‘When I Migrated, I Faced Challenges but Gained Much More…’ Challenges and Support Needs of Internationally Educated Nurses—A Qualitative Study

AIM: This study aims to examine the experiences and support needs of internationally educated nurses (IENs) who migrated from Türkiye to different countries. BACKGROUND: With the impact of globalisation and changes in the healthcare sector, the migration of IENs is on the rise. The global shortage of nurses has prompted high-income countries to increase their recruitment of nurses from low- and middle-income countries. METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study included 16 nurses who had migrated to seven different countries: Germany (n = 3), England (n = 3), the USA (n = 3), Canada (n = 2), Sweden (n = 2), Ireland (n = 2) and Switzerland (n = 1). Data were collected between August and November 2024 using Google Meet. The data were analysed using content analysis. The COREQ Checklist was utilised for data analysis and reporting. RESULTS: Content analysis identified four main themes: (1) challenges encountered, (2) professional and personal development gains, (3) support needs and (4) recommendations for development and adaptation. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that IENs face challenges such as professional adjustment, language barriers and cultural differences, while also experiencing gains such as professional skill development and enhanced intercultural nursing competencies. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE AND POLICIES: The findings highlight the critical role of orientation and mentoring programmes that include language training, cultural awareness and psychological support and emphasise the need for more inclusive and sustainable health policies that support the integration of IENs. REPORTING METHOD: The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.