How to work as a nurse in the UK

The UK recruits thousands of internationally educated nurses every year, mostly through NHS trusts and private hospitals. You must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) before you can work as a nurse.

The steps

1. Check you are eligible. Create an NMC Online account and complete the eligibility check. You need a nursing qualification that led to registration in your country.
2. Pass an English test. The NMC accepts IELTS Academic or OET. Check the current minimum scores on the NMC website before you book.
3. Pass Part 1 of the Test of Competence (the CBT). This is a computer-based multiple-choice exam that you can take in your own country.
4. Get a job offer from a licensed sponsor. Your employer gives you a Certificate of Sponsorship, which you need for the visa.
5. Apply for the Health and Care Worker visa. It has lower fees than most work visas, and you do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
6. Pass Part 2 (the OSCE) in the UK. This is a practical exam. Most employers book and pay for it, and give you training before it.
7. Receive your NMC PIN. You can now work as a registered nurse.

Good to know

• Many NHS employers pay for the CBT, OSCE, visa and flights. Ask what is included before you accept.
• Some contracts ask you to repay costs if you leave early. Read this part carefully.

Watch out: Since July 2025, care worker and senior care worker jobs can no longer be filled from overseas. If someone offers you a UK care worker visa from abroad, be very careful. And no one can sell you a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Official sites

• NMC: trained outside the UK
• GOV.UK: Health and Care Worker visa
• NHS Employers: international recruitment

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