11 fully paid nursing internships abroad in Europe for international students in 2026. Learn about application requirements, stipends, visa processes, and top hospitals sponsoring interns.
For international nursing students seeking to expand their clinical experience, fully paid internships abroad offer a unique blend of professional training, cultural immersion, and financial support. If you’ve ever wondered, “Which European countries offer paid nursing placements?” or “Can I apply without an EU passport?”, this guide answers those questions in detail. These programs are structured to provide hands-on exposure in high-standard healthcare settings while compensating students with monthly stipends ranging from €800 to €1,300. Beyond earning potential, participating in a European nursing internship strengthens your resume, enhances cultural competence, and gives you invaluable insight into global healthcare systems.
European hospitals host international students for rotations in diverse wards including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, and community care. Most programs pair students with experienced nurse mentors who guide daily activities, ensure compliance with clinical protocols, and provide consistent feedback. Interns are actively involved in patient care tasks, documentation, and care planning, making the experience more than mere observation. These structured, practical learning opportunities equip nursing students with transferable skills recognized worldwide.
Another key benefit of European nursing internships is accessibility for non-EU students. Many programs now explicitly welcome global applicants, provided they are enrolled in an accredited nursing program, submit transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may prefer or require basic knowledge of the host country’s language, but English is widely accepted in most teaching hospitals. Interns are also provided guidance on accommodation, orientation, and integration into hospital teams, easing the transition into a foreign healthcare environment.
Visa requirements vary by country but are generally straightforward for students accepted into fully paid nursing programs. Interns usually apply for short-term internship or trainee visas, allowing legal work and residence for the duration of the program. Most countries also provide advice on health insurance, vaccinations, and administrative paperwork. By planning early, students can navigate these requirements efficiently, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant placement.
Finally, the competitiveness and duration of these programs are important factors to consider. While some programs receive a high number of applications, proper preparation, a strong academic record, clinical experience, and cultural adaptability increase your chances of acceptance. Internship durations typically range from 10 to 24 weeks, allowing students to rotate across multiple departments, gain comprehensive clinical exposure, and earn a meaningful stipend while learning. These fully paid programs represent a golden opportunity for international nursing students to gain global experience without financial strain.
1. United Kingdom – NHS Nursing Internship (Paid)
The United Kingdom has long been a destination of choice for international nursing trainees, largely due to the structured NHS Nursing Internship Program offered in hospitals like St Thomas’ Hospital, King’s College Hospital, and Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Interns actively participate in patient care across wards such as general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and intensive care. Beyond direct clinical exposure, trainees also engage in patient education, case documentation, and ethical discussions about patient safety. Monthly stipends range from £900–1,200, providing financial support that allows interns to focus fully on learning without the pressure of side jobs. The program merges rigorous professional development with exposure to one of Europe’s most advanced healthcare systems.
Mentorship is central to the NHS approach, with each intern paired to a registered nurse who supervises daily tasks, provides feedback, and ensures compliance with UK clinical standards. Trainees attend regular ward meetings, multi-disciplinary case discussions, and professional development workshops. Interns gain firsthand exposure to evidence-based care, patient-centered approaches, and the operational intricacies of NHS hospitals. These programs emphasize both technical skills and professional soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and ethical decision-making.
Non-EU students can apply if they are enrolled in a recognized nursing program and can demonstrate English proficiency. Application materials typically include academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and references. Accepted students obtain a Tier 5 Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange visa, which allows legal work and residence during the internship. Knowledge of English is essential, though prior UK clinical experience is not required.
Competition for NHS internships is moderate but growing due to high demand. Applicants are assessed on clinical preparedness, academic performance, and personal motivation. Demonstrating flexibility, cultural awareness, and eagerness to learn significantly enhances the chances of acceptance. NHS hospitals aim to maintain a balance between mentoring capacity and high-quality training for interns.
Internships generally last 12–24 weeks, with workweeks of 37–40 hours. Monthly stipends are consistent, and some hospitals provide guidance or support for accommodation. Completing a UK NHS internship equips students with advanced clinical skills, familiarity with a structured healthcare system, and cultural competence, preparing them for a global nursing career.
2. Germany – Paid Nursing Trainee Program (International Students Welcome)
Germany has become increasingly attractive for international nursing trainees due to fully paid programs hosted in hospitals like Charité Berlin, University Hospital Heidelberg, and University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf. Interns engage in rotations across internal medicine, surgery, intensive care, geriatrics, and pediatrics. These programs involve active patient care, including monitoring vital signs, assisting with treatments, administering medications under supervision, and contributing to care planning. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,300, helping cover living expenses in cities such as Berlin, Leipzig, or Munich. Germany emphasizes structured mentorship and rigorous clinical exposure, providing a well-rounded professional experience.
Each intern is paired with an experienced nurse supervisor who provides guidance, monitors skill development, and offers feedback on performance. Weekly team meetings and workshops ensure interns understand hospital protocols, patient safety standards, and evidence-based care approaches. Germany’s structured healthcare system prioritizes high-quality care, professional ethics, and interdisciplinary teamwork, which enhances both technical and interpersonal skills. Interns rotate through multiple departments to gain broad exposure to patient populations and clinical procedures.
Non-EU applicants are eligible to apply if enrolled in a recognized nursing program, and they must demonstrate English or German proficiency. Required documents typically include transcripts, CV, vaccination records, and motivation letters. Accepted students apply for a German Internship Visa, which allows them to live and work legally during the program. Although German language skills are beneficial for patient interaction, many hospitals conduct mentorship in English, making the program accessible to international students.
Competition for placements is moderate, with hospitals seeking students who demonstrate strong motivation, adaptability, and readiness for clinical responsibility. Prior clinical experience, academic performance, and letters of recommendation increase the likelihood of acceptance. Germany balances the need for skilled trainees with the capacity of its mentoring staff, ensuring that internships remain meaningful and professionally enriching.
Programs generally last 10–24 weeks, with interns working 35–40 hours per week under supervision. Monthly pay is consistent, and some hospitals assist with housing or provide guidance on accommodation. Completing a German internship provides practical clinical experience, exposure to a top-tier European healthcare system, and a foundation for potential postgraduate study or employment in Europe.
3. Sweden – Paid Nursing Clinical Placement (Region Hospitals)
Sweden offers paid nursing internships through regional hospitals such as Karolinska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, and Skåne University Hospital, providing extensive clinical rotations across multiple wards. Interns actively participate in patient care including medication administration, wound care, patient education, and rehabilitation support. Stipends range from €950–1,300 per month, supporting living costs in Sweden’s major cities. The program emphasizes hands-on training, mentorship, and integration into multidisciplinary healthcare teams, blending professional development with cultural immersion.
Mentorship is central in Sweden, with experienced nurses providing direct supervision, structured feedback, and guidance on evidence-based practice. Interns attend case discussions, ward meetings, and professional development workshops to gain a complete understanding of Swedish healthcare protocols and patient-centered care. The program focuses on ethical practice, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring interns develop both technical skills and critical thinking abilities.
Non-EU students are eligible if enrolled in a recognized nursing program and have proof of English proficiency. Applications include CVs, academic transcripts, vaccination records, and recommendation letters. Accepted students apply for a Swedish Trainee Visa, which allows legal residence and work. Basic Swedish language is beneficial but not required as supervision is often conducted in English.
Competition is moderate due to the high quality of training. Applicants are evaluated on prior clinical experience, academic performance, motivation, and adaptability. Hospitals maintain a balance between providing high-quality mentorship and accommodating international trainees.
Internships usually last 12–24 weeks, with workweeks of 35–40 hours. Monthly stipends are consistent, and some hospitals assist with housing or provide guidance on finding accommodation. Completing a Swedish internship equips students with advanced clinical skills, exposure to a highly efficient healthcare system, and valuable international experience.
4. Norway – Fully Paid Nursing Assistant Training Pathway
Norway hosts international nursing trainees in fully paid assistant programs through hospitals such as Oslo University Hospital, Stavanger University Hospital, and Bergen Hospital Trust. Interns rotate through medical, surgical, and community care departments, actively participating in patient care including monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, administering treatments under supervision, and documenting care. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,200, sufficient to cover living expenses in most Norwegian cities. These programs combine hands-on clinical training with mentorship in a culturally rich environment.
Supervision is highly structured, with each trainee paired to a senior nurse for guidance, oversight, and feedback. Interns participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, case discussions, and workshops on patient safety and hospital protocols. Norway emphasizes evidence-based care, patient-centered practice, and collaborative teamwork. Interns develop not only technical skills but also problem-solving and communication abilities critical for professional nursing.
Non-EU applicants can apply, provided they are enrolled in an accredited nursing program. Application requirements include CV, academic transcripts, motivation letters, and proof of English proficiency. Accepted students receive a Norwegian Internship Visa, permitting legal work and residence. Knowledge of Norwegian is helpful but not mandatory, as English is widely used in teaching hospitals.
Competition is moderate, with preference for students demonstrating clinical readiness, adaptability, and professional maturity. Hospitals aim to provide meaningful mentorship while maintaining patient care standards. Successful interns gain exposure to one of Europe’s most organized and patient-centered healthcare systems.
Internships last typically 12–24 weeks, with 37–40 hours per week under supervision. Stipends are paid monthly, and hospitals sometimes assist with housing. Completing a Norwegian nursing internship provides extensive hands-on experience, cultural exposure, and professional networking opportunities that enhance career prospects internationally.
5. Denmark – Hospital Internship with Monthly Salary (International-Friendly)
Denmark has opened doors to international nursing trainees through programs in hospitals such as Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen, Aarhus University Hospital, and Odense University Hospital. These internships involve active rotations in wards like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and mental health. Interns participate in patient care tasks including administering medications under supervision, assisting in procedures, patient documentation, and care coordination. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,250, which can comfortably support living expenses in Denmark’s major cities, allowing students to focus on professional growth rather than finances.
Interns are paired with experienced nurse mentors who supervise their daily activities, provide continuous feedback, and guide professional development. Workshops, ward meetings, and case discussions are integral parts of the program. Denmark emphasizes patient safety, evidence-based care, and collaborative practice. Interns gain both practical skills and soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and cultural competence, making this a holistic training experience.
International students, including non-EU applicants, are welcome. Eligibility typically requires enrollment in a recognized nursing program, proof of English proficiency, and submission of CV, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters. Accepted students apply for a Danish Internship Visa, which allows legal work and residence for the program’s duration. Basic Danish language skills are advantageous but not mandatory, as supervision is often provided in English.
Competition for placements is moderate but growing due to the increasing popularity of Denmark’s healthcare training programs. Applicants demonstrating clinical readiness, motivation, adaptability, and cultural awareness have the best chances. Hospitals carefully balance mentorship availability with the number of interns accepted to maintain a high-quality experience.
Internships generally last 10–24 weeks, with workweeks of 35–40 hours. Monthly stipends are reliable, and some hospitals provide guidance or support for accommodation. Completing a Danish internship equips students with advanced clinical skills, cross-cultural experience, and exposure to one of Europe’s most efficient healthcare systems.
6. Finland – Healthcare Trainee Program for Global Nursing Students
Finland offers fully paid nursing internships through hospitals like Helsinki University Hospital, Tampere University Hospital, and Turku University Hospital, providing international students with clinical rotations across wards such as internal medicine, surgery, geriatrics, and pediatric care. Interns participate in hands-on patient care including administering treatments, patient monitoring, documentation, and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams. Monthly stipends range from €950–1,300, supporting living costs in Finland’s urban centers. These programs combine structured mentorship with practical clinical exposure, ensuring trainees gain both technical and professional skills.
Experienced nurse mentors oversee interns, providing guidance, feedback, and evaluation throughout the placement. Interns also attend team meetings, professional workshops, and case reviews. Finland’s healthcare system prioritizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and efficiency, providing an environment where interns learn both practical nursing skills and systemic healthcare knowledge. Cultural competence and soft skills are emphasized, enhancing trainees’ overall professional development.
Non-EU international students are eligible, provided they are enrolled in an accredited nursing program and demonstrate English proficiency. Application documents typically include CV, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and vaccination records. Accepted students obtain a Finnish Internship Visa, allowing them to live and work legally during their placement. Although knowledge of Finnish is useful for patient interaction, English is sufficient in most teaching hospitals.
Competition is moderate, with preference given to students who show adaptability, motivation, and clinical readiness. Hospitals aim to maintain quality mentorship and patient care standards, ensuring meaningful internships. A well-prepared application with strong academic credentials and prior clinical experience enhances acceptance chances.
Internships usually last 12–24 weeks, with workweeks of 35–40 hours. Monthly stipends are consistent, and some hospitals assist interns in finding accommodation. Completing a Finnish internship provides practical clinical experience, exposure to a highly organized healthcare system, and significant professional development for a global nursing career.
7. The Netherlands – Paid Nursing Internship in Public Hospitals
The Netherlands offers paid nursing internships for international students in hospitals such as Amsterdam University Medical Center, Erasmus Medical Center, and Radboud University Medical Center. Interns rotate through multiple clinical departments including surgery, internal medicine, geriatrics, and pediatrics. Daily responsibilities include assisting with patient care, administering treatments, observing clinical procedures, documentation, and participating in interdisciplinary meetings. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,250, covering living expenses in Dutch cities while gaining hands-on experience in a high-standard healthcare environment.
Interns receive structured mentorship from experienced nurses who supervise, evaluate, and provide feedback on clinical tasks. Interns also participate in workshops, ward meetings, and case reviews to understand hospital protocols and evidence-based practices. The Netherlands emphasizes patient-centered care, teamwork, and efficiency, ensuring trainees acquire both practical nursing skills and professional competencies essential for international careers.
International students, including those without an EU passport, are eligible if enrolled in an accredited nursing program and proficient in English. Applications generally require CVs, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and motivation letters. Accepted students apply for a Dutch Internship Visa, which allows legal work and residence during the program. Knowledge of Dutch is helpful but not mandatory as English is widely used for clinical training.
Competition is moderate, with preference for students demonstrating prior clinical experience, motivation, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Hospitals maintain a balance between mentoring capacity and high-quality training for interns, ensuring valuable learning experiences.
Internships usually last 10–24 weeks, with 35–40 hours per week under supervision. Monthly stipends are guaranteed, and hospitals may provide guidance for housing. Completing a Dutch internship equips students with advanced nursing skills, cultural competence, and exposure to an efficient, internationally recognized healthcare system.
8. Belgium – University Hospital Nursing Traineeship
Belgium’s university hospitals, including UZ Leuven, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, and UZ Ghent, offer fully paid nursing internships for international students. Interns participate in rotations across departments like internal medicine, surgery, emergency care, pediatrics, and intensive care. Tasks include assisting in patient care, administering medications under supervision, monitoring vital signs, documenting care, and contributing to care planning. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,200, supporting living costs while focusing on gaining substantial professional experience.
Mentorship is central, with interns paired to senior nurses for daily supervision and guidance. Interns attend professional workshops, ward meetings, and multidisciplinary case discussions to understand hospital protocols, evidence-based practices, and patient-centered care. Belgium emphasizes practical training combined with professional development, ensuring interns build both technical and interpersonal skills.
Non-EU students are eligible if enrolled in a recognized nursing program and can demonstrate English proficiency. Applications typically require CVs, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and motivation statements. Accepted applicants apply for a Belgian Internship Visa, which permits legal residence and work during the internship. Basic knowledge of French or Dutch is advantageous but not mandatory.
Competition is moderate, with hospitals seeking students who demonstrate motivation, adaptability, and readiness for clinical responsibility. Prior clinical experience, academic performance, and professional references improve acceptance odds.
Internships typically last 12–24 weeks, with 35–40 hours per week. Stipends are consistent, and hospitals may guide students to suitable accommodation. Completing a Belgian nursing internship provides advanced clinical experience, exposure to international healthcare systems, and professional growth opportunities.
9. Ireland – Paid HSE Nursing Internship for Foreign Students
Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) offers fully paid nursing internships for international students in hospitals like St. James’s Hospital, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, and Cork University Hospital. Interns rotate through medical, surgical, pediatric, and elderly care departments, performing hands-on clinical tasks such as administering medications under supervision, patient documentation, and assisting in treatment plans. Stipends range from €900–1,200 per month, supporting living expenses while gaining structured clinical experience.
Interns are guided by senior nurses who provide supervision, training, and evaluation. They participate in professional development workshops, ward meetings, and case discussions. Ireland emphasizes patient-centered care, collaborative teamwork, and evidence-based nursing practices. Interns gain both technical and soft skills critical for international nursing careers, including communication, problem-solving, and cross-cultural competency.
Non-EU students can apply provided they are enrolled in an accredited nursing program and meet English language requirements. Applications typically include CVs, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and motivation letters. Accepted students obtain an Irish Trainee Visa, allowing legal work and residence for the duration of the program.
Competition is moderate but rising due to the growing reputation of Ireland’s healthcare internships. Hospitals assess applicants based on clinical readiness, academic performance, and adaptability. Students with prior clinical exposure, strong motivation, and professionalism have higher acceptance chances.
Internships last 12–24 weeks, with 35–40 hours per week. Stipends are reliable, and some hospitals assist with accommodation or guidance for housing. Completing a nursing internship in Ireland provides hands-on clinical experience, exposure to an English-speaking healthcare system, and an enhanced international nursing profile.
10. Malta – Nursing Internship With Monthly Pay for International Students
Malta provides fully paid nursing internships through hospitals like Mater Dei Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital, welcoming international students to clinical rotations across general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and community care. Interns perform hands-on patient care under supervision, assist in procedures, administer medications, monitor vital signs, and document patient progress. Monthly stipends range from €850–1,100, sufficient to cover living costs in Malta’s urban centers while focusing on professional development.
Interns receive guidance and mentorship from senior nurses who supervise clinical duties, provide feedback, and help interns integrate into multidisciplinary teams. Trainees also attend workshops and ward meetings covering hospital procedures, patient safety, and ethical practices. Malta emphasizes experiential learning, professional mentorship, and cross-cultural competence, helping interns grow both clinically and personally.
Non-EU students can apply if enrolled in an accredited nursing program and proficient in English. Required application documents include CV, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and vaccination records. Accepted interns receive a Malta Internship Visa, which permits legal work and residence. Maltese language skills are not mandatory as English is widely used in hospitals.
Competition is moderate, with hospitals selecting students based on clinical readiness, motivation, and adaptability. Interns who demonstrate strong work ethic and prior clinical experience tend to be favored.
Internships typically last 12–20 weeks, with 35–40 hours per week. Stipends are provided monthly, and hospitals may offer guidance on accommodation. Completing a Malta internship equips students with practical nursing skills, cultural exposure, and experience in a multilingual healthcare system.
11. Austria – Paid Praktikum in Nursing (International Applicants Eligible)
Austria offers paid nursing internships for international students through hospitals such as AKH Vienna, LKH Graz, and Salzburg University Hospital, providing rotations in surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Interns engage in patient care tasks including administering medications under supervision, documenting care, assisting in procedures, and participating in patient education. Monthly stipends range from €900–1,250, helping cover living costs in Austrian cities while receiving professional training in a structured healthcare environment.
Interns are paired with experienced nurse mentors who provide supervision, feedback, and guidance on hospital protocols. They also attend workshops, ward meetings, and case reviews to understand patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based practices. Austria emphasizes professionalism, ethical practice, and teamwork, ensuring interns develop both technical nursing skills and soft skills.
Non-EU applicants are welcome if enrolled in an accredited nursing program and proficient in English. Applications typically include CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and motivation statements. Accepted interns receive an Austrian Internship Visa, allowing legal residence and work. Basic German is helpful but not mandatory for clinical supervision, as many hospitals provide mentorship in English.
Competition is moderate, with hospitals assessing applicants on clinical experience, academic record, motivation, and adaptability. Applicants demonstrating readiness for clinical responsibilities and cultural flexibility have the best chances.
Internships usually last 10–24 weeks, with workweeks of 35–40 hours. Monthly stipends are reliable, and hospitals may provide guidance for accommodation. Completing an Austrian nursing internship equips students with practical experience, exposure to an efficient European healthcare system, and professional skills that enhance global employability.