Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions globally, and Nigerian nurses are highly sought after in healthcare systems across the world. Countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia face significant nursing shortages, creating excellent opportunities for qualified Nigerian nurses to relocate and build international careers. This comprehensive guide outlines the pathways, requirements, and steps for Nigerian nurses to work in these four major destinations.
The journey from Nigerian nursing registration to practicing abroad involves credential evaluation, licensing exams, language tests, and visa processes. While the path requires investment and dedication, the rewards—higher salaries, better working conditions, and international experience—make it worthwhile for thousands of Nigerian nurses each year.
United Kingdom: The Most Popular Destination
The UK remains the top destination for Nigerian nurses, with the NHS actively recruiting internationally trained nurses to address chronic staffing shortages. The process is well-established, and many Nigerian nurses have successfully made the transition.
Requirements for UK Nursing Registration (NMC)
- Valid Nigerian nursing qualification (RN)
- Current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
- IELTS Academic with minimum 7.0 overall (at least 6.5 in each section) OR OET Grade B
- Computer-Based Test (CBT) pass
- Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) pass
Step-by-Step Process
- Create NMC Online Account: Register at nmc.org.uk and create your online account
- Submit Application: Complete the online application with your nursing qualifications and experience
- Take IELTS/OET: Achieve the required English language score
- Pass CBT: Take the Computer-Based Test at approved centers (available in Nigeria)
- Get Decision Letter: NMC issues decision on your application
- Find Employer: Secure job offer from an NHS Trust or private healthcare provider
- Obtain Visa: Apply for Health and Care Worker Visa (reduced fees for healthcare workers)
- Pass OSCE: Complete the practical examination in the UK within specified timeframe
- Receive PIN: Get your NMC registration PIN and begin practicing
UK Nursing Salary Expectations
- Band 5 (Newly registered): £29,970 - £36,483
- Band 6 (Senior nurse): £37,338 - £44,962
- Band 7 (Team leader): £46,148 - £52,809
- Additional London weighting if working in the capital
Advantages of UK for Nigerian Nurses
- NHS often covers OSCE costs and provides accommodation support
- Health and Care Worker Visa has reduced fees
- No Immigration Health Surcharge for healthcare workers
- Pathway to settlement after 5 years
- Family can join as dependents
United States: Highest Salaries
The USA offers the highest nursing salaries globally but has a more complex and lengthy registration process. The NCLEX-RN exam is required, and visa pathways can be challenging.
Requirements for US Nursing (NCLEX-RN)
- Nigerian nursing degree (BSc Nursing preferred)
- Credential Evaluation through CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)
- NCLEX-RN examination pass
- State nursing license (requirements vary by state)
- VisaScreen certificate for immigration
Process Overview
- CGFNS Evaluation: Submit credentials for evaluation (3-6 months)
- Apply to State Board: Apply to the state where you want to practice
- Receive ATT: Get Authorization to Test for NCLEX
- Take NCLEX-RN: Can be taken at Pearson VUE centers (nearest in Ghana or UK)
- Obtain VisaScreen: CGFNS VisaScreen certificate required for visa
- Find Employer: Secure job offer with visa sponsorship
- Visa Application: Typically EB-3 immigrant visa (green card) - long waiting time
US Nursing Salary Expectations
- National average: $89,000 - $100,000/year
- California, New York, Massachusetts: $100,000 - $150,000/year
- Specialty nurses can earn even higher
Challenges
- Long visa waiting times (3-5+ years for EB-3)
- No NCLEX testing centers in Nigeria
- Higher costs for credential evaluation
- State-specific licensing requirements
Canada: Growing Opportunities
Canada is actively welcoming internationally educated nurses (IENs) through various pathways. Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta have streamlined processes for foreign nurses.
Requirements for Canadian Nursing Registration
- Nigerian nursing qualification
- NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service) assessment
- Provincial regulatory body application
- English proficiency (IELTS or CELBAN)
- Bridging program or additional exams (varies by province)
Process Overview
- NNAS Application: Submit documents for assessment
- Receive Advisory Report: Shows competency gaps if any
- Apply to Provincial Regulator: Submit NNAS report to your target province
- Complete Requirements: May include bridging courses, NCLEX-RN (some provinces), or other exams
- Obtain Provincial License: Once all requirements met
- Immigration: Apply through Express Entry, PNP, or with job offer
Canadian Nursing Salary Expectations
- Registered Nurse: CAD $65,000 - $95,000/year
- Varies significantly by province
- British Columbia and Alberta tend to pay higher
Advantages
- Clear pathway to permanent residency
- Nurses on shortage occupation lists for immigration
- Some provinces have expedited processes
- Universal healthcare system with good working conditions
Australia: Quality of Life Focus
Australia offers excellent quality of life and competitive nursing salaries. The process is through AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).
Requirements for Australian Nursing Registration
- Nigerian nursing qualification
- English proficiency (IELTS Academic 7.0 overall, 7.0 in each band OR OET B)
- AHPRA assessment of qualifications
- May require Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) or bridging program
Process Overview
- English Test: Achieve required IELTS/OET scores
- Apply to AHPRA: Submit qualifications and experience
- Assessment Outcome: May require additional training or direct registration
- Complete Requirements: If needed, complete bridging program in Australia
- Obtain Registration: AHPRA registration to practice
- Visa Application: Skilled migration visa (subclass 189/190/491) or employer-sponsored
Australian Nursing Salary Expectations
- Registered Nurse: AUD $70,000 - $90,000/year
- Senior/Specialist nurses: AUD $90,000 - $120,000+
- Additional penalties for shift work, weekends, holidays
Comparing Your Options
| Factor | UK | USA | Canada | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Process Time | 6-12 months | 3-5+ years | 12-24 months | 12-18 months |
| Salary Range | £30k-£45k | $89k-$150k | CAD 65k-95k | AUD 70k-90k |
| Visa Difficulty | Moderate | Difficult | Moderate | Moderate |
Tips for Success
- Start IELTS preparation early: Language tests are required everywhere
- Gather documents: Transcripts, certificates, verification letters
- Build experience: 1-2 years of post-qualification experience helps
- Research thoroughly: Requirements change; verify on official websites
- Join communities: Facebook groups and forums for Nigerian nurses abroad
- Be patient: The process takes time but is achievable
Conclusion
Nigerian nurses have excellent opportunities abroad, with each destination offering unique advantages. The UK provides the fastest pathway with NHS support, the USA offers the highest salaries despite longer timelines, Canada combines good salaries with permanent residency prospects, and Australia offers excellent quality of life.
Choose your destination based on your priorities—speed, salary, long-term settlement, or lifestyle. Whichever path you choose, Nigerian nurses continue to make significant contributions to healthcare systems worldwide. Your skills are valued globally, and with proper preparation, your international nursing career awaits.