How international nurses can move to the UK?
Building a Nursing Career in the UK: A Complete Guide for Overseas Nurses
For many nurses around the world, the United Kingdom offers a unique opportunity to work in one of the most recognised healthcare systems globally—the NHS. The UK is not only known for its high standards in patient care but also for its structured professional development, job security, and diverse work culture.
If you're a qualified nurse trained overseas and considering a move to the UK, this guide outlines the essential steps you need to take, from registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to securing a visa, starting work, and growing in your career.
Step One: Check Your Eligibility with the NMC
Your journey begins with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)—the UK’s professional regulatory body for nurses and midwives. You’ll need to complete their online self-assessment and eligibility application to confirm your qualifications meet UK standards.
If successful, you’ll be invited to start the Test of Competence process, which assesses your theoretical and practical nursing skills. It's important to note that you must apply for one of the five fields of nursing: adult nursing, children’s nursing, learning disabilities nursing, mental health nursing, or midwifery.
Even if your original qualification is not specific to one of these areas, you can still apply—what matters more is your relevant experience. However, switching fields after registration is not straightforward. It requires an 18-month full-time conversion course, so it's crucial to select the most appropriate field at the start.
Step Two: Meet the English Language Requirement
To ensure safe and effective communication in clinical settings, the NMC requires all overseas applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be done by passing an approved English language test—either the IELTS or the OET.
Alternatively, if your nursing programme was taught and assessed in English and included a significant amount of hands-on clinical training in English, you may be able to provide this as evidence instead. However, this exemption is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and it's always advisable to prepare for the formal tests in case your documentation is not accepted.
Step Three: Pass the Test of Competence (CBT and OSCE)
Once your NMC eligibility is confirmed and your language skills are verified, the next step is to complete the Test of Competence, which is split into two parts:
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) assesses your theoretical nursing knowledge and can be taken in your home country. After passing, you’ll have two years to complete the full registration process.
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) evaluates your practical nursing skills in a simulated clinical environment. This exam is conducted in the UK, and you'll need to sit it within 12 weeks of starting your job in the NHS.
You can begin working in a supervised role while waiting to take the OSCE. If you do not pass on the first attempt, a resit is permitted, and many trusts offer support and preparation sessions to help you succeed.
Step Four: Apply for Jobs and Secure Sponsorship
Overseas nurses can apply for NHS jobs in several ways:
Through NHS Jobs, the official online recruitment portal
Via a UK-based NHS-approved recruitment agency
Through a reputable local agency in your home country
If you apply through an agency, ensure they have a strong reputation and do not charge any recruitment fees—ethical recruitment is a priority for the NHS. Your prospective NHS trust will conduct your interview, make a job offer, and issue you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This certificate is a crucial part of your visa application and confirms the trust’s commitment to support your relocation.
Step Five: Apply for the Health and Care Visa
Once you’ve received a job offer and your CoS, you can apply for the Health and Care Visa. This visa allows overseas healthcare professionals to live and work in the UK and can be valid for up to five years.
To qualify, you must:
Hold a nursing qualification from your home country
Have a job offer from an NHS trust or registered provider
Meet the minimum salary threshold (usually £23,200 to £29,000, depending on the role and location)
Prove your English language ability
Demonstrate you can support yourself financially (unless your employer covers this on your behalf)
Your NHS employer or agency will often help you navigate the visa application process, including gathering documents and submitting forms.
Step Six: Relocate and Begin Working
Once your visa is granted, you can start preparing for your move. NHS trusts often support new international staff with travel, temporary accommodation, airport pickups, and even local orientation. Upon arrival, you’ll begin working as a pre-registered nurse and prepare for the OSCE.
You’ll have access to mentorship, shadowing opportunities, and time to revise before your exam. Once you pass the OSCE, you’ll become fully registered with the NMC and can work as a Band 5 nurse in the UK.
Professional Growth and Life in the UK
Working in the NHS opens doors for continuous development. From the outset, you’ll have access to structured training, peer support, and funded courses. The NHS also provides a £1,000 professional development fund, giving you the chance to specialise, upskill, or take on leadership roles.
Outside of work, the UK offers a rich cultural experience, world-class education, and a diverse community of international healthcare professionals. Many overseas nurses find long-term stability, career progression, and a good quality of life here.
Three Key Tips for Overseas Nurses Moving to the UK
🔹 Choose your field wisely
Apply for the nursing field that best matches your experience—changing it later takes time and money.
🔹 Prepare early for your exams
Give yourself enough time to study for the IELTS/OET and the OSCE. Passing on the first attempt can fast-track your registration.
🔹 Work with trusted recruitment partners
Whether applying directly or through an agency, make sure they are ethical, NHS-approved, and experienced in supporting overseas nurses.
Relocating to the UK as a nurse is a big step—but with the right information, preparation, and support, it can be one of the most rewarding decisions of your career. The NHS values the contributions of international nurses, and you’ll find not just a job, but a home where your skills are respected, your growth is supported, and your work truly makes a difference.
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