PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the current issues concerning a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) for nursing professionals, and to suggest policy alternatives in South Korea.
METHODS
The study was conducted through a literature review.
RESULTS
The nursing MRA was signed by the European Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Australia-New Zealand, India-Singapore, and the Caribbean Community. The United States and Japan have not concluded a nursing MRA with other countries, but they have lowered the entry barriers for foreign nurses from certain countries. In order to prepare for a nursing MRA with developed countries such as the United States, Canada and Australia, it is necessary to establish international standards for nursing and to build a verification system for the qualifications of foreign nurses. In addition, there is a need to establish an independent professional licensing authority that assumes responsibility for all the tasks regarding a nursing license.
CONCLUSION
The findings of this study can be used as basic data for the preparation of a nursing MRA, and can contribute to the establishment of policies for foreign nurses.