Can American nurses work in Europe? Yes! Travel nursing is an exciting job where nurses get the opportunity to visit new places. However, travel nursing is not limited to local or domestic assignments, it offers international opportunities too. Nurses from America can visit other countries and can provide their services. In this blog, we will discuss how to become an international travel nurse and tips to become an international travel nurse in Europe and other countries.
What is international travel nursing?
International travel nurses are specialized registered nurses who travel to other countries to provide their services. In times of crisis, other countries might need the services of nurses and to cope with that America sends nurses during these challenging times.
If you want to learn more about How to become an International Travel Nurse, then read our blog!
Travel Nursing in Europe
Many European countries are facing nursing shortages, and the demand for travel nursing is increasing day by day. Travel nurses work on assignments in various healthcare settings and these assignments may vary from a few weeks to several months. Let us now discuss how to become a travel nurse in Europe.
Increase in demand for travel Nurses:
The demand for travel nurses in European countries such as the UK, Norway, Germany, and the Netherlands is increasing especially for intensive care, emergency, and geriatrics.
Language proficiency:
In European countries, national language proficiency is required for better communication between patients and healthcare providers or nurses.
Credential evaluation:
American nurses working in European countries need to have their qualifications recognized by the country such as educational credentials and work experiences.
Licensing or registration:
The next step is meeting licensing requirements such as.
- In the UK, Nurses must apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Council. (NMC)
- In Germany, a language exam and licensing process which is known as approbation is required to work as a nurse.
- In France, nurses must pass the French language exam, and additional training, or equivalency exam is required.
Work visas:
Another important thing for American travel nurses to consider while working as international travel nurses in European countries is meeting work visa requirements. Nurses who are EU citizens can work freely without any visa. International nurses who are non-EU citizens need a work visa or work permit to work in the EU.
Agency support:
Many travel nurses work with agencies. These European agencies offer support with the application process, accommodations, housing transportation, and more.
Salary and benefits:
The salary and benefits of travel nurses in Europe depend on the country, location, specialty, and experience. Salaries are higher in countries like Norway, Switzerland, and Germany but the cost of living is also very high. The benefits for international travel nurses include housing health insurance, meals, travel, etc.
What are things a travel nurse should consider before accepting a travel nursing assignment in Europe?
One of the benefits of travel nursing in Europe is the opportunity to explore different cultures, cuisines, languages, and much more. Some things that travel nurses might consider before signing the contract are:
- Understanding cultural differences.
- Understanding tax.
- Cost of living in different European countries.
Benefits of travel nursing abroad
Traveling combines career and passion for travel. If you have an adventurous nature and you want to explore new countries and want to make money at the same time, then international travel nursing is the best option for you to work abroad. Some of the benefits of travel nursing abroad are as follows:
- New cultural experiences
- Career growth
- Personal and professional growth
- Competitive salaries and benefits
- Work flexibility
What are popular travel nurse destinations?
The popular travel nurse destinations are as follows:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Germany
- Middle east
What are the key skills required for international travel nurses?
International travel nurses visit different locations, work in different healthcare environments, and meet people from different backgrounds, cultures, languages, etc. which can be challenging. There some skills are required for international travel nurses to cope with these challenges such as:
- Understanding and respecting cultural differences
- Language proficiency is required in many European countries such as France, Germany, etc.
- International travel nurses must know how to quickly adapt to the new healthcare systems, healthcare equipment, and clinical practices.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking to make quick decisions during emergencies.
- International travel nurses must know how to work with other healthcare team members who belong to diverse cultural backgrounds.
- They should also have knowledge of global health issues such as mental health, infectious diseases, and more.
- Ability to work in different work conditions and work environments e.g., working in refugee camps, urban hospitals, etc.
- Understanding laws, regulations, and ethical standards of the country they are working in.
Tips to become an International Travel Nurse
While working as an international travel nurse in different countries such as Europe, here are some tips to consider before going on your international travel assignment.
- Get travel insurance and health coverage.
- Research licensing and requirements.
- Secure reliable housing and logistics
- Plan your finances.
- Learn and research about the local healthcare system.
- Prepare for weather and culture.
Conclusion
Becoming an international travel nurse allows nurses to work in different countries like Europe, France, Germany, etc, and gain experience and opportunities. In Europe, the demand for travel nursing is increasing especially in the field of intensive care and emergency. International travel nurses need to understand necessary language proficiency, licensing requirements, credential evaluation, and securing the right working visa before applying for jobs in Europe. With care, full preparation, a strong mindset, and the right skills, an international travel nurse can grow personally and professionally.
