Which Country is Best for Nurses after OET?

As a seasoned expert in international nursing migration with over two decades of advising healthcare professionals on global career transitions, I have witnessed firsthand how passing the Occupational English Test (OET) can transform a nurse's prospects.

The OET, tailored for medical contexts, equips nurses with the language skills needed to thrive in English-speaking healthcare systems. Resources like oetpro provide invaluable insights into preparation and country-specific requirements, emphasizing the test's role in unlocking doors worldwide.

However, with the global nursing shortage projected to reach 5.8 million by 2030—down slightly from 6.2 million in 2020 but still exacerbated by aging populations and post-pandemic burnout—the choice of destination in 2025 demands careful consideration of demand, salaries, ease of immigration, and quality of life.

In this article, I'll draw on the latest data as of August 2025 to evaluate top countries, incorporating real-world examples from nurses I've consulted.

The landscape has undergone significant evolution since early 2024. OET acceptance has expanded, now recognized in over 20 countries for nursing registration and immigration, including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, and the United States.

This broadening is driven by regulatory bodies streamlining processes to address shortages; for instance, Canada's Canadian Nurse Regulators Collaborative (CNRC) now recommends OET for proficiency, a shift from its previous limited use.

Similarly, the US has fully integrated OET for visa screenings, making it viable for immigrant nurses. Factors such as job stability, work-life balance, and family relocation options are pivotal, as nurses often prioritize long-term stability over short-term gains.

Top Countries for Nurses After OET

Based on current demand metrics, where the US and UK lead with shortages exceeding 200,000 each, here are the premier destinations. I've ranked them based on a holistic score that incorporates salary, demand, and livability, drawing from my consultations.

United States - The US tops the list in 2025 due to its massive demand—projected at 195,000 new nurses annually—and high earnings. OET is now accepted for VisaScreen certification, which is essential for obtaining a green card. States like California and Texas offer specialized roles in critical care. For example, a Filipino nurse I advised, Maria, transitioned from Manila to a Houston hospital in 2024 via an EB-3 visa, which boosted her income threefold while allowing her to enjoy diverse, multicultural teams.
Australia - With a shortage of 85,000 nurses by 2025, Australia remains a powerhouse, accepting OET via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Its outdoor lifestyle and work-life balance appeal to many. Rural incentives add bonuses; consider Priya, an Indian nurse who moved to Queensland in 2023, gaining permanent residency quickly and appreciating the family-friendly environment.
Canada - Canada's demand surges with 60,000 openings yearly, fueled by an aging population. OET is now widely accepted for registration in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, supporting Express Entry immigration. A Nigerian nurse, Ahmed, whom I guided, settled in Toronto in 2024, praising the universal healthcare system's emphasis on preventive care.
United Kingdom - The NHS faces a 40,000-nurse shortfall, making the UK a staple for OET holders. Multicultural hubs like London offer growth opportunities in specialties such as oncology. Sarah, a Kenyan nurse I consulted, joined an NHS trust in Manchester in 2025, benefiting from training programs that advanced her to a senior role within a year.
New Zealand - Boasting a relaxed pace and natural beauty, New Zealand needs 10,000 more nurses by 2030. OET facilitates registration with the Nursing Council. An example is Elena from the Philippines, who relocated to Auckland in 2024, valuing the supportive community and outdoor adventures.
Ireland - Ireland's growing sector demands 5,000 nurses annually, with OET accepted by the Nursing and Midwifery Board. Its cultural warmth suits families; John, a South African nurse, moved to Dublin in 2023, taking advantage of relocation packages that eased his transition.

Visa and Work Permit Process

Immigration policies in 2025 reflect urgency in filling gaps, with streamlined pathways for OET-qualified nurses. However, US changes under recent administrations have tightened enforcement, which has impacted timelines.

United States: EB-3 visas are the most prevalent, requiring employer sponsorship and a VisaScreen (OET-accepted) evaluation. Processing averages 12-18 months; the June 2025 Visa Bulletin advanced dates for many countries. H-1B is rarer for nurses but possible for advanced roles.
Australia: From March 2025, internationally qualified nurses will benefit from faster AHPRA registration (6-12 months shorter). Options include the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa or Skilled Independent (189), often leading to PR.
Canada: The Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) process typically takes 6-8 months. OET supports language points; new PASS programs aid integration.
United Kingdom: The Health and Care Worker visa, under the Skilled Worker category, offers terms of 3-5 years with sponsorship. Applications take 3-8 weeks.
New Zealand: The Skilled Migrant Category or Accredited Employer Work Visa requires a job offer, with processing taking 6-9 months.
Ireland: Fast-track Critical Skills Employment Permits in 2-3 months, with family options.

Salary Expectations and Benefits

Salaries have increased by 5-10% since 2023, primarily due to inflation and rising demand, but vary depending on experience. Specialized nurses (e.g., those in the ICU) earn 20% more.

United States: $85,000-USD 100,000 annually, with bonuses up to $10,000. Benefits include 401(k) matching and tuition aid.
Australia: AUD 70,000-100,000 (~USD 46,000-66,000), plus superannuation (12% employer contribution).
Canada: CAD 70,000-110,000 (~USD 51,000-80,000), with healthcare coverage and pensions.
United Kingdom: £29,000-45,000 (~USD 37,000-58,000), including 27 days leave and NHS pensions.
New Zealand: NZD 65,000-85,000 (~USD 39,000-51,000), with relocation support.
Ireland: €38,000-50,000 (~USD 41,000-54,000), plus maternity leave and housing aid.

Cost of Living and Lifestyle

Cost of living indices show urban areas like New York or Sydney at 20-30?o ve averages, but salaries compensate. Nurses often opt for the suburbs for affordability.

United States: High in cities (e.g., $3,000/month rent in NYC), but rural incentives offset. Lifestyle: Dynamic, with cultural diversity.
Australia: Sydney rents average AUD 2,500/month; balanced by beaches and 20+ days leave.
Canada: Toronto costs CAD 2,800/month; multiculturalism and nature enhance family life.
United Kingdom: London at £2,000/month; vibrant history and free NHS care.
New Zealand: Auckland at NZD 2,200/month; safe, outdoor-focused.
Ireland: Dublin €2,000/month; friendly communities and scenic escapes.

In 2025, the US emerges as the best overall destination for high earners seeking dynamic opportunities, while Australia and Canada excel in terms of settlement and balance. Your choice hinges on priorities—demand favours the US and UK, quality of life suits New Zealand and Ireland.

Based on my expertise, start with OET preparation via platforms like OETpro, then align your credentials with the target regulators. Consult immigration specialists early; examples like Maria's US success underscore the value of preparation. Ultimately, these nations not only fill shortages but also enrich the lives of nurses, fostering global healthcare equity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Which country accepts OET for nurses?
The UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, the US, Singapore, and other countries recognize OET for registration purposes.

Q2. Which country has the best scope for nursing?
The US and Australia offer broad scopes with advanced tech and specialties.

Q3. Which is the best country to settle in as a nurse?
Canada and New Zealand provide stable PR paths and high livability.

Q4. Which country has the highest demand for nurses?
The US and UK have shortages of over 200,000 each.

Q5. Which country pays a high salary for nurses?
The US and Switzerland lead, with averages exceeding USD 100,000.