Can Travel Nurses Go Out of the Country? What You Need to Know Before You Work Abroad

If you’re a travel nurse and you’ve ever dreamed of combining your career with international adventure, you’ve probably wondered: can travel nurses go out of the country? The short answer is yes—nurses can work abroad. But the process involves more than just packing your bags and catching a flight. From licensure to visa requirements to finding the right contracts, here’s what you need to know about working as a travel nurse internationally.

Yes, Travel Nurses Can Work Internationally

As a licensed nurse, you’re not limited to domestic assignments. Many countries actively recruit foreign nurses to fill staffing shortages, provide specialized care, or offer temporary help during health crises. However, the term “travel nurse” as it’s used in the U.S. may not exist in the same form abroad. Instead, you may be hired as an international nurse, agency nurse, or temporary contract nurse in another healthcare system.

Where Can Travel Nurses Work Internationally?

The most popular countries for travel or contract nursing include:

• Canada: Offers opportunities in both public and private health sectors, often requiring NCLEX and Canadian licensure.
• Australia and New Zealand: English-speaking, with similar healthcare standards to the U.S. You’ll need local registration and often at least one year of experience.
• United Kingdom: Requires nurses to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and complete a language proficiency test.
• Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar): High demand and attractive salaries, often with benefits like housing and travel allowances. Contracts are usually 1–2 years.
• European countries: Language barriers and licensing requirements can make it more complex, but opportunities exist, especially for those fluent in local languages.

Each country has its own licensing and immigration processes, so your path will depend on where you want to go and what kind of nursing you want to do.

What Credentials Do You Need?

Most countries require foreign nurses to:

• Hold an active RN license from their home country
• Have a minimum of 1–2 years of clinical experience
• Pass a licensing exam or evaluation (like the NCLEX, OSCE, or country-specific exams)
• Demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS or OET scores may be required)
• Complete credential verification through a service like CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)

Some nations also require health screenings, background checks, or proof of immunizations before approving your visa or license to practice.

How to Find International Travel Nursing Jobs

There are a few paths to landing a nursing job overseas:

• Work with international staffing agencies: These companies match nurses with healthcare providers abroad and help with paperwork, housing, and visa arrangements.
• Apply directly to hospitals: Some facilities in high-demand regions recruit foreign nurses directly and provide sponsorship.
• Government programs: Certain countries have government-sponsored efforts to bring in foreign nurses due to staffing shortages.

Make sure the recruiter or agency you work with is legitimate and has experience placing nurses internationally. Scams do exist, so always research the opportunity before committing.

What About Volunteering or Short-Term Work?

If you’re not ready to commit to a long-term contract, you can still gain experience abroad through:

• Medical mission trips with organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), International Medical Corps, or smaller NGOs
• Travel nursing with a global health focus, often helping in underserved areas or post-disaster zones
• Short-term teaching or training roles in nursing schools or clinics overseas

While these roles may not always pay, they provide invaluable experience and allow you to use your skills where they’re most needed.

Challenges of International Travel Nursing

Before you go abroad as a travel nurse, consider these potential challenges:

• Licensing delays: The credentialing process can take months, especially if documents need translation.
• Cultural adjustment: Language barriers, new workplace norms, and unfamiliar medical systems can be challenging at first.
• Isolation: Being far from friends and family during a long contract can be emotionally tough.
• Legal and tax issues: Some countries may tax your income, and you’ll still need to report earnings to the IRS if you’re a U.S. citizen.

Despite these hurdles, many nurses find international work deeply rewarding, both personally and professionally.

Yes, You Can Take Your Skills Global

Travel nurses absolutely can go out of the country—with the right preparation. Whether you’re looking for a new adventure, better pay, or a way to give back, international nursing offers life-changing experiences. Do your research, check the licensing steps, and partner with trusted organizations to start your global healthcare journey the right way.