Working Internationally as a Travel CNA

Have you ever imagined yourself traveling the world as a CNA? In an increasingly interconnected world, the opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to work abroad have expanded significantly with many job opportunities. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates a shortage of 4.5 million nurses worldwide by 2030. Traveling as a CNA not only broadens professional horizons but also enriches personal experiences by immersing healthcare providers in diverse cultures and healthcare systems. This article is a shortened guide to the key aspects that you should consider when working abroad as a CNA, shedding light on the benefits, challenges, and steps to embark on this exciting career path.

Benefits of Becoming a Travel CNA Abroad

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). As a travel CNA, these duties remain the same but are performed in different countries. Travel CNA positions range from 30 days to 13 weeks, offering a unique opportunity to quickly develop new skills, learn various systems, and adapt to new environments.

Working as a CNA abroad comes with several important benefits:

Explore New Destinations: When you're off the clock, immerse yourself in the local culture and discover a new country. Travel CNAs have the chance to explore new cities and countries, making the most of their vacation time by visiting landmarks, enjoying local cuisine, and participating in cultural events.

Experience Life Like a Local: This is the ultimate travel experience to truly understand different lifestyles and cultures.

Gain Invaluable Experience: Working abroad not only enhances your resume but also opens up a world of adventure. This cultural immersion enriches personal growth and enhances communication skills, crucial for providing patient-centered care.

Increased Income: CNA salaries vary greatly depending on the region you live in. Traveling CNAs can sometimes earn a higher income than in their hometown.

Professional Networking: International experience can significantly boost a Nursing Assistant’s resume. Exposure to diverse healthcare systems and practices provides unique learning opportunities and working abroad allows CNAs to build a global professional network, connecting with healthcare professionals from around the world.

Travel CNA Requirements

Travel CNAs, also known as State-Tested Nurse Aides (STNAs) or Nursing Assistants, take on short-term assignments in various settings. Each country has its own requirements for healthcare workers. CNAs must research and comply with the licensing and certification processes of the host country, which may involve additional exams or training. It's helpful to already have your CNA license in your state with some minimal experience before applying to nursing agencies abroad.

To become a travel CNA, or Interim CNA, you need to have a high school diploma or GED and complete a state-approved training program and skills test. CNAs need to be state-tested before being eligible for travel. Occasionally, facilities might accept those with a temporary license, but this is rare.

You can use the websites Free CNA School Finder by entering your zip code and searching for CNA programs near you.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNA jobs are expected to grow in the United States by 8% from 2020 to 2030, which translates to 192,800 new CNA positions. Notably, traveling CNAs typically earn more than the average CNA salary. They often receive 10%-20% higher pay than standard CNAs in the same area.

Tips for International CNAs

If you're a CNA looking to explore new opportunities abroad, here are some essential tips to make your experience smoother and more fulfilling.

Secure the Right Visa: Before you start your job or volunteer position, ensure you have the correct visa. Often, the organization or healthcare provider can assist you with this process.

Start with Volunteering: This is the easiest way to get acquainted with the culture in a new country and gain the necessary experience. It is not necessary to choose long-term volunteering in a hospital. Even just a few weeks can help get your foot in the door for future employment. Plus, you can find a local healthcare organization that may hire you after an internship.

Be Open-Minded and Flexible: Adapting to a new environment and culture requires an open mind and a flexible attitude. Be prepared for different customs and ways of working.

Learn the Local Language: Learning the local language can significantly enhance your experience. It helps for better communication with patients and colleagues, and they will appreciate your effort. CNAs may need to learn basic phrases or even achieve proficiency in a new language.

Adapt to New Cultures: Don't be afraid to immerse yourself in a new culture. The more you adapt, the richer your experience will be. A good way to get to know the culture of a new country remotely is to watch movies and shows. For example, Hulu may have content from your target country and will give you an idea of the culture of the locals. You may have to watch with a VPN, like VeePN, to unblock the service and the content on it from anywhere in the world.

Research Physical Health Requirements: Before starting a travel CNA assignment, make sure you have required vaccinations and physical exams. Some countries may require a TB test, general physical exam, Covid vaccination, or flu shot completed within the last 12 months.

Start With a Hospital Visit Abroad: If you are really nervous, or want to better prepare, you may want to consider visiting a hospital abroad as part of your travels. You can usually walk into a hospital and ask the front desk questions about employment or volunteering. In addition to having your fears eased, you may also make some valuable connections. This may be where you will return as a traveling CNA.

Travel the World as a CNA

There are only a few key difficulties in starting to work as a travel CNA. First of all, these are differences in language and work style. But the specifics of the work themselves are not very different in most countries of the world. If you have at least a little work experience, professional difficulties will be minimal and can be mastered during practice.

Working abroad as a travel CNA offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth. It allows CNAs to gain invaluable experience, immerse themselves in new cultures, and contribute to global healthcare. While the journey may come with challenges, the rewards are immense, making it a truly enriching career path. And you’ll be contributing to the greater good. The International Council of Nurses says the potential of nurses working in global health care could contribute to the saving of up to 60 million lives and increase global life expectancy by 3.7 years by 2030. If you have a passion for nursing and a spirit of adventure, consider taking your CNA skills around the world and embarking on this extraordinary journey.