International Nursing!

[alexis_]

Hello all!

I am hoping someone has some answers to a few of the questions I have regarding international nursing!

I am currently in an accelerated nursing program, and will be graduating in December of 2017. I also have a BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies. My hope is that upon graduation, I can find work as a nurse in a Spanish-speaking country. I have read quite a few forums and many people mention how difficult it is to work abroad.

I was wondering if anyone who has experienced nursing abroad would share their experiences. How was the process? Where did you go? What was your first step? Do you have any suggestions for me?

Thanks!!

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Best method- secure nursing education in the country where you wish to live and work. Many countries will not accept accelerated BSN degrees due to reduced clinical hours.

You need to start with deciding on a country. EU prioritizes EU citizens over all others

[alexis_]

Thanks for the reply! I was thinking somewhere either in South America or Spain. I lived in Argentina a few years ago, but am back in the US to go to school. Would I have to contact a specific hospital in ARG? Or do I need to contact the government some how?

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Spain is part of the EU and our nursing education is not necessarily equivalent. EU does not like the US ABSN.

You need to find out the qualifications of nurses in Argentina. Likely need to have paid nursing experience. Demonstrate comprehension/written/reading/and speaking competence in the local language. You would need to review the work visa requirements. Start with the organization that regulated nursing and review work visa requirements of the government.

Google is your friend. Just be aware many countries do not accept the reduced clinical hours of an ABSN program. The ABSN is unique to the US.