01
United Kingdom
The NHS is one of the world's largest healthcare employers. UK nurses earn £28K–£45K with a clear career progression framework and active international recruitment programs.
▲ Steady·Score +13
Nursing Careers
Best Countries to Work as a Nurse and Earn High Wages
Top global destinations for nurses seeking high salaries, quality work environments, and internationally recognized credentials.
Pick your favorites · Every vote moves the ranking · Results update live
02
Germany
Germany faces a significant nursing shortage, creating strong demand and immigration programs for international nurses. The German healthcare system offers competitive salaries and a path to permanent residency.
▲ Steady·Score +12
03
Canada
Canada's universal healthcare system employs hundreds of thousands of nurses with average RN salaries of CAD $70K–$95K. Provincial nurse licensing programs welcome internationally trained nurses.
▲ Steady·Score +12
04
Australia
Australia offers $70K–$90K AUD for registered nurses with strong unions protecting working conditions. The skilled migrant nursing pathway makes Australia a top immigration destination for nurses globally.
▲ Steady·Score +12
05
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia actively recruits internationally trained nurses with high tax-free salaries, free housing, transport, and annual flights home. Hospitals in Riyadh and Jeddah meet Joint Commission International standards.
▲ Steady·Score +11
06
United States
The highest-paying country in the world for registered nurses, with average RN salaries of $80K–$120K and travel nursing rates exceeding $100K. The US is the top destination for internationally educated nurses.
▲ Steady·Score +11
07
United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
Tax-free nursing salaries in Dubai range from $40K–$80K USD equivalent, with accommodation and flight allowances often included. World-class hospital facilities attract top nursing talent from around the globe.
▲ Steady·Score +7
08
Netherlands
The Netherlands offers excellent nursing wages and one of the most progressive healthcare systems in Europe. Dutch nurses enjoy strong worker protections and access to continuous education funding.
▲ Steady·Score +6
09
New Zealand
New Zealand offers strong work-life balance, beautiful natural environment, and nurse salaries of NZD $65K–$90K. The Nursing Council of New Zealand maintains an accessible international registration pathway.
▲ Steady·Score +5
10
Ireland
Ireland's healthcare system actively recruits nurses from across the world. Salaries of €35K–€55K with strong union representation and one of Europe's most accessible pathways for internationally qualified nurses.
▲ Steady·Score +4
11
Norway
Norway's oil-funded healthcare system pays nurses among the best wages in Scandinavia. Nurses earn NOK 500K–700K annually with generous benefits, parental leave, and exceptional patient ratios.
▲ Steady·Score +1
12
Switzerland
Swiss nurses earn among the highest wages in Europe, with average salaries exceeding $90K adjusted for Swiss cost of living. The country's universal healthcare system maintains excellent staffing standards.
▲ Steady·Score +1
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