Bringing a spouse along on a travel nurse assignment is a common consideration that impacts the decision to pursue this career path. A partner is usually welcome to travel, but this choice introduces logistical and financial complexity requiring careful planning. Successfully navigating this lifestyle depends on managing housing, understanding the financial mechanics of stipends, and ensuring the non-nursing partner can maintain a fulfilling life while constantly relocating.
Agency Policies Regarding Spouses
Travel nursing agencies and the hospitals they staff generally do not prohibit a nurse from bringing a spouse on assignment. The agency’s contractual responsibility is limited to the nurse; the spouse is considered a guest, and their inclusion does not affect the terms of the nursing contract itself.
The nurse’s recruiter should be informed early that a spouse will be traveling. In rare instances, a hospital or housing facility may require a background check or additional paperwork for long-term guests. All costs and liabilities associated with the spouse, including travel and living expenses, remain the sole responsibility of the nurse and their partner.
The Critical Role of Housing Logistics
Bringing a second person alters the housing requirements for a travel nurse assignment, moving beyond the typical single-occupancy focus. Agency-provided housing is often a small, furnished unit designed for one person, which may not be suitable for a couple’s needs. Choosing to accept the non-taxable housing stipend and securing independent housing is often the preferred route for couples.
Sourcing two-person housing requires significantly more time and effort, involving navigating short-term leases and finding fully furnished spaces. The cost of a larger, couple-friendly unit often exceeds the value of the allocated housing stipend, necessitating an increased out-of-pocket expense.
Navigating Financial and Tax Implications
The financial structure of travel nursing relies on non-taxable stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals, which are only available if the nurse maintains a “tax home” away from the assignment location. The IRS requires the nurse to incur “duplicate expenses,” meaning they must pay for a primary residence while simultaneously paying for temporary housing on assignment.
A spouse’s actions can compromise the nurse’s eligibility for these tax-free stipends, which would significantly reduce the overall take-home pay. If the couple sells their primary residence, or if the spouse does not maintain expenses at the tax home, the IRS may deem the nurse to be an “itinerant” worker. In this scenario, the stipends become taxable income, representing a substantial financial loss. Maintaining verifiable expenses, such as a mortgage, rent, or utilities, at the established tax home is paramount for a traveling couple. The increased cost of living for two people must also be budgeted for, as the stipends are calculated only for the nurse.
Supporting the Traveling Spouse’s Needs
Finding Remote Work Opportunities
The non-nursing partner often seeks employment that aligns with the transient nature of the travel nurse lifestyle, making remote work the most advantageous option. Remote work allows the spouse to maintain career continuity and contribute to the household income without needing a new job every thirteen weeks. Suitable remote positions include:
- Software development.
- Recruiting.
- Virtual assistance.
- Freelance work, such as writing or graphic design.
The gig economy also offers flexible opportunities, such as ride-sharing or delivery services, that can be started and stopped in different locations.
Licensing and Employment Restrictions
For many professions, state-specific licensing requirements present a hurdle to maintaining a traditional career while traveling. A spouse whose work requires a professional license must research the endorsement or reciprocity rules for each new state. The time and expense involved in obtaining multiple state licenses can make finding temporary, in-person employment impractical. Consequently, the partner must either transition to a remote position that does not require state-specific licensing or accept a career break.
Building Community in Temporary Locations
The constant relocation can lead to social isolation for the accompanying spouse, who lacks the built-in professional network of the nurse. The partner must be proactive in establishing routines and making connections in each new city. Engaging in local hobbies, joining fitness classes, or utilizing community-specific online groups can help foster a temporary social circle. The goal is for the spouse to create their own sense of community and purpose.
Keys to Successful Travel Nursing as a Couple
Success for a traveling couple relies on open communication, joint planning, and defined expectations for the lifestyle. Before accepting a contract, both partners should be involved in reviewing the assignment details, including the location, anticipated housing situation, and the financial budget for two people. Dividing labor, such as having the non-nurse partner manage travel and housing logistics, can help prevent nurse burnout.
Establishing shared routines in each new temporary home helps create stability amidst the constant change. Setting aside time for exploration and quality activities on the nurse’s days off ensures the relationship remains a priority. Approaching the experience as a team is the foundation for thriving in this unique career path.