ImmigrationThe global demand for qualified nurses has never been higher, and Nigerian nurses are among the most sought after due to their strong training, English proficiency, commitment to patient care, and ability to adapt to diverse healthcare systems.
As health systems in the UK, Canada, USA, Ireland, Australia, Germany, the UAE, and other countries continue to struggle with workforce shortages, more pathways have opened for healthcare relocation for Nigerian nurses.
This comprehensive guide explains the full relocation process, top countries hiring Nigerian nurses, visa requirements, licensing exams, salary expectations, job opportunities, and step-by-step migration procedures.
Why Nigerian Nurses Are in High Demand Globally
Healthcare systems around the world face severe nurse shortages due to:
✔ Ageing population
✔ Retirement of older nurses
✔ Expansion of healthcare services
✔ Burnout post-COVID
✔ Increasing chronic illnesses
According to WHO projections, the world will need over 10 million additional nurses by 2030.
Nigerian nurses are particularly valued for:
- Strong clinical training
- English language ability
- Compassionate patient care
- Adaptability
- Willingness to work in multicultural environments
- High resilience and discipline
These advantages make Nigerian nurses a top choice for employers globally.
Benefits of Healthcare Relocation for Nigerian Nurses
Relocating abroad as a nurse offers significant advantages:
✔ Higher salaries
Countries like the UK, USA, and Canada offer much better earnings than Nigeria.
✔ Career progression opportunities
Advanced practice nursing, management roles, and specialisation pathways.
✔ Better working conditions
Modern equipment, safer nurse-to-patient ratio, and structured shifts.
✔ Family relocation pathways
Most countries offer dependent visas for spouses and children.
✔ Access to global certifications
This increases long-term earning potential.
✔ Permanent residency opportunities
Nursing is a highly preferred immigration profession in many countries.
Top Countries Recruiting Nigerian Nurses in 2026
Below are the best countries for healthcare relocation:
1. United Kingdom
The UK remains the most popular destination for Nigerian nurses due to:
- Visa sponsorship availability
- No need for work experience (if licensed)
- Streamlined NMC process
- High recruitment demand in NHS & private hospitals
2. Canada
Canada faces severe healthcare staff shortages and recruits internationally through:
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
- Express Entry
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Employer-sponsored work permits
3. United States
Nigerian nurses can migrate under:
- EB-3 Green Card (Nurse Category)
- H-1B (for specialist nurses)
- TN Visa (dual citizens only)
The USA offers some of the highest nursing salaries globally.
4. Ireland
Ireland employs thousands of foreign nurses through:
- NMBI pathway
- Critical Skills Employment Permit
- Work Permit route
5. Australia
Australian healthcare systems require:
- AHPRA registration
- IELTS/OET
- Skilled visa pathways
- Employer sponsorship
6. Germany
Germany recruits nurses through:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Hospital sponsorship
- Adaptation programmes
- Language proficiency (B1/B2 German)
7. UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)
The UAE offers:
- Tax-free salary
- Fast recruitment
- Gulf Nursing Licenses (DHA/HAAD/MOH)
General Requirements for Nigerian Nurses Seeking Relocation
Though requirements vary by country, most include:
✔ Valid Nursing License (NMCN Nigeria)
✔ Diploma or degree in Nursing
✔ Transcript of training
✔ Passport
✔ English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/OET)
✔ Police clearance certificate
✔ Medical fitness
✔ Proof of funds (varies by country)
✔ Credential evaluation (e.g., NNAS, CGFNS)
✔ Job offer or employer sponsorship
✔ Adaptation or bridging programme (if required)
Licensing Exams and Credential Evaluations
Depending on the destination country:
UK
- CBT (Computer-Based Test)
- OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam)
USA
- NCLEX-RN
- CGFNS evaluation
Canada
- NCLEX-RN
- OSCE (province-specific)
- NNAS evaluation
Australia
- AHPRA assessment
- OBA (Outcome-Based Assessment)
Germany
- German language exam (B1 or B2)
- Adaptation training
Step-by-Step Relocation Guide for Nigerian Nurses
Step 1: Research your destination country
Consider:
- Licensing requirements
- Salary
- Visa pathways
- Language skills needed
Step 2: Begin credential verification
Submit documents to agencies such as:
- NMC (UK)
- NNAS (Canada)
- CGFNS (USA)
- AHPRA (Australia)
Step 3: Pass necessary nursing exams
Prepare for:
- IELTS or OET
- CBT / NCLEX / OBA
Step 4: Apply for jobs or secure employer sponsorship
Use:
- NHS Jobs
- Indeed
- Hospital websites
- Recruitment agencies
Step 5: Receive offer letter & employment contract
Ensure:
- Salary meets national standards
- Working hours are fair
- Accommodation or relocation support (optional)
Step 6: Apply for work visa
Depending on the country:
- UK Health & Care Worker Visa
- Canada Skilled Worker Visa
- USA EB-3 Green Card
- Ireland Critical Skills Permit
- Germany Skilled Worker Visa
Step 7: Prepare relocation logistics
Includes:
- Booking flight
- Securing accommodation
- Arranging travel insurance
- Preparing essential documents
Step 8: Arrive abroad and begin adaptation/orientation
Hospitals provide orientation to help nurses adjust to:
- Equipment
- Documentation style
- Patient management policies
Visa Pathways for Nigerian Nurses (Country-Specific)
UK – Health and Care Worker Visa
Requirements:
- NMC full registration
- IELTS or OET
- Job offer from NHS or private organisation
Processing time: 3–8 weeks
Canada – Skilled Migration or Employer Sponsorship
Pathways:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Employer-Sponsored Work Permit
Processing time: 6–18 months
USA – EB-3 Green Card for Nurses
Advantages:
- Permanent residency
- High salary
- Family relocation
Processing time: 12–30 months
Ireland – Critical Skills Employment Permit
Requirements:
- NMBI registration
- IELTS/OET
- Job offer
Processing time: 6–12 weeks
Australia – Skilled Worker Visa (Subclass 482/186/189)
Requirements include:
- AHPRA registration
- English tests
- Nursing degree
Processing time: 4–12 months
Salary Expectations for Nigerian Nurses Abroad
| Country | Estimated Salary (Annual) |
| UK | £25,000 – £40,000 |
| USA | $60,000 – $110,000 |
| Canada | CAD $55,000 – $95,000 |
| Ireland | €32,000 – €55,000 |
| Australia | AUD $60,000 – $95,000 |
| Germany | €28,000 – €45,000 |
| UAE | AED 60,000 – AED 140,000 |
Salaries vary by experience, city, and specialisation.
Common Challenges in Healthcare Relocation
❌ High cost of exams
❌ Delays in credential verification
❌ Difficulty finding employers
❌ Immigration paperwork
❌ Cultural adjustment
❌ Licensing timelines
Most challenges can be managed with planning and proper guidance.
Tips to Succeed as a Nigerian Nurse Abroad
✔ Improve your English proficiency
✔ Gain relevant clinical experience
✔ Maintain professional documentation
✔ Network with recruiters and healthcare professionals
✔ Update your CV to international standards
✔ Learn about the destination country’s culture
✔ Prepare financially for relocation
✔ Continue professional development
Immigration
