Context-Dependent Challenges in Nurse Migration: A Qualitative Study of Malaysian Nurses in Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Brunei.

AIM: This study explores the challenges experienced by Malaysian nurses working in Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and Brunei.

INTRODUCTION

Global nurse migration has intensified in response to workforce shortages and transnational healthcare demands. Although the experiences of internationally educated nurses have been widely examined, limited research has focused on the context-specific challenges encountered by Malaysian nurses across different host-country environments.

METHODS

A qualitative design was employed. In-depth virtual interviews were conducted with 12 Malaysian nurses recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis with the support of NVivo software. The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency.

RESULTS

Three themes were identified: (1) professional and practice challenges, (2) social and cultural challenges, and (3) psychological and interpersonal challenges. Participants reported experiences of restrictive credentialing systems, intensified workload expectations, technological and systematic adaptation pressures, dietary and cultural adjustment, and psychological stress. The nature and intensity of these challenges varied across host countries, reflecting differences in regulatory frameworks, institutional cultures, and sociocultural environments.

DISCUSSION: The findings demonstrate that migrant nurses' experiences are shaped not only by individual adjustment processes but also by structurally mediated and context-dependent factors within transnational healthcare systems.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of host-country-sensitive and stakeholder-specific strategies to promote equitable professional integration, psychological well-being, and long-term workforce sustainability.

IMPLICATION FOR NURSING: Nursing leaders and healthcare institutions should implement culturally responsive orientation, structured mentorship, and supportive workplace environments to facilitate the professional integration and well-being of migrant nurses.

IMPLICATION FOR NURSING POLICY: Coordinated transnational policies are needed to address institutional, regulatory, and professional barriers affecting migrant nurse integration.