nursing in europe

suzanne4, RN · Sep 30, 2007

I took the liberty of moving your thread to the International Forum, as you will get more responses there.

One major issue that you are going to come up against is that most of the countries in Europe will be difficult to get a visa to work there. Priority for any jobs will go first to their citizens, then to holders of EU passports.

That being said, you will need to pass the language exam for that country, which requires that you are completely fluent in the language, as well as pass their licensing exam given in their language.

The UK is pretty much under a hiring freeze at this time due to all of the lay-offs currently going on there. If you had significant experience in an area that they needed, then it would be possible, but as a new grad, it is going to be extremely difficult at this time.

You are also looking at needing to get thru the immigration procedures for which ever country, so that means about 18 months or so, none will be instant at all, meaning that there is no way to go over to Europe and begin to work as an RN right away. Some of the countries also require work experience of a year or two before they will even permit you to start the procedure.

We do have links at the top of this forum for contact information for different countries, I would start there to find out the specific requirements for the countries that you are interested in.

woody62, RN · Oct 1, 2007

I am a graduating nursing student in December. I am a u.s. citizen but, I will be moving to europe with my boyfriend after graduation or shortly there after. Does anyone have suggestions how I can start or where to start looking for a nursing job in europe, it will most likely be in western europe. I am learning russian, which may be helpful. I have not had much success looking for information myself. If anyone can help it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Because European countries require you have a work visa to work there and you cannot take a job away from a native, it is difficult finding work. Your best bet is checking with the Department of Defense. U.S. military hospitals, in Europe, employ civilians, along with their military ones. As long as you are licensed in a state here, you shouldn't have a problem.

Woody:balloons:

Selke · Oct 1, 2007

Just wondering as well as the OP, is there a single place to find listings of American hospitals in Europe? Do you have recommendations on where to go for this information?

suzanne4, RN · Oct 1, 2007

Google or Yahoo searches, just like you find facilities in the US, but be aware that their sites are in their language. And just like here, most will not deal with you until you have gotten thru their exams. including language and licensure.