Top 10 Highest Paying Countries for Nurses 2026: Salaries & Skills

The World Health Organization (WHO) projects that the global shortage of Nurses would reach 9 million by 2030. Amidst this, the curious question arises: Which are the top 10 highest paying countries for nurses in 2026?

Nurses typically need a 4-year degree in nursing and must be licensed to practice. Moving further, let us explore the 10 best countries for nurses to work and live, compiled according to the annual income for nurses in each country.

List of Top 10 Highest Paying Countries for Nurses in 2026

Many countries offer competitive job opportunities for nurses and pay packages. Check out the nurse salary in different countries with excellent healthcare systems, and a high quality of life awaits. 

1. Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the top paying countries for nurses. The average salary for a nurse in Switzerland is around USD 94,869 per year. The high salaries in Switzerland are due to the high cost of living in the country. Nurses in Switzerland make about 25% more than the average worker in the country. This is because there is a high demand for nurses and a shortage of qualified workers.

The Swiss government has also put into place policies that help to attract and retain nurses. For example, the government offers tuition reimbursement for nurses who want to further their education. Nurses in Switzerland are also eligible to receive tax breaks and other benefits.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Switzerland: USD 72,905

Experienced Nurse Salary in Switzerland: USD 112,900

Top Recruiters: Hirslanden Group, University Hospital Zurich, Geneva University Hospitals,

Nurse Registration Process in Switzerland

• Nursing professional license: You must have a professional nursing license that certifies your eligibility to practice nursing.
• Verify Credentials: You need to get your credentials as per verification with the Swiss Red Cross.
• Prepare Documents: Gather all the required documents, including a certificate of professional status, Diploma, professional license, and references. Refer to the Swiss Red Cross to know more about the documents required for registration.
• Pay the fees: After completing all the requirements, you will need to pay the registration fees to the Swiss Red Cross.

Also Read: Switzerland Jobs for Indians

2. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is next on the list of the top 10 highest paying countries for nurses, and nurses are also among the highest paying jobs in Luxembourg. The average salary for a nurse in Luxembourg is USD 90,467. The cost of living in Luxembourg is high, but nurses can still expect to take home a good salary. There are many job opportunities for nurses in Luxembourg, and the country has a strong healthcare system.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Luxembourg: USD 40,977

Experienced Nurse Salary in Luxembourg: USD 118,751

Top Recruiters: Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL), Centre Hospitalier du Nord (CHdN), Hopitaux Robert Schuman

Nurse Registration Process in Luxembourg

• Proof of certification: You need to submit proof that you are a certified nurse and have a recognized nursing diploma (3 years).
• Submit the application: You would need to submit the application for recognition to the Ministry of Higher Education and Research.
• Language proficiency: You need to understand at least one of the three administrative languages of Luxembourg (Luxembourgish, French, or German) minimum B2 level.
• Experience: You would need a minimum of one year of experience to be considered for employment.

3. United States

According to a recent study, the United States is the top paying country for nurses. The average salary for a nurse in the US is USD 82,750 per year. However, salaries of professionals in the US Healthcare System can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and employer.

For example, nurses in rural areas may earn significantly less than those in urban areas. Nurses who work in hospitals tend to earn more than those who work in doctor's offices or clinics.

In addition to a competitive salary, nurses in the United States also enjoy great benefits. Most employers offer health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for nurses who want to further their education.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in United States: USD 56,000

Experienced Nurse Salary in United States: USD 118,000

Top Recruiters: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital

Nurse Registration Process in the USA

• Complete a nursing program: You need to complete a nursing program that is recognized by the USA.
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam: You must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
• Get a State License: After registration, you must obtain a nursing license from the state where you want to practice nursing.
• Employment: Once you have obtained the license, you start working as a nurse.

4. Virgin Islands

If you are thinking about which country is best for nursing jobs, the Virgin Islands offers competitive salaries, to be featured in the top 10 highest paying countries for nurses. With a starting salary of around USD 74,710 per year, nurses in the Virgin Islands can expect to earn a comfortable wage.

In addition to their high salaries, nurses in the Virgin Islands also enjoy several other benefits, including free housing and travel expenses.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Virgin Islands: USD 60,000

Experienced Nurse Salary in Virgin Islands: USD 99,000

Top Recruiters: Schneider Regional Medical Center, Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center, Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center

Nurse Registration Process in Virgin Islands

• Submit application: You would need to fill out an application for registration as a nurse and submit it to the government’s Department of Health.
• Nursing License: Submit a recognized nursing license along with the application.
• Submit Other Documents: Submit all the other required documents as mentioned in the application for nurse licensure.

5. Denmark

Denmark is consistently ranked as one of the best countries to live and work in and also falls among the top paying countries for nurses. It offers a high quality of life, with excellent working conditions and wages. Nurses in Denmark earn an average salary of USD 58,266 per year.

The Danish healthcare system is world-renowned, and nurses play a vital role in providing high-quality care. In addition to their salaries, nurses in Denmark also enjoy several other benefits, including paid vacation days and sick days, free health insurance, and retirement planning.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Denmark: USD 43,072

Experienced Nurse Salary in Denmark: USD 89,112

Top Recruiters: Rigshospitalet, Odense University Hospital, Aarhus University Hospital

Nurse Registration Process in Denmark

• Submit application: You need to submit an application online along with the required documents mentioned in the application. To know more about the application, refer to the application and approval of qualifications.
• Language test: You must successfully complete the Danish language test "Prøve I Dansk 3" also known as the Danish 3 Exam with a minimum score of 10, 7,7.
• Employment for adaptation and training purposes: Once you have cleared your language test, you need to take up employment to show your medical skills. Further information refers to Employment for adaptation and training purposes.

6. Australia

Australia is a highly sought-after destination for nurses, and it’s not hard to see why. The country is the best country for nursing salaries and provides a high standard of living.

There is a great demand for nurses in Australia, so if you’re thinking of making the move, you’ll be in good company. The country has a large ageing population, and with our increasing life expectancy, that number is only going to grow.

This means there will be plenty of opportunities for nurses who want to work in Australia, and with such high wages (Nurse Salary in Australia) on offer, it’s an attractive proposition for many. Also, check salary of nurse in Australia per month in Indian rupees.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Australia: USD 49,287 (INR 3.41 lakh per month)

Experienced Nurse Salary in Australia: USD 77,469 (INR 5,35,827 per month)

Top Recruiters: St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital

Nurse Registration Process in Australia

• Qualification: Submit the qualification documents for verification.
• Assessment fees: You need to pay the assessment fee of USD 640.
• Orientation: Attend the 1-hour e-learning course on AHPRA’s portal.
• Documents: Submit all the necessary documents AHPRA guidelines.
• NCLEX exam: You must pass the NCLEX exam. You would need to pay approx. USD 505 for the exam.

Explore the Features You Should Know about Public Healthcare in Australia.

7. Israel

As a nurse, you will have plenty of job options, no matter where in the world you choose to work. But if you're looking for the highest-paying countries for nurses, your best bet is to look toward the Middle East. In particular, Israel is one of the top destinations for nurses looking to earn a high salary.

According to recent data, the average salary for a nurse in Israel is around USD 53,768 per year. This is significantly higher than the average salary for a nurse in other countries. And when you factor in the cost of living in Israel, it's even more impressive. Refer to Israel's nurse registration to know about the registration process.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Israel: USD 34,149

Experienced Nurse Salary in Israel: USD 67,072

Top Recruiters: Sheba Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus

Nurse Registration Process in Israel

The nurse registration process in Israel generally involves:

• Eligibility and Qualifications: Meeting eligibility criteria, including completion of an accredited nursing program and proficiency in Hebrew.
• Application Submission: Submitting an application to the Ministry of Health with required documentation.
• Licensing Exam: Passing a licensing examination and demonstrating proficiency in Hebrew.
• Verification: Possibly attending an interview and undergoing a background check.
• Fee Payment: Paying a registration fee.

8. Canada

According to a recent study, Canada is considered among the highest salary paying country for nurses. Along with the benefits of associating with the Healthcare System in Canada there are many reasons why Canada is such a great place to work as a nurse.

For one, the country has an ageing population, and there is a high demand for nurses. Additionally, the working conditions in Canada are excellent, and nurses receive great benefits.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Canada: USD 41,445

Experienced Nurse Salary in Canada: USD 63,378

Top Recruiter: Montreal General Hospital, Toronto General Hospital, Vancouver General Hospital

Also Read: Canada Immigration For Nurses From India

Nurse Registration Process in Canada

To register as a nurse in Canada, you would need to fulfil the registration requirements as stated by the Canadian government. Below are all the requirements you need to fulfil to work as a nurse in Canada.

• Proof of Nurse Education: Submit the proof that shows you have completed the nurse education.
• Evidence of Practice: Show evidence of your recent experience working as a nurse.
• Complete the Registration Exam: Clear the nurse registration exam in Canada.
• Jurisprudence Exam: Complete the Canadian jurisprudence exam successfully.
• Proof of Language Proficiency: Show proof of language proficiency in either French or English.
• Citizenship: You should either be a permanent Canadian resident, a Canadian citizen, or an authorized immigrant.
• Past Offences: Mention truthfully whether you have been found guilty of any offences in the past.
• Health and Conduct: In case you have suffered from any mental or physical disorder or condition.

9. Germany

If you are thinking about which country is best for nursing jobs, Germany is one of the highest paying countries for nurses. Nurses in Germany earn an average salary of USD 37,562 per year. There are several reasons why Germany is a highest salary paying country for nurses. One reason is that the demand for nurses is very high.

There are over 1 million nursing positions available in Germany, and that number is expected to grow. The ageing population in Germany means that there will be an increasing need for healthcare services, and nurses will play a vital role in meeting this demand.

Another reason why German nurses earn such high salaries is the high cost of living in the country. The cost of living in Germany is about 20% higher than it is in the United States, so German nurses need to earn more money just to maintain their standard of living.

Also Read: Healthcare System in Germany

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Germany: USD 26,465

Experienced Nurse Salary in Germany: USD 68,681

Top Recruiters: University Hospital Frankfurst, University Hospital Heidelberg, Charite - Universitatsmerdizin Berlin

Nurse Registration Process in Germany

• Education: You must have a nursing degree or a university degree with at least three years of study.
• Language proficiency: You must have at least a B2 level of proficiency in the German language.
• Qualification: You must have a recognized nursing certificate to practice nursing in Germany.

Also Read: Nurse Salary in Germany

10. Chile

Chile is one of the highest paying countries for nurses. The average salary for a nurse in Chile is USD 27,255. This is again due to the high demand for nurses in Chile and the shortage of nurses. Nurses in Chile are in high demand due to the growing and ageing population.

The Chilean government is working to increase the number of nurses in the country by offering scholarships and loans to nursing students. Visit Chile’s official website to learn about the nurse registration process.

Entry Level Nurse Salary in Chile: USD 17,623

Experienced Nurse Salary in Chile: USD 30,772

Top Recruiters: Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Clinica Las Condes, Clinica Alemana, CLinica Las Condes

Nurse Registration Process in Chile

• Qualifications: To become a registered nurse in Chile, you must have completed an accredited nursing education program. This typically involves a bachelor's degree in nursing or an equivalent qualification.
• Chilean Nursing Board: The regulatory body responsible for nurse registration in Chile is the Consejo de Enfermería de Chile (Nursing Council of Chile). You will need to interact with this organization throughout the registration process.
• Application: Begin the registration process by completing an application form, which can be obtained from the Nursing Council of Chile. The form will require your personal details, educational qualifications, and any work experience you may have.
• Documentation: Along with the application form, you will need to provide supporting documents such as your nursing degree certificate, transcripts, identification documents, and a passport-sized photograph. These documents will need to be notarized and certified.
• Spanish Language Proficiency: Since Spanish is the official language of Chile, you may also need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. This can be done through language exams or by providing evidence of previous Spanish language education.

Country-wise Visa Options for Nurses in 2026

Now that we have listed the detailed country-wise salary ranges by experience, licensure & registration steps, top employers, required exams, etc, let us also explore the details of work visas and PR options for Nurses in the top 10 highest paying countries for nurses in 2026. The details are listed below:

Top Nursing Specialities in the World and Salaries

Before we wind up, don't you think it is very crucial that you should identify which is the highest nurse salary in different countries? Like doctors, nurses also have specialities and the ability to earn higher and work opportunities too vary based on their specializations. The list of the top 10 highest paying nurse specialities in the world, along with the average salary, is listed below:

Elevate Your Nursing Career with GetGIS Assistance

So, whether you're looking for an exciting new adventure or simply want to earn a good salary, be sure to check out our list of the top 10 highest paying countries for nurses. And if you want to work as highest paid nurses in the world, then GetGIS could be your assistance partner.

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