National and European Policies on Immigrant Nurses in the Labor Market: Challenges and Analysis

Abstract Problem/Issue The growing immigration of foreign nurses in Italy and Europe poses challenges for healthcare, affecting integration, care quality, and resource access. Bureaucratic, linguistic, and cultural barriers slow participation. Ensuring a qualified, inclusive workforce is crucial for public health. This intervention aims to optimize policies for nurse integration, addressing shortages and rising healthcare demands. Problem Description This policy examines immigrant nurse integration in Italy and Europe, focusing on qualification recognition, language barriers, and career opportunities. Despite EU free movement directives, processes remain complex. Objectives include simplifying qualification recognition, enhancing training, and ensuring equal access. Methods include policy analysis, data collection, and best-practice comparisons. Key Questions: How do Italian and EU policies influence nurse integration? What are the main barriers to qualification recognition? How can other countries’ experiences inform Italian policies? Results Findings show policies are insufficient for smooth integration. Challenges include: lengthy, complex qualification recognition; lack of language and training support; workplace discrimination. Best practices from Germany and the UK show language courses and mentorship improve integration. Lessons Learned Simplifying qualification recognition is essential; Language and cultural support programs ease workplace integration; National and local policies should promote inclusion through administrative and cultural changes. Key messages • Immigrant nurse integration strengthens healthcare in Italy and Europe. • Effective policies on qualification recognition and language support reduce barriers.