A List of International Licenses Nurses Need to Work Abroad

For many nurses, the dream of working abroad is more than just a career move — it’s a chance to grow, explore new cultures, earn higher salaries, and make a bigger impact on global health. But before you pack your scrubs and hop on a plane, there’s one essential step: getting licensed in your destination country.

Each country has its own requirements, exams, and licensing systems. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common international licenses and exams nurses need to know about before practicing abroad.

United States — NCLEX-RN

• What it is: The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

• Who needs it: All nurses (local or international) who want to work as an RN in the US.

• Process: Nurses apply to a specific state board of nursing, submit credentials (sometimes evaluated by CGFNS or CES), pass the NCLEX-RN, and receive a state-specific license.

Canada — NCLEX-RN + Provincial Licensing

• What it is: Canada also uses the NCLEX-RN as the entry-to-practice exam (except in Quebec).

• Who needs it: All new graduates and internationally educated nurses.

• Process: Apply to a provincial regulatory body (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario), have credentials assessed (via NNAS), pass the NCLEX-RN, and get a provincial license.

Australia — AHPRA Registration (NCLEX-RN + OSCE for IQNMs)

• What it is: Internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs) must pass the NCLEX-RN and a practical OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination).

• Who needs it: Nurses trained outside Australia.

• Process: Apply to AHPRA, pass required exams, and obtain national registration. Once licensed, you can work anywhere in Australia (no state-based licensing).

United Kingdom — NMC Registration (CBT + OSCE)

• What it is: Nurses must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

• Who needs it: All non-UK trained nurses.

• Process: Pass the CBT (Computer-Based Test) and OSCE practical exam, prove English proficiency (IELTS or OET), and complete health and character checks.

New Zealand — NCNZ Registration

• What it is: Registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).

• Who needs it: All internationally qualified nurses.

• Process: Credential assessment, English proficiency, competence assessment program (CAP) if required, then registration.

Ireland — NMBI Registration

• What it is: Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).

• Who needs it: Non-EU/EEA nurses.

• Process: Qualification assessment, adaptation program or aptitude test (if needed), then full registration.

Singapore — SNB Registration

• What it is: Registration with the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB).

• Who needs it: Foreign-trained nurses.

• Process: Employer sponsorship is required first, then SNB assessment (may include a competency assessment or adaptation program), and registration.

United Arab Emirates — HAAD, DHA, or MOH Licensing

• What it is: There are different licensing bodies depending on the emirate:

  • HAAD: Abu Dhabi

  • DHA: Dubai

  • MOHAP: Other emirates

• Who needs it: All foreign-trained nurses.

• Process: Credential assessment, DataFlow verification, qualifying exam, and license issuance.

Qatar — QCHP Licensing

• What it is: Registration with the Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners (QCHP).

• Who needs it: All foreign-trained nurses.

• Process: Credential verification (DataFlow), Prometric exam, and license issuance.

Saudi Arabia — SCFHS Licensing

• What it is: Registration with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS).

• Who needs it: All foreign-trained nurses.

• Process: Credential verification (DataFlow), Prometric exam, and license issuance.

Why your international license matters

Securing the correct license isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about ensuring you’re qualified to provide safe, high-quality care and protecting patients everywhere.

Having an internationally recognized license not only opens doors for global opportunities but also demonstrates your commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.

Your journey starts here

Whether you dream of working in New York, Sydney, London, or Dubai, getting your international nursing license is your first step. The process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Working with an experienced licensing partner like NEAC can make your journey smoother — from paperwork and document preparation to exam guidance and application support.

Ready to make your mark as a global nurse?

Start your licensing journey today — and take that first bold step toward your international nursing dream!

✅ If you'd like, I can also create a global licensing infographic or a "quick guide" checklist to accompany this article for your website or social media. Just let me know!