EuroKompis
Professions in demand / Nurses

Nurses: where you are wanted

Nursing is in shortage almost everywhere in Europe. The UK and Ireland are the easiest starting points because you can work in English.

Demand in the eight countries

UKUnited Kingdom
Shortage list

Eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa, which is cheaper and has no healthcare surcharge. Source

IEIreland
Shortage list

Registered nurses and midwives are on the Critical Skills Occupations List. Source

DEGermany
Shortage list

Nurses count as a shortage occupation for the EU Blue Card. Source

NLNetherlands
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

SESweden
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

ESSpain
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

PTPortugal
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

FRFrance
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

Shortage list On an official government shortage list or a dedicated visa route, which usually makes the visa easier or cheaper.High demand Reported as a shortage occupation in the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report.Possible No shortage reported. Still possible with a job offer that meets the normal visa rules.Limited Few or no work visa options for this profession at the moment.

Language

Outside the UK and Ireland you will need the local language, usually at B2 level or higher, before you can register.

Who recognises your qualification

Verify your South African qualification with SAQA first. Other countries use their national recognition body, listed on each country guide.

See your full picture

Your passport, family and salary decide which routes actually open up.

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Other professions

DoctorsPharmacistsPhysiotherapistsSocial workersTeachersChartered accountantsCivil engineersMechanical and electrical engineersSoftware developers and ITElectriciansPlumbers and weldersChefs

Checked on 16 October 2026 against official shortage lists and the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report. General information, not immigration advice.