Choosing the right country for a Bachelor of Nursing is a very important decision because it affects your career, job opportunities, salary, and PR (Permanent Residency). Two of the most popular destinations for nursing are the UK and New Zealand. In this blog, we will compare both countries in terms of fees, job opportunities, PR, salary, and overall benefits.

Nursing in New Zealand
Pros (Advantages)
- PR Opportunities – Nursing is on the Green List in New Zealand, which means nurses are in high demand and PR chances are very good.
- High Demand for Nurses – There is a shortage of nurses in New Zealand, so job opportunities are high after graduation.
- Good Salary – Starting salary is higher compared to the UK.
- Good Lifestyle – New Zealand offers a peaceful environment, less population, and better work-life balance.
- Post Study Work Visa – After completing nursing, you can get a post-study work visa and work as a nurse.
- PR in 2–3 Years – You can apply for PR after getting a nursing job.
Cons (Disadvantages)
- Higher Fees – Nursing fees are expensive for international students.
- Small Country – Population is less, so the number of hospitals is also limited.
- Nursing Council Exam – You must pass a Nursing Council exam to become a registered nurse.

Nursing in the UK
Pros (Advantages)
- Lower Fees – Compared to New Zealand, some UK universities have lower tuition fees.
- Many Job Opportunities – The UK has a large healthcare system, so nursing jobs are available.
- NHS Jobs – Many students get jobs in hospitals after completing nursing.
- Part-Time Work Available – Students can work part-time while studying.
- International Exposure – UK degrees are recognized worldwide.
Cons (Disadvantages)
- PR Takes Longer – PR usually takes 5 years or more.
- Lower Salary – Starting salary is lower than New Zealand.
- High Work Pressure – Workload in hospitals can be high.
- Living Cost – Living expenses are high in cities like London.

Fees Comparison
| Country | Fees Per Year | Course Duration | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | High | 3 Years | Expensive |
| UK | Medium | 3 Years | Medium to High |
Salary Comparison
| Country | Starting Salary |
|---|---|
| New Zealand | High |
| UK | Medium |
PR Comparison
| Country | PR Time |
|---|---|
| New Zealand | 2–3 Years |
| UK | 5 Years |
Job Security
Job security is good in both countries because nursing is a high-demand profession worldwide. However, New Zealand has a higher shortage of nurses, which increases job chances and PR chances.
Final Conclusion: Which Country Is Better?
If your goal is Permanent Residency, high salary, and long-term settlement, then New Zealand is the better option.
If your goal is lower fees and studying in a well-known country, then the UK is a good option.
Final Advice for Students
Before choosing a country, always check:
- Your budget
- IELTS score
- Education loan
- PR goals
- Job opportunities after study
Choosing the right country can change your future, so make this decision carefully.
Short Summary
| If You Want | Choose |
|---|---|
| PR Fast | New Zealand |
| High Salary | New Zealand |
| Low Fees | UK |
| Job Opportunities | Both |
| Settlement | New Zealand |
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