Nursing is one of the most in-demand and rewarding careers globally. For qualified nurses seeking better opportunities abroad, salary is often a key consideration. In 2025, several countries are offering competitive pay packages, excellent working conditions, and strong support for international healthcare professionals. This article highlights the top countries where nurses earn the highest salaries and what you need to know before applying.
Factors That Affect Nursing Salaries
Before comparing salaries, it’s important to understand what influences how much nurses earn:
- Level of experience and specialization (e.g., ICU, surgical, pediatric nursing)
- Education level (e.g., BSN, MSN, NP)
- Country’s healthcare system and cost of living
- Whether the nurse is working in the public or private sector
- Overtime, night shifts, and union agreements
Top Countries With the Highest Nurse Salaries in 2025
1. United States
- Average Salary: USD $80,000 – $120,000/year
- Advanced Practice Nurses (NPs) can earn over $130,000/year
- Visa Options: H-1B, EB-3 Green Card, TN Visa (for Canadians)
- States like California, Massachusetts, and Hawaii offer the highest pay
2. Switzerland
- Average Salary: CHF 85,000 – CHF 110,000/year (approx. USD $95,000 – $123,000)
- Multilingual requirement (German, French, or Italian)
- High cost of living, but excellent healthcare system and quality of life
3. Australia
- Average Salary: AUD $70,000 – $110,000/year (approx. USD $46,000 – $73,000)
- Visa Options: TSS (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa, Permanent Residency pathways
- Extra pay for remote or rural work, night shifts, and senior roles
4. Canada
- Average Salary: CAD $65,000 – $95,000/year (approx. USD $48,000 – $70,000)
- Opportunities across provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia
- Pathways to permanent residency and family sponsorship
5. Norway
- Average Salary: NOK 500,000 – 700,000/year (approx. USD $47,000 – $66,000)
- Free healthcare, strong labor unions, and paid parental leave
- Must be proficient in Norwegian or willing to learn
6. United Kingdom
- Average Salary: GBP £27,000 – £40,000/year (approx. USD $34,000 – $50,000)
- Higher pay in private hospitals and for senior nurses or specialists
- Visa Options: Health and Care Worker Visa
7. Ireland
- Average Salary: EUR €35,000 – €55,000/year (approx. USD $38,000 – $60,000)
- English-speaking environment and EU labor protections
- Opportunities in public hospitals and private care homes
Other Noteworthy Countries
- Germany – average salary of €33,000 – €50,000/year, with growing demand for foreign nurses
- New Zealand – salary ranges from NZD $54,000 – $75,000/year, plus relocation support
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – tax-free income, salary ranges from USD $30,000 – $60,000/year
Qualifications and Licensing
To work as a nurse abroad, you usually need:
- A valid nursing degree or diploma
- Registered Nurse (RN) status in your home country
- Language proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or country-specific exams)
- Passing the licensing exam in the destination country (e.g., NCLEX for the U.S.)
- Credential evaluation and registration with the nursing council or board
Final Tips
- Compare salaries with the cost of living in each country
- Ensure you understand work permit or visa sponsorship rules before applying
- Look for relocation packages and licensing support from employers
- Specialize in high-demand fields such as critical care, geriatrics, or mental health
FAQs
Q: Which country is best for nurses looking to migrate?
A: It depends on your preferences. The U.S. and Switzerland offer the highest pay, while Canada and Australia offer balanced pay with immigration support.
Q: Can new nurses apply for international jobs?
A: Some countries prefer experience, but many offer programs or entry-level roles for newly qualified nurses, especially in rural areas.
Q: Do I need to take an exam to work abroad?
A: Yes. Most countries require foreign nurses to pass a licensing or registration exam (e.g., NCLEX, OSCE, AHPRA)
Conclusion
Nursing is a globally respected profession with strong earning potential. If you’re looking to advance your career and earn more, consider relocating to one of the countries with the highest salaries for nurses in 2025. With the right qualifications and preparation, you could be on your way to a better-paying and more rewarding nursing career abroad.