Transfer of internationally qualified nurses' specialty skills to developed countries after immigration: A multicentre policy review

Abstract

Background: Internationally qualified nurses are highly sought after as a labour source due to continued shortages in the nursing profession in most developed countries. However, the lack of clear policies and procedures for nurses in the host country to use specialty nursing skills can result in the underutilisation of their expertise.

Objectives: To review the registration processes of internationally qualified nurses in 20 developed countries, with a focus on the transferability of specialised skills gained overseas.

Methods: A multicentre policy review design was used, using the STROBE reporting guidelines. The study sourced policy information from nurse registration bodies in developed countries and reviewed and removed redundant policies.

Results: Out of 34 policies initially identified, 26 were used to show the registration process of nurses after immigration to developed countries. Only four of the 20 countries reviewed indicated the option of specialised nurse registration on their website for internationally qualified nurses, with a university qualification required before years of experience. All other countries indicated the general registration pathway only.

Implications for nursing policy: More attention is needed to address the lack of well-defined policies that guide the utilisation of internationally qualified nurses' specialised skills. Transparent procedures are essential to fully benefit from their expertise in the host country's health workforce.

Keywords: Internationally qualified nurses; mutual recognition; nurse registration policies; nursing shortage; policy review; skill underutilisation; specialty skill transfer; specialty skills recognition; transition support plan.