How to Get Into International Travel Nursing

International travel nursing is a type of travel nursing that combines nurses’ passion for their vocation and worldwide travel. Nurses who want to explore far-flung places while pushing themselves professionally may especially be interested in this job.

Interested in becoming an international travel nurse? Read on to discover how to enter this thrilling nursing field, including international travel nursing salary, expectations, and more.

What is International Travel Nursing?

An international travel nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who travels to other countries for work. Generally, they work in hospitals, outpatient care clinics, or private practice offices.

Like domestic travel nurses, they can accept long—or short-term assignments. However, most nurses and employers in this sector prefer long-term assignments because of the relocation and visa requirements.

How to Become an International Travel Nurse

Explore this step-by-step guide to learn exactly what it takes to get into international travel nursing.

Step 1: Earn a BSN

Becoming an international travel nurse requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program. You can earn one through a 4-year program, an RN-BSN bridge, or an accelerated second-degree nursing program.

The primary accreditation bodies for nursing programs in the United States are:

• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX

To work as an RN, you must pass the NCLEX examination and apply for state licensure.

Step 3: Gain Experience

Most international travel nursing jobs will require bedside experience in your chosen specialty. The amount of experience needed may vary depending on the job and employer. This step aims to build strong clinical skills to ensure your success as an international travel nurse.

Step 4:  Earn Certifications

While you don't need specialty certifications to become an international travel nurse, they look good on your resume. Proving your nursing skills with certifications can increase your likelihood of finding employment.

Some certs that can help give you a competitive edge include Certified Wound and Ostomy Care (CWOCN) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN).

Step 5: Consider Your Desired Workplaces

In addition to making a wish list of countries you want to work in, you should research which countries you can work in. Some countries do not allow international travel nurses. Your prospective workplaces will be at the cross-section of available jobs and your interests.

Step 6: Research Licensure and Visa Requirements

Once you know which countries have jobs that you want to apply to, you can begin researching licensure and visa requirements. Be prepared for this lengthy process, as it can take months to complete. 

Most countries will require a legitimate job offer before applying for its version of a nursing license. Some require proof of graduation with a BSN, while others may require you to take an exam or a few courses. They may also have language requirements that you should consider before applying.

Step 7: Contact Agencies or Employers

Like domestic travel nursing, you will need the support of an international travel nursing agency or employer. Getting hired by directly applying to foreign nursing jobs is virtually impossible. Agencies and employers will help match you with employers in countries where you want to work.

Once submitted by your agency or employer to a job, you can interview and accept offers that suit you. Then, you're ready to start your thrilling travel nursing adventure!

Where Can International Travel Nurses Work?

International travel nurses can work in a variety of locations, including:

• Hospitals
• Long-term care facilities
• Outpatient clinics
• Private practice offices
• Telehealth
• International cruise ships
• Crisis or refuge centers
• Home health care

International travel nurses are in high demand, especially in developing countries, to fill voids where needed. In this role, you can work in countries like Switzerland, Denmark, Australia, and Dubai.

The standards to get these jobs, including education and language, vary by country. However, you will need a work visa to be legally employed in each country. Most nations have strict requirements for their visas, which may include:

• Credentialing from the country's board of nursing
• A verifiable employment offer
• Sponsorship from the hospital or place of employment

International Travel Nurse Salary

Note that international travel nurses may not make as much as those in the US. Becoming one is more about experiencing new things and seeing new places than optimizing one's income.

Currently, Switzerland is the highest-paying country for travel nurses, with nurses earning $107,487 annually. However, your income will likely be lower because international employers often cover housing, visa fees, and travel expenses.

What Countries Have the Highest Demand for International Travel Nurses?

Low-income countries currently have the highest need, including places in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. International travel nurses are also very much needed in areas with ongoing natural disasters and humanitarian crises. These might be shorter-term contracts but will often pay more because of the quick turnaround for licensure.

International Travel Nursing vs. Domestic Travel Nursing

International and domestic travel nursing share several similarities despite their numerous differences. The most significant similarity is their job duties. No matter your travel nursing path, you’ll work as an RN with the same responsibilities.

Similarities

• Job Responsibilities
• Adventure
• Leaving behind friends and family
• New experiences

Differences

• Length of contract (international contracts are longer)
• Ability to extend
• Visa requirements
• Licensure regulations
• Salary
• Language barriers
• Housing difficulties

Is International Travel Nursing Right for Me?

Becoming an international travel nurse is exciting, but it might not be for everyone. The process of becoming an international travel nurse takes time and commitment. To enter this field, you need a desire to travel internationally and the patience to see it through. 

In addition to a BSN and RN licensure, you’ll need relevant bedside experience stateside before you’re eligible for international travel nursing. Then, you must work with a recruiter or agency to find a job. Finally, you’ll go through the visa and licensing process, which can be lengthy.

If the allure of international travel and working with diverse patient populations is worth the process, this job is certainly for you.

FAQs

• What countries accept a US nursing license?

  • Australia, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, New Zealand, and Canada all accept U.S. nursing licenses and NCLEX scores; however, some require placement exams and separate applications.

• Where can nurses make the most money internationally?

  • Currently, nurses in Switzerland earn the highest average annual salary of $107,487 (USD).

• What’s the best way to get started as an international travel nurse?

  • Reach out to travel nursing agencies that specialize in international travel. It’s also helpful to find international travel nurses on social media and message them to help provide real-world context.