
Ireland continues to face a growing need for nursing professionals across hospitals, community health centers, and specialized care.
Salaries for registered nurses range from $32,000 to $56,000 USD. Ireland offers a welcoming culture, strong professional development, and an evolving healthcare system that values nursing contributions.
Conclusion
The worldwide nursing shortage has created excellent opportunities for nurses willing to work abroad. Nations with aging populations and stretched healthcare systems are actively recruiting international talent, offering attractive salaries and benefits.
Although the process of obtaining licenses and relocating may require time and effort, working abroad can significantly expand your career, improve your skills, and open doors to long-term professional growth.
