How to work as a nurse in Ireland

Irish hospitals and nursing homes hire many nurses from abroad. You must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).

The steps

1. Apply to NMBI for recognition. Use the "trained outside Ireland" application. NMBI checks your education and experience.
2. Pass an English test. NMBI accepts IELTS Academic and OET. Check the current minimum scores on the NMBI site.
3. Read your decision letter. NMBI may ask you to complete "compensation measures": either an adaptation and assessment period in an Irish hospital, or an aptitude test.
4. Get a job offer. Nurses usually qualify for a Critical Skills Employment Permit, which your employer can help you apply for.
5. Apply for your visa (if your nationality needs one), then complete registration with NMBI once any adaptation is done.

Good to know

• Many employers organise the adaptation period for you and pay you while you do it.
• The Critical Skills Employment Permit can lead to long-term residence later.

Watch out: Employment permits in Ireland are free for the worker to hold. An agency should not charge you to "get" a permit.

Official sites

• NMBI
• HSE: overseas nurses and midwives
• Ireland: Critical Skills Employment Permit

Rules change. Always confirm the details on the official sites linked in this guide before you pay for any exam or application.