Complete Nurse Migration Guide for 2026
With the global nursing shortage worsening in 2026, international nurses are in high demand across multiple countries. However, when it comes to Permanent Residency (PR), salary growth, job security, and family settlement, two countries dominate nurse migration searches:
Australia and the United Kingdom
But which country is actually better for nurses to migrate and settle in 2026?
This guide breaks down everything nurses must know — PR pathways, salary, licensing, lifestyle, and long-term stability — so you can make the right migration decision.
Global Demand for Nurses in 2026 (Why Now Is the Best Time)
Healthcare systems worldwide are facing:
- Ageing populations
- Chronic staff shortages
- Increased patient-to-nurse ratios
- Government-funded migration programs
As a result:
- Australia is prioritising PR-linked nurse migration
- The UK continues recruitment but tightens settlement rules
Understanding this difference is crucial.
Nursing Migration to Australia in 2026
Why Australia Is One of the Best Countries for Nurses to Migrate
Australia remains a top PR destination for nurses, offering:
- Direct PR pathways
- High income
- Excellent work-life balance
- Strong labour protections
Nurses are listed on Australia’s Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them high-priority applicants.
Australia Nurse Salary in 2026
| Nurse Level | Annual Salary (AUD) |
| Entry-Level RN | 65,000 – 75,000 |
| Experienced RN | 85,000 – 105,000 |
| Specialist / Senior Nurse | 110,000 – 130,000+ |
✅ Higher savings
✅ Overtime & penalty rates
✅ Superannuation benefits
Permanent Residency Pathways for Nurses in Australia
Australia offers multiple PR routes, including:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190 – State Nominated PR
- Subclass 491 – Regional PR Pathway
- Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination PR
PR is not tied to one employer, giving nurses long-term security.
Nursing Registration in Australia
Licensing Authority: AHPRA
Accepted English Tests:
- IELTS
- OET
- PTE
- LanguageCert
Our consultancy provides end-to-end Australia nursing migration support, including:
✔ AHPRA registration
✔ ANMAC skills assessment
✔ English test strategy
✔ PR visa filing
✔ Job assistance
Nursing Migration to the UK in 2026
Why Nurses Still Choose the UK
The UK remains popular due to:
- Faster recruitment timelines
- NHS sponsorship
- Lower initial migration cost
However, long-term settlement is becoming more challenging.
UK Nurse Salary in 2026
| NHS Band | Annual Salary (£) |
| Band 5 | 28,000 – 34,000 |
| Band 6 | 35,000 – 42,000 |
After tax, rent, and council tax, monthly savings are limited.
PR (ILR) Reality for Nurses in the UK
- ILR eligibility after 5 years
- Continuous NHS employment mandatory
- Visa rule changes increasing uncertainty
- Higher dependent and healthcare costs
PR outcomes are less predictable than Australia.
UK Nursing Registration
Licensing Authority: NMC (UK)
Requirements:
- CBT (Computer-Based Test)
- OSCE (Clinical Exam)
- IELTS or OET
Our UK services include:
✔ NMC registration
✔ OSCE training
✔ NHS placement
✔ Visa & relocation assistance
Australia vs UK for Nurses in 2026 (Quick Comparison)
| Factor | Australia | UK |
| Salary | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| PR Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Work-Life Balance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Family Settlement | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Savings Potential | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Citizenship Timeline | 4 Years | 6+ Years |
Final Verdict: Best Country for Nurses to Migrate in 2026
Australia Is Better If:
- Your goal is Permanent Residency
- You want higher income & stability
- You want freedom from employer dependency
- You plan to settle with family
UK Is Better If:
- You want quick overseas exposure
- You need lower upfront cost
- PR is not your immediate priority
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Australia better than the UK for nurses in 2026?
Yes. Australia offers higher salaries, easier PR pathways, and better long-term settlement options compared to the UK.
Can nurses get PR easily in Australia?
Nurses are on Australia’s priority skills list, making PR pathways faster and more secure.
Which country pays nurses more?
Australia pays significantly more than the UK, with better savings potential.
Is UK PR difficult for nurses?
UK PR (ILR) depends on continuous NHS employment and policy stability, making it less predictable.
Why Choose Axon Careers?
Nursing migration involves:
- Licensing
- English tests
- Skills assessment
- Visa strategy
- PR planning
- Job placement
One mistake can delay migration by years.
Our consultancy offers:
✔ Australia, UK & NZ nursing migration
✔ Complete licensing & PR support
✔ Transparent process
✔ Personalised nurse-specific strategy
Ready to Start Your Nursing Migration in 2026?
Book a personalised nursing migration consultation
Get a PR-focused country recommendation
Migrate with clarity, confidence & expert support
