Top 5 Countries for Sri Lankan Nurses in 2025
1. United Kingdom
The UK's Health and Care Worker Visa is the most accessible route for Sri Lankan nurses. Your employer sponsors you, covers the visa fee, and processing takes just 3–5 weeks. The NHS is actively recruiting internationally trained nurses through its International Nursing Programme. Starting salaries on NHS Band 5 are £28,407–£34,581 per year.
2. Australia
Australia has a chronic nursing shortage across hospitals, aged care, and rural health settings. Sri Lankan nurses with AHPRA registration and an IELTS score of 7.0+ can apply for the Subclass 482 (TSS) visa — which leads directly to permanent residency via Subclass 186. Average RN salary: AUD 75,000–95,000.
3. Germany
Germany recognises Sri Lankan nursing qualifications through a formal recognition process (Anerkennungsberatung). With basic German (B1 level) and a job offer from a German hospital, the Skilled Worker Visa takes 8–16 weeks. Average salary: €35,000–€45,000.
4. UAE
Dubai and Abu Dhabi private hospitals actively recruit Sri Lankan nurses. The employment visa is employer-sponsored and takes 2–4 weeks. Tax-free salaries of AED 6,000–12,000/month make UAE one of the best short-term destinations for savings.
5. Saudi Arabia
Saudi government hospitals offer competitive packages for registered nurses — often including free accommodation, flight allowance, and health insurance. Work visa processing takes 4–8 weeks. Average monthly package: SAR 5,000–9,000 tax-free.
What You Need
- Valid nursing licence from Sri Lanka (SLNC)
- IELTS Academic 7.0+ (or OET Grade B for UK/Australia)
- Skills assessment from relevant authority
- Police Clearance Certificate