Why Germany is Better Than the UK for Nurses in the Current Immigration Scenario

In today’s global healthcare landscape, nurses continue to be in high demand, especially in developed nations like Germany and the United Kingdom. Both countries have long been attractive destinations for international healthcare professionals. However, in the current immigration climate of 2025, Germany stands out as a more nurse-friendly destination than the UK. From easier immigration pathways to better integration support and long-term residency opportunities, Germany offers a more stable and promising future for foreign-trained nurses.

Let’s take a deeper look into why Germany is now considered a better option than the UK for nurses seeking to work and settle abroad.

1. Simplified Immigration Pathways for Nurses

Germany has actively reformed its immigration policies in recent years to combat an ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals. Through initiatives like the Triple Win Program, the Recognition of Foreign Qualifications Act, and the German Skilled Immigration Act, the country has made it easier for foreign-trained nurses, including those from non-EU countries, to move, work, and gain recognition for their qualifications.

In contrast, the UK has tightened its immigration rules post-Brexit. The country’s points-based immigration system requires foreign nurses to secure a Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer and pass the IELTS or OET exam, in addition to registering with the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council). These steps are not only complex but also expensive and time-consuming.

Germany, on the other hand, allows nurses to enter the country with a recognition or adaptation visa, and they can complete their qualification recognition while working under supervision.

2. No IELTS/OET Required to Enter

One of the biggest advantages for nurses migrating to Germany is that language proficiency requirements are less restrictive compared to the UK. While Germany does require nurses to learn German (usually up to B1 or B2 level), this can often be done through employer-sponsored language training.

The UK requires nurses to pass IELTS (minimum band 7.0) or OET before they can even register or apply for a work visa, making it a major hurdle for many otherwise qualified applicants.

Germany’s more flexible approach makes it easier for international nurses, especially from non-English-speaking countries like India and the Philippines, to begin their migration journey.

3. Job Security and High Demand

Germany is facing a critical shortage of nurses, with estimates suggesting the country will need over 500,000 additional healthcare workers by 2030. As a result, hospitals and elderly care homes are offering attractive employment packages, including paid language training, relocation assistance, and even temporary housing.

While the UK also faces shortages in nursing staff, the immigration environment has become less welcoming, with frequent changes in visa fees, requirements, and job sponsorship rules. Moreover, recent government discussions about reducing the number of foreign workers have made many international applicants uncertain about job stability in the UK.

Germany’s long-term demand and workforce planning make it a more secure and predictable option for nurses seeking stable employment.

4. Affordable and Supportive Adaptation Process

In Germany, foreign-trained nurses usually go through a “recognition process” to match their qualifications to German standards. If any gaps are found, candidates are offered adaptation training or exams to bridge the difference. Many employers and state governments subsidize or fully fund this process.

In contrast, the UK’s nursing registration through the NMC is often a costly and lengthy process, involving high exam fees (CBT and OSCE), NMC registration fees, and other hidden costs such as travel and accommodation for tests.

Germany’s more inclusive and employer-supported recognition process ensures nurses do not bear the entire financial burden of immigration and adaptation.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Germany offers a clear and attainable route to permanent residency (PR). After just 33 months of working and paying taxes (or 21 months with strong German language skills), nurses can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship is also possible after 5 years under proposed 2024 reforms.

In the UK, permanent residency typically requires 5 years of continuous employment under sponsorship, followed by Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual citizenship. However, the costs associated with visa renewals, NHS surcharge, and settlement application are significantly higher than in Germany.

This makes Germany a more cost-effective and time-efficient destination for nurses seeking long-term settlement.

6. Better Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance

Germany is known for its excellent healthcare system, strong labor laws, and high standard of living. Nurses in Germany typically enjoy regulated working hours, paid vacation, social security benefits, and public healthcare.

While the UK also offers a good standard of living, the cost of living—especially in cities like London—is much higher. Combined with the uncertainties in post-Brexit immigration and employment policies, many nurses are re-evaluating the UK as a long-term destination.

As global migration trends evolve, Germany has emerged as a top destination for nurses seeking secure employment, professional growth, and long-term residency. Its flexible immigration policies, nurse-friendly programs, lower financial barriers, and faster PR pathways make it a better choice than the UK in 2025.

For nurses from India, the Philippines, Africa, and other non-EU countries, Germany provides a more welcoming, structured, and supportive environment to build a future in healthcare.