auswandern-als-handwerker
auswandern-als-handwerker
auswandern-als-handwerker
Emigrating as a Caregiver: Your Path Abroad – Opportunities, Challenges & Top Countries
The shortage of skilled professionals in the care sector offers you as a caregiver attractive opportunities to work abroad. But what steps are necessary to emigrate successfully? Find out about the key aspects in this article—from the recognition of your qualifications to the cost of living. For personal advice, feel free to contact us.
The topic short and concise
The shortage of skilled professionals in the care sector offers you as a caregiver attractive opportunities to work abroad. But what steps are necessary to emigrate successfully? Find out about the key aspects in this article—from the recognition of your qualifications to the cost of living. For personal advice, feel free to contact us.
The shortage of skilled professionals in the care sector offers you as a caregiver attractive opportunities to work abroad. But what steps are necessary to emigrate successfully? Find out about the key aspects in this article—from the recognition of your qualifications to the cost of living. For personal advice, feel free to contact us.
The shortage of skilled professionals in the care sector offers you as a caregiver attractive opportunities to work abroad. But what steps are necessary to emigrate successfully? Find out about the key aspects in this article—from the recognition of your qualifications to the cost of living. For personal advice, feel free to contact us.
Are you a caregiver dreaming of working abroad? Discover which countries are particularly attractive, how to have your qualifications recognised, and what financial benefits await you.
Introduction: Why do nurses move abroad?
The desire to emigrate as a nurse is often driven by various factors. Many nurses seek better working conditions, a higher salary, and opportunities for personal development abroad. Others are attracted by the chance to work in a different healthcare system and experience new cultures. We at GoMovin understand these motivations and are happy to support you with your international move. Our relocation assistance is designed to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Popular destinations for nurses include Scandinavia, Switzerland, Austria, Canada, and Australia. Each of these countries offers unique advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered when making your decision. For example, the Scandinavian countries are known for exemplary working conditions and high standards, while Switzerland attracts with high salaries and a high quality of life. Austria scores with its geographical proximity and similar culture, whereas Canada and Australia are distant countries with a high demand for nurses.
However, before you take the step of moving abroad, it is important to be aware of the challenges and opportunities. These include the recognition of your qualifications, language requirements, visa regulations, and the cost of living in the destination country. With careful planning and preparation, you can overcome these challenges and benefit from the numerous advantages that working abroad as a nurse offers. We at GoMovin help you to overcome these hurdles and fulfil your dream of working abroad. Our services not only include the move itself but also support with administrative paperwork and insurance issues.
Scandinavia: Better working conditions increase satisfaction by 30%
The Beveridge Model and its Benefits for Nurses
The Scandinavian healthcare systems are based on the Beveridge Model, which provides universal access to healthcare through tax funding. This contrasts with the German Bismarck model, which relies on a system of health insurance schemes. A key advantage of the Beveridge model for nurses is the better nurse-to-patient ratio. While in Germany a ratio of 1:13 is often common, in Scandinavia it is around 1:4. This leads to a reduced workload and a higher level of attention for patients. According to medi-karriere.de, this can reduce burnout rates and increase job satisfaction.
However, there are also limitations. State control can restrict the variety of available treatments compared to the German system. Nonetheless, for many nurses, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, especially the better working conditions and the increased appreciation of their work.
Sweden as an Attractive Destination within the EU
Within the EU, Sweden is a particularly attractive destination for German nurses. Due to EU membership, the bureaucratic hurdles are lower than in non-EU countries. Additionally, the salary prospects are promising. For example, an emergency nurse can expect a gross salary of around €3,500, as reported by medi-karriere.de. It is important to note, however, that a C1 level in the Swedish language is essential to work in healthcare.
For nurses interested in Sweden, it is advisable to gather information early about the recognition of their qualifications and, if necessary, take language courses. We at GoMovin are happy to support you in planning your move and help you find your way in Sweden.
Recognition of Training and Academic Requirements
The direct recognition of German training is rather unlikely in Scandinavia. Instead, a nursing qualification or a Bachelor's degree that meets Scandinavian standards is generally preferred. This underscores the high value placed on academic education in Scandinavian healthcare. Bachelor's and Master's programs are widespread in nursing and help to elevate the status of nurses and involve them more in decision-making processes. According to medi-karriere.de, this is also reflected in the greater autonomy and responsibility that nurses enjoy in Scandinavia.
For German nurses, this means that they may need to acquire additional qualifications to work in Scandinavia. It is therefore advisable to inform themselves early about the specific requirements of each country and, if necessary, to undertake appropriate further training.
Switzerland: 114% higher net salaries offset high living costs
Recognition of Training by the Swiss Red Cross (SRC)
For German nursing professionals wishing to work in Switzerland, the recognition of their qualifications is a crucial step. The body responsible for this is the Swiss Red Cross (SRC). To avoid incorrect decisions, the SRC offers a paid pre-check to assess in advance whether German qualifications meet Swiss standards. According to einwandern-schweiz.ch, the formal assessment costs approximately 1,000 CHF.
At GoMovin, we collaborate with MedicPersonal, who, upon successful placement, cover 50% of the recognition fees. This can provide significant financial relief and ease the transition into the Swiss job market.
Residence Permit and Working Conditions
With a signed employment contract, German nursing professionals typically receive a B residence permit, which is valid for five years and can be renewed. For fixed-term contracts, an L permit is issued, lasting the duration of the contract. Those entering Switzerland without a job have 90 days to find a position. This period can be extended by another 90 days with a short-term residence permit, as reported by medicpersonal.ch.
It is important to note that working conditions in Switzerland can differ from those in Germany. For instance, hierarchies in institutions are often flatter, and the responsibilities of nursing professionals are greater.
Salary Prospects and Cost of Living
The salary prospects in Switzerland are very attractive for nursing professionals. The average gross salary is about 87,600 CHF annually, equivalent to a monthly salary of 7,300 CHF. However, after deductions for social security, health insurance (approximately 200 CHF per month), and taxes, a net salary of around 4,750 CHF monthly remains. According to recrutio.de, net salaries in Switzerland are approximately 114% higher than in Germany, partially offsetting the higher living costs.
At GoMovin, we support you in collaboration with MedicPersonal in your housing search and provide assistance with insurance and pension solutions. This allows you to fully concentrate on your new job.
Austria: Recognition procedure accelerated by accompanying work
Requirements for Foreign Nursing Professionals
If you wish to work as a foreign nursing professional in Austria, you must meet certain requirements, which vary depending on your country of origin (EU/EEA vs. third countries) and your desired position (Registered Nurse, Qualified Nursing Assistant, Nursing Assistant). According to workinaustria.com, an important first step is to determine whether recognition or nostrification of your qualification is required.
It is important to note that the Red-White-Red Card is generally not available for 24-hour caregivers. Therefore, you should inform yourself early about the specific requirements of your desired position.
Recognition and Nostrification Procedures
To undergo the recognition and nostrification procedure, you first need to identify the responsible authority. This could be universities of applied sciences, the state government office, or the Ministry of Health. You can find the responsible body on the website workinaustria.com. During the process, § 34 GuKG may permit accompanying work under supervision. This can speed up the process and allow you to gain professional experience while your qualification is being recognized.
We at GoMovin are happy to assist you in compiling the required documents and communicating with the authorities.
Red-White-Red Card and Language Skills
The Red-White-Red Card enables professionals in shortage occupations to work in Austria. Even if full nostrification is still pending, accompanying work under § 34 GuKG can increase the chances of obtaining a Red-White-Red Card as a professional in a shortage occupation. However, you must still demonstrate sufficient points based on criteria such as language skills. For full professional authorization, complete recognition/nostrification and registration in the health professions register are required. This requires German language skills at level B1/B2. The ABA offers free advice for professionals and companies regarding residence permits.
We at GoMovin help you acquire the necessary language skills and meet the requirements for the Red-White-Red Card.
Spain: Mastering Bureaucracy for a Fresh Start Under the Sun
Recognition of Training and Working Conditions
If you wish to work as a German nurse in Spain, you should be aware that your training does not directly correspond to the Spanish academic standard. This may mean that you initially work as a nursing assistant. According to rechtsdepesche.de, it is important to acquaint yourself with the specific requirements of the Spanish job market in advance.
However, it is possible to have your qualification recognised in Spain and work as a fully qualified nurse. This requires a recognition process, which, according to rechtsdepesche.de, is relatively straightforward.
EU Directive 2005 and the Recognition Process
The EU Directive 2005 governs the recognition of professional qualifications within the EU. Accordingly, regulated professions, including nursing, should be recognised as equivalent in all member states, facilitating access to the host country's job market. To have your qualification recognised in Spain, you must undergo an official recognition process. This involves submitting your exam certificate and a certified translation to the Spanish Ministry of Health. A decision is expected within three months, according to rechtsdepesche.de.
The minimum requirements for recognition include three years or 4,600 hours of combined theoretical and practical training, with theoretical training comprising at least one-third and clinical training at least half of the total duration. The German nursing training generally meets these minimum requirements.
We at GoMovin are happy to assist you with translating your documents and communicating with Spanish authorities.
Canada & Australia: Strategic Pathway to Immigration as a Healthcare Worker
Canada: Streamlined Immigration Pathways for Healthcare Workers
Canada is offering simplified immigration pathways for healthcare workers due to the shortage of skilled workers in the healthcare sector. There are specific programs, especially for Registered Nurses, Psychiatric Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Practical Nurses, Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates. According to jacoblaw.com, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) like Nova Scotia's Labour Market Priorities and Occupations in Demand Programs, British Columbia's Healthcare Professional Category, and Saskatchewan's International Health Worker EOI Pool specifically target these professions.
To work as a nurse in Canada, regulation of nursing professions by provincial authorities is essential. This means you must register with the relevant authority before applying through the PNPs. Being nominated by these programs significantly increases the chances of obtaining permanent residency.
Australia: High Salaries Attract Healthcare Workers Down Under
Australia also has a high demand for skilled healthcare workers and offers good earning potential. There are visa options for temporary and permanent stays, with some professions having direct paths to permanent residency. According to visapath.de, a Skills Assessment and registration with Australian authorities are required.
To work as a nurse in Australia, you must demonstrate your English language proficiency (IELTS Academic, OET). The salary for Registered Nurses is about 77,000 AUD annually.
Key Benefits of Emigrating as a Healthcare Worker
Here are some of the key benefits you'll gain:
Better Career Opportunities: Emigrating as a healthcare worker can lead to enhanced career prospects and professional growth.
Higher Salaries: Many countries offer more competitive salaries for healthcare professionals.
Improved Quality of Life: Better work-life balance and access to advanced healthcare systems.
Successful Emigration: Language Skills and Recognition as Key Factors
Language skills are essential
Regardless of the destination country, sufficient language skills are a fundamental requirement for working abroad as a nurse. It's not only important to be able to communicate in everyday situations but also to master the medical terminology to avoid misunderstandings and ensure high-quality patient care. According to gutefrage.net, this is particularly important since nursing training in many countries is now a four-year university course.
We at GoMovin recommend that you take up a language course early and continuously improve your skills.
Recognition of training is the first step
The recognition of your training is in most cases the first step to being able to work abroad as a nurse. Make sure to find out in advance about the specific requirements of the respective country and ensure you have all the necessary documents together. According to einwandern-schweiz.ch, the recognition process can take several months, so it is advisable to start early.
We at GoMovin are happy to assist you in compiling the required documents and communicating with the relevant authorities.
Seek individual advice
When planning your emigration as a nurse, it is advisable to seek individual advice. Organisations like ABA in Austria or Recrutio in Switzerland offer free consultations where you can clarify your questions and find out about the specific requirements of the respective country. These consultations can help you avoid pitfalls and expedite the process.
We at GoMovin collaborate with various partners to provide you with comprehensive advice and support.
Consider financial aspects
When planning your emigration, you should also consider the financial aspects. Find out about the cost of living in the destination country, the taxes and social contributions, and the costs for the recognition of your training. It is important to create a realistic budget and ensure that you have sufficient financial resources to support your livelihood abroad.
We at GoMovin help you plan the financial aspects of your emigration and support you in finding suitable health insurance.
Emigrating as a Care Professional: Achieving Success with Careful Planning
Summary of Key Points
Emigrating as a Nurse offers you the chance for better working conditions, higher pay, and the opportunity to work in a different healthcare system. Popular destinations include Scandinavia, Switzerland, Austria, Canada, and Australia. Each of these countries has its own advantages and disadvantages to consider when making your decision. It's important to inform yourself in advance about the recognition of your qualifications, the language requirements, the visa regulations, and the cost of living in your target country. With careful planning and preparation, you can overcome these challenges and benefit from the numerous advantages that working abroad as a nurse offers.
We at GoMovin are happy to support you every step of the way with your relocation and help you realise your dream of working abroad.
Outlook for the Future
The demand for qualified nursing staff will continue to rise in many countries. This provides you with numerous opportunities to work abroad and advance your career. Seize this chance and take the step abroad!
Encouragement for Careful Planning and Preparation
We at GoMovin encourage you to carefully plan and prepare for your emigration as a nurse. Inform yourself comprehensively about the various destination countries, seek individual advice, and ensure that you have all the necessary documents together. With good preparation, nothing stands in the way of your successful new start abroad.
Government funding for moves abroad offers an excellent opportunity to financially support your new start. Whether it’s the recognition of your qualifications or the first steps in a new country, the available programs and tax benefits make the move attractive and financially viable.
With a variety of support programs and tax incentives, there are numerous ways to reduce the costs of your move. We at GoMovin offer you comprehensive advice and support in selecting the right support programs, meeting technical requirements, navigating the application process, and avoiding potential problems.
Choosing to move with GoMovin is an investment in your professional future. Not only do you reduce your initial costs and ensure a smooth transition, but you also make an important contribution to your personal development.
Now is the perfect time to explore the funding opportunities for your project. Contact us today to start your individual consultation and to submit the application for funding quickly and easily. Register for free and receive an immediate initial estimate for your relocation needs.
Further useful links
The Institute for Employment Research (IAB) offers studies and reports on the labour market in the care sector.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides figures and facts about the care industry in Germany.
The Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) provides information on current health and care policy.
The German Red Cross (DRK) offers information on care work and training opportunities.
The Federal Association of Non-statutory Welfare Services (BAGFW) informs about the social and healthcare system in Germany.
The German Society for Palliative Medicine (DGP) provides information on palliative care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) offers reports and studies on global healthcare.
The European Social Observatory (OSE) analyses European social policy, including healthcare.
FAQ
Which countries are particularly attractive for healthcare professionals looking to emigrate?
Popular destinations include Scandinavia (better working conditions), Switzerland (high salaries), Austria (geographical proximity), Canada, and Australia (high demand). The choice depends on your priorities.
What language skills do I need to work abroad as a healthcare professional?
Sufficient language skills are essential. For Switzerland, you generally need a B2 level in German, French, or Italian, depending on the region. In Scandinavia, often a C1 level is required.
How is my German nursing qualification recognised abroad?
Recognition varies by country. In Switzerland, the Swiss Red Cross (SRK) is responsible. In Spain, recognition is through the Spanish Ministry of Health. Find out early about the specific requirements.
What financial aspects should I consider when emigrating as a healthcare professional?
Consider the cost of living in the destination country, taxes and social contributions, the costs of recognising your qualifications, and possible relocation costs. Create a realistic budget.
What support does GoMovin offer for healthcare professionals emigrating?
GoMovin offers relocation assistance, help with administrative procedures, insurance issues, and works with partners like MedicPersonal to assist with qualification recognition.
What advantages does working in Scandinavia offer healthcare professionals?
Scandinavian countries often offer better working conditions, a better staff ratio (e.g., 1:4 instead of 1:13 in Germany), and a higher appreciation for healthcare professionals.
What visa regulations apply to healthcare professionals looking to emigrate to Canada or Australia?
Canada offers simplified immigration routes for healthcare professionals. Australia requires a Skills Assessment and registration with Australian authorities. Learn about the specific visa options.
How can I increase my chances of finding a job abroad as a healthcare professional?
Improve your language skills, get your qualifications recognised, gain professional experience, and take advantage of personalised advisory services from organisations like ABA in Austria or Recrutio in Switzerland.
