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Which countries make you learn a new language?

Language rules for US nurses, country by country

Updated November 5, 2026 · Facts checked against the sources listed below

Which countries make you learn a new language?. Language rules for US nurses, country by country
No new language, but they still check. The UK accepts IELTS Academic or OET: Or other English evidence. Trained in a majority English-speaking country?: In the UK, a transcript can be your proof. Every regulator has its own rules: Check what counts before you apply

ENGLISH SPEAKING

1. No new language, but they still check

  • The UK accepts IELTS Academic or OETOr other English evidence
  • Trained in a majority English-speaking country?In the UK, a transcript can be your proof
  • Every regulator has its own rulesCheck what counts before you apply

Source: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), UK.

German at B2. B2 German for nurse recognition: On the European language scale. Some states add a specialist exam: Nursing-specific German. Rules vary by state: Ask the authority that handles your case

GERMANY

2. German at B2

  • B2 German for nurse recognitionOn the European language scale
  • Some states add a specialist examNursing-specific German
  • Rules vary by stateAsk the authority that handles your case

Source: Recognition in Germany (German federal government).

Dutch at B1 or B2. B1 for MBO-level nursing: B2 for higher vocational education. Proof: the NT2 State Exam or CNaVT: Other certificates don't count. Learning Dutch takes time: 1.5 to 2 years on average

THE NETHERLANDS

3. Dutch at B1 or B2

  • B1 for MBO-level nursingB2 for higher vocational education
  • Proof: the NT2 State Exam or CNaVTOther certificates don't count
  • Learning Dutch takes time1.5 to 2 years on average

Source: BIG register (CIBG).

French for a Quebec permit. Nurses need appropriate French: Quebec's French language law requires it. Studied 3+ years in French?: That can count as proof. Otherwise, an OQLF certificate: From Quebec's French language office

QUEBEC, CANADA

4. French for a Quebec permit

  • Nurses need appropriate FrenchQuebec's French language law requires it
  • Studied 3+ years in French?That can count as proof
  • Otherwise, an OQLF certificateFrom Quebec's French language office

Source: Charter of the French language, section 35.

Start before you apply. Pick your country, then check its language rule. Find out which test or certificate it accepts. Start lessons now; it takes longer than you think. Learn medical vocabulary, not just small talk

YOUR PLAN

5. Start before you apply

  • Pick your country, then check its language rule
  • Find out which test or certificate it accepts
  • Start lessons now; it takes longer than you think
  • Learn medical vocabulary, not just small talk

Educational only, not immigration, legal or tax advice. Rules, pay and costs change; confirm with the country's nursing regulator and immigration authority.

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