Nursing Abroad for Pakistanis 2026
Pakistani nurses are in high demand globally, particularly in the UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Canada. This guide covers registration requirements, salary expectations, and the licensing process for each major destination.
Top Countries for Pakistani Nurses
| Country | Monthly Salary | Registration Body | IELTS Requirement | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK (NHS) | £2,200-£3,500 | NMC | 7.0 (each band) | Very High |
| Saudi Arabia | SAR 5,000-10,000 | SCFHS | Not required | Very High |
| UAE | AED 5,000-12,000 | DHA/DOH/MOH | Varies | Very High |
| Canada | CAD $4,500-$7,000 | Provincial bodies | 7.0 (each band) | Very High |
| Australia | AUD $5,500-$8,000 | AHPRA/NMBA | 7.0 (each band) | Very High |
| Ireland | €2,800-€4,000 | NMBI | 7.0 (each band) | High |
UK — NMC Registration Process
The UK is the most popular destination for Pakistani nurses due to the NHS Health and Care Worker visa (reduced fees).
- Pass IELTS Academic with 7.0 in each band (or OET B in each band)
- Apply to NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) for registration
- Complete the CBT (Computer-Based Test) at a Pearson VUE centre in Pakistan
- Receive a decision letter from NMC
- Get a job offer from an NHS trust or care provider with a sponsor licence
- Apply for the Health and Care Worker visa
- Complete OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) in the UK within 3 months of arrival
Middle East — Fastest Route
Saudi Arabia and UAE offer the fastest path for Pakistani nurses — no IELTS required for most positions, and processing takes 2-4 weeks. However, salaries are lower than Western countries and contracts are typically 2 years.