If you are an experienced nurse or have just graduated and dream of working abroad, Europe could be a great option. Many countries are open to medical personnel, especially when it comes to professionals from countries with strong basic education and a desire to work.
This article is a short and practical guide on how to find a nursing job in Europe: what are the requirements, what documents you need, where to look for vacancies, what to pay attention to, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
The healthcare system in many European countries is experiencing a shortage of staff. The population is aging, there are many hospitals, and young professionals are either leaving or simply cannot replace those who are retiring. That is why the demand for nurses is only growing.
The issue is particularly acute in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Italy, and the Netherlands. They are not just looking for specialists — they are creating simplified programs for the employment of foreign medical professionals.
First of all — a diploma. To work in a hospital or clinic, you must have a medical education, preferably with a nursing degree. If you have graduated from a college or university in Ukraine, this is a good foundation.
But a diploma alone is not enough. Your knowledge must be officially recognized, which means you need to go through a nostrification or qualification confirmation procedure. In some countries, this takes several months, in others up to a year. You also need at least one year of work experience (in some countries this is not required).
Knowledge of EU hygiene standards, basic patient rights, and the ability to work in a team will be a bonus. Even if you have worked in a private clinic or medical center, this is already a plus on your resume.
There are no options here — knowledge of the language of the country you are going to is critical. You won’t be able to care for patients if you don’t understand their complaints. In most cases, B1 or B2 level is required (depending on the country).
Some hospitals offer language courses or pay for training after signing a contract. But it is better to arrive with some language skills already. English is usually not enough, except in Scandinavian countries or private clinics with international staff.
Tip: start learning the language before you apply. This will speed up the process and make it easier to adapt.
Nurses are most sought after in:
These countries regularly update their programs for foreign nurses, so it is worth checking the official websites of the ministries of health.
To apply for a job, you usually need:
In some cases, a letter of recommendation from a previous employer or a certificate of completion of courses (e.g., in geriatric care or palliative care) is also required.
Preparing your documents is the first and most important step, so it is best to gather everything in advance, even if you do not yet have a specific country in mind.
There are several ways:
Don’t forget to update your resume and cover letter for each country. This increases your chances of getting noticed.
It is important to prepare well before the interview. Many employers conduct interviews online, so it is worth practicing answers to typical questions such as: “Why did you choose this profession?”, “How do you behave in conflict situations with patients?” or “What experience do you have in this field?” Such preparation will help you feel more confident and answer clearly.
If something is unclear in the job description, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Clarification is better than assumptions, especially when it comes to responsibilities or requirements for candidates.
It will also be useful to sign up for language courses. Even a short intensive course will give you the basic knowledge you need to start communicating with colleagues or your employer.
And finally, be honest in your resume. Don’t exaggerate or invent experience, as employers often check the information provided. Honesty and realism are always the best strategy.
The bottom line is simple: if you are a nurse who wants to move to Europe and work in your profession, it is entirely possible. Yes, you will have to prepare documents, learn the language, and go through interviews. But the result is worth it: stability, development, decent pay, and a new life. And there are a huge number of open vacancies waiting just for you.
