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How To Become a Certified Nurse In The UK As A Nigerian Nurse – A Step By Step Guide

Becoming a certified nurse in the UK as a Nigerian nurse offers exciting career prospects but requires meeting stringent requirements. This guide provides a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of the step-by-step process in 2024.

In this Article:

Choosing a Nursing Specialty

The first step is deciding your nursing specialty:

• Adult nursing
• Mental health nursing
• Learning disabilities nursing
• Children’s nursing

Dual field degrees covering two specialties are also available. Once qualified, you can work anywhere in the UK.

Getting Qualified

To get qualified, you typically need:

• 2-3 A-Levels or equivalent qualifications like BTECs or T Levels
• GCSEs including English, Maths, Science
• Some universities need specific A-Level or equivalent subjects like Biology or Psychology

Full-time nursing degrees last 3-4 years, longer if part-time. Accelerated 2 year courses are available if you have a relevant degree. Entry requirements vary per university so check individually. Consider open days to learn more.

Funding Your Studies

In England, most nursing students access the standard student finance system, not NHS bursaries. See the  Funding Clinic  for updates.

Registering with the NMC

To work in the UK, nurses must register with the  Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) . This involves:

• Meeting language requirements
• Passing an online test
• Passing a practical exam in the UK

Meeting Language Requirements

You need to prove English language skills via:

• IELTS Academic with minimum scores of 7 in each section and 6.5 in writing
• OET with grade B in all sections and C+ in writing
• Proof of previous registration and practice for 1 year minimum where English was required and spoken

Passing the Online Test

The Computer Based Test (CBT) covers:

• Professional values
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Nursing procedures

It costs £83 and results are usually available after 48 hours.

Passing the Practical Exam

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) tests your clinical and practical skills via simulations with actors in dedicated test centres in the UK.You’ll demonstrate skills like:

• Communicating clearly with patients
• Taking observations
• Administering injections

Applying for Nursing Jobs

Once fully qualified and NMC registered, start applying for Band 5 registered nurse roles. Use job sites and contact hospitals directly.The NHS, private hospitals, GP surgeries, and more employ nurses across the UK. With experience, you can specialize further via additional training. As an NMC registered nurse, you can work flexibly via nursing agencies to control your hours and workplace.

Average Nursing Salaries

As a newly qualified Band 5 Nurse, expect approximately £28,000 annually in England, rising yearly. Salaries vary across the UK with London offering premium rates.With specialization and promotions over time, salaries can reach £80,000 or more.

Visa Requirements

As an Nigerian nurse, you’ll need a Tier 2 Work Visa valid for up to 5 years with unlimited renewals. Employers sponsor visas.To get sponsored:

• Prove qualifications
• Get NMC registration
• Pass visa interviews

Visa processing takes 8-12 weeks. Employers usually provide relocation support.

Step-By-Step Process for Nigerian Nurses

Follow this step-by-step process to become a certified nurse in the UK:

Step 1: Decide Your Nursing Specialty

Choose one of the main four fields of nursing:

• Adult nursing – physical and mental care for adults.
• Mental health nursing – supporting mental wellbeing.
• Learning disabilities nursing – helping those with learning or intellectual disabilities.
• Children’s nursing – care for those aged 0-18 years.

Consider studying a dual field degree to specialize in two fields, maximizing scope of practice.

Step 2: Check Entry Requirements

Typical requirements are:

• 2-3 A-Levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications like BTECs/T Levels
• GCSEs in English, Maths and Science
• Some universities need specific subjects like Biology

Entry requirements vary per university so check individually via UCAS.Access courses and foundation years offer alternatives if you don’t meet requirements.

Step 3: Choose a University

Research different  nursing degree courses  and universities. Consider:

• Course specialties and modules
• Teaching reputation
• Placement opportunities
• Costs – check funding availability

Shortlist your top five choices. Attend open days to help decide.

Step 4: Submit UCAS Application

Apply for your nursing degree via the  UCAS system . The application involves:

• Personal details
• Qualifications
• Personal statement

The application costs £26.50 for up to five course choices.

Step 5: Fund Your Studies

As an international student, expect annual tuition fees of £10,000-£15,000.Funding options include:

• Self-funding
• Student loans from Nigerian banks
• Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
• University scholarships and bursaries

See the  British Council  for more funding details.

Step 6: Complete Your Nursing Degree

Typical course elements are:Theoretical Study

• Anatomy and physiology
• Healthcare management
• Social policy
• Public health
• Nursing theory and process

Practical PlacementsPlacements allow developing practical nursing skills via:

• Observing experienced nurses
• Providing supervised patient care

AssessmentsAssessments test both theoretical and practical learning via:

• Written exams
• Coursework essays
• Practical observations
• Portfolios and presentations

Expect around 50% theory and 50% supervised practice.

Step 7: Apply for NMC Registration

To work as a nurse in the UK, you must register with the  Nursing and Midwifery Council . Follow their registration process by:

1. Creating an online accountProvide:

• Proof of identity
• Contact and qualification details

2. Proving your English language abilities

Submit evidence of English skills via:

• IELTS/OET certificates
• Proof of previous registration where English was required

3. Paying the application feeThe application costs £140 paid via online payment.

4. Submitting your supporting documentsProvide documents showing:

• Nursing education and training
• Previous registrations
• Good physical and mental health
• Good character e.g. police clearance

5. Passing your online test

The CBT exam covers nursing knowledge, values and skills.6. Passing your practical examThe OSCE assesses your hands-on nursing skills and judgement via simulations.

Step 8: Search for Nursing Jobs

Once qualified and NMC registered, start applying for registered nurse roles across the UK. Use job websites like  NHS Jobs ,  Nurses.co.uk  and  Indeed  to find the latest vacancies.

You can work flexibly via nursing agencies like  Pulse  and  Blue Arrow .Contact hospitals directly about vacancies too.Look for band 5 registered nurse roles as typical entry level jobs.

Step 9: Prepare Visa Application

As a non-EU national, you’ll need a work visa to take up nursing jobs in the UK.The main visa route is the  Skilled Worker Visa  with:

• £1,270 application fee
• £624 annual healthcare surcharge

To get sponsored for a visa:

1. Get a job offer

Employers must be Home Office approved sponsors able to provide certificates of sponsorship.

2. Prove competency

Submit qualifications, registrations and references when applying.

3. Pass visa interviews

Be prepared to prove credentials, language abilities and commitment to role. Processing takes 8-12 weeks so apply well in advance of job start dates.

Step 10: Relocate to the UK

Once your visa is approved, prepare for your move to the UK.

• Book flights – employers often reimburse costs
• Arrange accommodation – short term options include hotels and AirBnB
• Ship essential belongings
• Set up UK bank accounts
• Apply for National Insurance and proof of right to work

Many employers also offer relocation support.

Opportunities for Nigerian Nurses in the UK

The UK offers Nigerian nurses a wealth of opportunities.

1. Career Progression

The UK provides clear nursing career pathways allowing specializing and progressing into advanced roles.Typical pathways include:

• Specialist nurse – 1-2 years of experience allows specializing in areas like A&E, theatre or paediatrics
• Advanced nurse – around 3-5 years experience enables advancing into leadership roles
• Consultant nurse – 5-7 years experience allows becoming clinical experts and consultants
• Matrons and managers – significant experience enables managing whole departments and facilities

2. Competitive Salaries

The UK offers far higher nursing pay than Nigeria.Newly qualified nurses earn approximately:

• Nigeria – ₦50,000 (£87) per month
• UK – £28,000 (£2,300) per month

With allowances, overtime and experience, nurses earn:

• Nigeria – ₦150,000 (£260) per month
• UK – £35,000+ (£2,900) per month

Enhanced rates apply for high demand specialties like A&E and theatre.

3. World-Class Training

The UK provides world-leading nurse training honing clinical expertise plus options to specialize.Resources like medical simulators, online libraries and research networks support learning. UK experience leads to international recognition of capabilities and qualifications.

4. Flexible Working

UK nurses can work flexibly to improve work-life balance. Options include:

• Part time – around 60% of nurses work 30-35 hours per week
• Rotational – working a proportion of nights/weekends
• Job sharing – splitting shifts between two nurses
• Agency work – choosing locations and shifts

Most employers actively support flexible working for retention.

5. Generous Benefits

As NHS employees, nurses get significant benefits including:

• 27-33 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Enhanced sick pay and maternity/paternity leave
• Discounted shopping, travel and health insurance
• Highly subsidized mortgage schemes
• Excellent pension contributions

Benefits improve yearly in most NHS trusts.

6. Clear Career Framework

The NHS provides a structured  career framework for nursing. This supports planning and progressing through defined bands:

Band 5 – newly qualified nurse

Band 6 – specialist or senior staff nurse

Band 7 – ward managers and clinical team leaders

Band 8a-c – senior managers and matrons

Band 9 – directors of nursingHigher bands bring substantially increased pay, responsibilities and benefits.

So if becoming a British nurse is your goal, follow this guide to make the process straightforward in 2024. With dedication and the right support, your nursing career can thrive as you embrace this new chapter.

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• How to Migrate from Nigeria to Scotland as a Registered Nurse in 2024 : This article outlines the eligibility criteria and the nursing registration process for Nigerian nurses who want to work in Scotland, including the English language test, the application form, and the fees.
• Passing the CBT and OSCE for NMC Registration as a Nurse in the UK – Here’s All You Need to Know : This article covers the two tests that foreign nurses need to pass to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK, which are the Computer Based Test (CBT) and the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

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How to Immigrate to the UK as a Nurse in 10 Easy Steps

Last updated on February 18th, 2023

If you want to “Japa” or immigrate to the UK as a nurse from Nigeria, then you should take this article seriously. The UK has a reputation for being welcoming to Nigerians and offers great opportunities for nurses looking to expand their skills and career.

In recent years, the number of Nigerian nurses moving to the UK has increased significantly. This trend is expected to continue over the next decade.

Nursing is a rewarding career choice, especially if you want to Japa or relocate abroad to make money. There are a number of reasons why you ought to think about moving to the UK to work as a nurse. Uk Hospitals are well-equipped with modern medical facilities. The country also offers career nurses a wide range of opportunities, especially at the National Health Service (NHS).

Besides, there are plenty of jobs available for nurses. Nurses are needed everywhere in the UK, especially in hospitals, to care for patients. Let’s have a look at how to get started.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Salary Package for Nigerian nurses in the UK
• 1.2.1 #1. Get an international passport
• 1.2.2 #2. Sit for IELTS/OET
• 1.2.3 #3. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC UK)
• 1.2.4 #4. Verify your nursing qualifications with the NMCN
• 1.2.5 #5. Book your CBT with Pearson VUE
• 1.2.6 #6. Fill out the final form by NMC UK
• 1.2.7 #7. Pay the NMC registration fee
• 1.2.8 #8. Wait for a decision to be made by NMCN
• 1.2.9 #9. Job Hunt
• 1.2.10 #10. Accept an offer letter for a job
• 1.2.11 #11. Wait for a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
• 1.2.12 #12. Tier 2 Visa Application
• 1.2.13 #13. Arrive in the U.k. and take your OSCE exam
• 1.3 UK Processing time for Nigerian Nurses
• 1.4 International nurses band 5 to Uk
• 1.5 Annual Leave and Holidays in the Uk for Nigerian Nurses
• 1.6.1.1 Please share this!

Why do Nigerian Nurses immigrate to the UK to practice nursing?

Nigerian nurses are some of the most highly sought-after healthcare professionals in the world . And it’s no wonder why – they are highly trained and skilled, and their compassion and dedication to their patients are second to none.

So it’s no surprise that many Nigerian nurses choose to immigrate to the UK to practice nursing. There are many reasons why they choose to do so, but the main one is because they know they will be able to provide a higher standard of care for their patients in the UK.

They also know that they will be able to earn a good salary and have a better standard of living in the UK. And last but not least, they know that they will be welcomed with open arms by their fellow healthcare professionals in the UK.

Salary Package for Nigerian nurses in the UK

With each banding, there are pay gradations. That means if you work as a Nigerian nurse in the UK, promotions are guaranteed to come your way . However, a comprehensive guide to the UK nurse pay scale would still require some research on your part.

In general, starting pay for a band 5 nurse is £24,907 per year. Nurses with more than 7 years of experience can earn up to £37,890 in band 6 posts, which start at £31,365. For those with more than 7 years of experience, Band 7 posts increase to £44,503 from the starting salary of £38,890. Due to the additional responsibilities and lengthy hours, band 8 occupations start at £45,753 and can go up to £87,754 annually. Band 9 jobs have starting salaries of £91,004 and can pay up to £100,000 annually .

In addition, If you would like to find out about Doctor’s Salaries and the immigration process to the UK, check out our article on the ultimate guide to travel or Japa to the UK as a Medical Doctor here !

Japa: 10 Steps to Immigrate to the UK as a nurse from Nigeria

Nurses from Nigeria are in high demand in the UK. Here are 10 steps to make your journey a success:

• Get an international passport.
• Sit for IELTS/OET.
• Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC UK).
• Verify your nursing qualifications with the NMCN.
• Book your CBT with Pearson VUE.
• Fill out the final form by NMC UK.
• Pay the NMC registration fee.
• Wait for a decision to be made by NMCN
• Job Hunting.
• Accept an offer letter for a job
• Wait for a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS).
• Tier 2 Visa Application.
• Arrive in the U.k. and take your OSCE exam.

#1. Get an international passport

The first step is to apply for an international passport if you don’t have one. You’ll need it to register for IELTS. Depending on the situation at the Immigration office, it could take anything from 24 hours to several weeks or even months.

#2. Sit for IELTS/OET

Second, you will need to write and pass IELTS/OET before beginning the procedure because it is thought to be the most difficult of all. The IELTS (about N83,000): Listening: 7.0, Writing: 6.5, Reading: 7.0, Speaking: 7.0, and Overall: 7.0. Currently, the Occupation English Test (OET) costs around N150,000: Reading – B, Writing – C+, Listening – B, and Speaking – B is the minimum requirements.

#3. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC UK)

After passing your proficiency exams (IELTS/OET), you must create an account on the NMC’s official website . At some time, a registration fee of £140 (about N51,800) will be required. Verification of your NMCN license and university/school of nursing outcomes are two important documents that will be required.

#4. Verify your nursing qualifications with the NMCN

You will need to apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to have your nursing qualification certificate and license verified. This will cost roughly N17,500.

Notification/Certificate, letter requesting verification and good standing, valid license, CRM via NMC portal, and birth certificate are all required documents.

#5. Book your CBT with Pearson VUE

Once your eligibility has been determined and NMC has recommended you to take the Computer-Based Test (CBT), you must register for the test with Pearson VUE at a cost of £90. (about N33,300).

A voucher for this can be purchased at https://www.mindhub.co.uk/. Within 24-48 hours, you will receive a promo code that you can enter when you reach the payment stage of your CBT booking on the Pearson Vue site.

#6. Fill out the final form by NMC UK

After passing the CBT, you would log in to your NMC site and upload your personal documents, such as your nursing certificate, IELTS/OET results, and the name and contact information of your medical regulator (that is a medical doctor of your choice). Keep track of your progress from time to time.

#7. Pay the NMC registration fee

You would pay the NMC registration fee of £153 here (67,000). This was supposed to be paid after passing the OSCE in the United Kingdom; however, it is currently paid while in Nigeria. Following payment, NMC will send an email to your medical doctor/regulator for your health declaration, so please notify your doctor ahead of time.

NMC will also request your good standing from NMCN, and once received, it will be promptly updated on your portal. It is critical to check your portal on a regular basis in order to track your progress.

#8. Wait for a decision to be made by NMCN

Wait for NMCN to complete your good standing (you do not need to pay again for this because the previous payment covers it).

#9. Job Hunt

You can begin seeking work at any time, but it is best to begin once you have completed the CBT and IELTS/OET. For positions in National Health Service (NHS) hospitals, you can use an agent or apply directly on NHS.jobs , tracjobs, and indeed.co.uk , but for care homes, go to http://www.carehome.co.uk .

The benefits of a care home versus the NHS differ; which one you choose depends on what you want; try researching both before making a decision. Care homes are generally thought to pay more, although NHS hospitals are better for career progression. You can also write emails to select trusts to express your interest in working for them as a Nurse.

#10. Accept an offer letter for a job

Sign the offer letter and deliver your documents to the trust once you’ve received an offer you’re happy with.

Even if you have more than one offer, do not sign more than one. When applying directly, keep in mind that you may have to fund your visa and ticket yourself while receiving a refund once you get in the UK (this isn’t always the case).

Agents, on the other hand, pay for this in advance. Just make sure you thoroughly study your offer letter to understand what the trust is giving.

#11. Wait for a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)

A COS is required to prove that you have a sponsor. This eliminates the necessity for a bank statement when applying for a visa. Your employer will demand certain documents from you in order for you to apply for a COS, such as a police clearance certificate, TB certificate, and so on. If you have a husband and/or children, notify your employer so that your COS will cover your dependents (spouse and children).

#12. Tier 2 Visa Application

You can book your tier 2 visa biometric appointment after receiving your COS. You can get information to aid you with your process online. The decision takes three weeks to be made public. TLS centers can be found in Lagos and Abuja.

#13. Arrive in the U.k. and take your OSCE exam

After you arrive in the UK as a nurse, your company will schedule OSCE and OSCE training classes for you. After completing the OSCE, you will be fully qualified to practice nursing in the UK as a band 5 nurse. After passing this, you will be given your pin (license) to practice with.

Also Read : Best Passport for International Travel in Nigeria

UK Processing time for Nigerian Nurses

The United Kingdom has been known for its quick processing times for visas for foreign nurses, but what about Nigerian nurses? While the UK is currently processing Nigerian nurses’ visas in a timely manner, there have been reports of long wait times and delays.

Nigerian nurses are highly sought after by NHS hospitals throughout the UK because of their excellent nursing skills and ability to speak English.

However, due to the high demand and short supply of Nigerian nurses, many healthcare facilities have had to turn to foreign workers in order to meet the demands of patient care.

This has led to long wait times for Nigerian nurses applying for a visa to work in the UK. In some cases, it can take up to six months for a Nigerian nurse’s visa application to be processed .

International nurses band 5 to Uk

A banding system is used in the United Kingdom. A Band 5 nurse is an entry-level position. This is where some international nurses begin their careers. They are often expected to begin in a hospital setting and then progress within your ward. A Band 6 is a Nursing expert or senior nurse who may be in command on occasion, whereas a Band 7 is an advanced nurse or “sister” who may be in charge of every shift they work.

A modern matron or chief nurse is a band 8 nurse. Some crucial managerial skills are required here. A band 9 nurse is at the top of the food chain. They are senior NHS management personnel.

Must Read : Countries You Can Migrate to If You’re Tired of Nigeria

Annual Leave and Holidays in the Uk for Nigerian Nurses

Nigerian nurses in the UK are entitled to 27 days of annual leave each year, plus eight general/public holidays. After ten years, this increases to 33 days.

Annual leave would be taken with your employer’s permission. In the United Kingdom, there is no legal right to select when to take your yearly leave as a nurse; your employer must balance your freedom to leave against the demands of the service and maintain sufficient staffing levels.

Working Hours for Nigerian Nurses in the UK

A full-time UK nurse works 37.5 hours per week, excluding meal breaks. 60% of nurses and midwives work 12-hour shifts, often from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., allowing the NHS to provide patients with 24-hour care.

In conclusion, nurse travel to the UK can be a rewarding experience. It is important to research the destination carefully, as there are numerous visas and other requirements that must be met in order to enter the country. With a bit of planning and enough patience, nurse travelers can enjoy a fabulous trip to one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Emmanuel Peter is the founder of Naijajapa.com. Experience gained in the Study abroad and Immigration industry since 2017. A graduate of International Relations from ABU Zaria.

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Am plead to have found this site ,I will loved to be notified whenever there’s a new post, thanks.

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God bless you Sir! Honestly, I love the way you explained it to a better understanding.

I will follow this step and I pray God will perfect it

God bless you too. I wish you good luck!

Such a great and timely article.

You are welcome!

Keep up Emma, God will see you thru for this wonderful article.

Thanks! You are welcome…

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International Nurse recruitment

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Our International Nurse Recruitment programme

In 2022 the Trust launched our International Nurse recruitment programme. So far since November 2022 we have welcomed 42 experienced mental Health and General Health Nurses from overseas.

Our program has been developed to provide comprehensive assistance to international nurses as they transition to the UK and work towards becoming a registered mental health nurse or registered general health nurse.

To accomplish this, we are committed to helping to successfully complete the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) within the first 12 weeks of arrival.

Our skilled clinical educators are readily available to provide guidance and training.

The significance of our international recruitment program cannot be overstated – it plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal staffing levels and upholding exceptional standards of care across our adult inpatient services, forensic services and offender health.

Please read our  International Nurse pastoral guide  providing information for new nurses.

Relocation package

Every international nurse who becomes a part of our team will benefit from an extensive relocation package, which includes:

• Reimbursement of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Occupational English Test (OET) fees.
• Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registration fees
• Coverage of Certificate of Sponsorship and Visa expenses
• Arrangements for a flight to the UK and transfer services
• OSCE exam expenses
• Comprehensive OSCE training
• Accommodation whilst studying and preparing for the OSCE exam
• A dedicated support team that is fully committed to assisting you throughout your relocation process to the UK

International Nurse Recruitment programme support

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust ensures each nurse receives a comprehensive employment strategy along with continuous pastoral care. Our dedicated team offers assistance encompassing cultural, emotional, and professional guidance.

We also provide practical assistance, such as aiding in the process of opening UK bank accounts, registering with GP practices and dentists, and familiarising with the local area – including information about supermarkets, transportation options, schools, places of worship, recreational facilities, and more.

The Trust also provides an extensive array of support services, which includes Staff Wellbeing, Staff Counselling, and Occupational Health resources.

Included in our assistance for new International Nurses are the following provisions:

• Comprehensive support throughout intensive OSCE training
• A substantial and considerate relocation package
• Dedicated pastoral support
• Ward-based buddy support
• Regular monthly supervision sessions with your line manager

Registration process for our International Nurse recruitment programme

To apply to work for Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, you will need to apply via one of the recruitment agencies we use links provided below. The recruitment agency will guide you through the process and advise you on compliance documents and information required.

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Before submitting your application, it's advisable to have successfully passed the IELTS or OET to help you speed up the process.

If your application meets the criteria, you will proceed to the next step which is a virtual interview - conducted via MS Teams. Following the completion of mandatory checks and upon receipt of confirmation from the NMC, we will proceed to sponsor and issue a visa. Once this is done, we will arrange flights to the United Kingdom, as well as provide transfers and accommodation until the OSCE exam has successfully completed.

Nurses will undertake their OSCEs within a timeframe of 8 weeks. Upon successfully passing the OSCE, nurses will be eligible for registration with the NMC.

OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)

The OSCE is designed to assess a nurse's practical skills in an impartial and clear-cut manner. This examination evaluates the candidate's clinical proficiency and their capacity to adhere to the standards set by the NMC.

For further information regarding the OSCE, please refer to the details available on the NMC website .

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International nurse recruitment programme

We know that starting a career can be tough, even more so if it involves moving to another country. This is why our nursing development and education team have launched a recruitment scheme to support nurses moving to the UK.  

The programme

This programme supports international nurses while they take their objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE). All international nurses must have an OSCE in order to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and work in the UK. You will be interviewed and, subject to an offer for a position with the Trust, enter the programme to prepare you for the OSCE. 

The process

A key aim of this programme is to maintain the high standards of nursing at Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals. For these standards to be maintained, there are certain things international nurses must have.

• Before coming to the UK, you will need to pass the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• When you've passed this, you can start the first part of the NMC registration process - a computer-based test of your theoretical and practical knowledge
• After this, you can apply to the NMC, travel to the UK and take your OSCEs

To learn more about the process, what you can expect, and how to apply, take a look at this timeline .

What we provide

As well as helping you pass your OSCEs, the nursing development and education team will show you what it's like to work as a nurse in the UK.

When you arrive,  you will get a starter pack to help you settle. This includes:

• accommodation
• meal vouchers 

See more benefits of working for us

New trainees go through five weeks of intense, tailor-made tuition in our dedicated training centre at Harefield.

To date, we have recruited over 100 nurses through this programme, who now work across our hospitals. 

Find out more about the programme  (PDF, 2.1MB). 

Fraud and staff recruitment outside the UK

We are aware that a number of fraudulent job offers have been made recently, mainly to nurses and medical professionals in the Philippines, but also in some other overseas recruitment areas. We are working hard to resolve this matter but if for any reason you have concerns about the legitimacy of a job advertisement or job offer, please contact the nurse recruitment department on +44 (0)207352 8121.

Further information

About the departments and laboratories.

Our International nurses work across different departments and laboratories at both Royal Brompton and Harefield sites. Here you can find out more about each unit and how you will gain experience in each of these areas:

• Transplant unit
• Respiratory unit
• Critical care unit
• Theatres and cath labs

Specialised services

Both Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals provide high quality patient care for adults and children. Find out more about our adult heart services and our children's departments and how you can gain experience in both areas: 

• Adult heart services
• Children's services

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Nursing workforce – International recruitment

The NHS is the largest single employer in the UK, and we are proud that our workforce is extremely diverse – just like our patients. The NHS has always benefited from overseas recruitment and from nurses coming from other countries to live and work in England. Recruitment from outside of the UK continues to feature as an important part of the workforce supply strategy of NHS organisations, in line with the NHS People Plan . The NHS Long Term Plan set out the ambitions for the NHS over the next 10 years, identifying ethical international recruitment as a workforce priority.

International recruitment will be a vital component of support for ongoing management of COVID-19 in areas across England, for other service pressures, and for recovery for the NHS from the pandemic.

The 2021/2022 NHS priorities and operational planning guidance sets out the steps we need to take to sustainably increase the size of our workforce in line with the measures set out in the NHS Long Term Plan. To ensure that the NHS is able to grow for the future, health systems are asked to include the international recruitment of nursing staff in their plans for the next year.

If you’re an international nurse interested in joining the NHS, you can find more information on the Health Careers website including information on the application process .

The nursing international recruitment programme

International recruitment support offer for nhs trusts, refugee nurse support pilot programme.

The nursing international recruitment programme is delivering an ethical and sustainable recruitment model that supports NHS organisations to increase and develop their international recruitment plans.

The safe arrival, induction and embedding of new people into the NHS workforce is our number one priority for international recruitment. We have put in place a package of financial support for trusts to increase the number of international recruits they have, and as a priority to provide safe onboarding, induction and pastoral support for these recruits.

Our programme activity focuses on:

• Supporting NHS trusts with international recruitment, including developing the NHS as the ‘destination of choice’ for internationally trained nurses.
• Supporting new, innovative and collaborative approaches to trust/system-led international recruitment, to reduce duplication and competition.
• Ensuring all international recruitment the NHS conducts is ‘nurse centred’ and includes effective induction, pastoral and professional support.
• Supporting trusts to access the international market for nurses.

We are working with a number of partner organisations to deliver this programme of work and promote the NHS as an employer of choice for international nurses.

There are strict ethical standards for international recruitment for NHS trusts – these are especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on health and care services and workforce globally.

We are working with the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), and NHS Employers and other national bodies to support collaborative, effective and ethical international recruitment .

The DHSC has published a Code of practice for the international recruitment of health and social care personnel in England . The code of practice implements the World Health Organisation (WHO) global code of practice and ensures the fundamental principles of transparency, fairness and promotion of health systems sustainability are fully embedded in all international recruitment activity undertaken in the UK.

Some new potential supply nations are also emerging, and we will be working to understand which these may be, and to raise the profile of opportunities we can offer for nurses in the NHS.

The professional regulatory bodies are also playing an important role in enabling the safe and sustainable recruitment and employment of trained overseas professionals in the UK.

We continue to support trusts to enable international recruitment and to ensure our international nurses are really well supported. This support includes:

• A range of financial support to trusts for nursing international recruitment, in addition to midwifery international recruitment in 2021/22.
• A Direct Support Programme working with cohorts of trusts to support effective international recruitment strategies, collaborative international recruitment plans, pastoral and professional best practice and implementation support.
• An International Recruitment Masterclass webinar series providing guidance on collaborative recruitment and improving pastoral care.
• Sharing learning and best practice to ensure consistent, high-quality offers and interventions. For more information please visit the International Recruitment NHS Futures Hub (this platform requires you to register).
• An online community for international recruitment leads to allow easier sharing of ideas and discussion. Find out more on the International Recruitment NHS Futures hub .
• The launch (in March 2022) of the NHS Pastoral Care Quality Award allowing trusts to apply for a quality award based on their international recruitment practices.
• A core set of marketing materials are available for trusts to use in their international recruitment activity. The materials produce a high quality summary of the NHS’ offer to international nurses and give practical advice on how nurses can apply. To download the materials please speak to your trust communications team or international recruitment lead about accessing the Campaign Resource Centre .
• Research and resources to address key international recruitment drivers impacting trusts.
• A small grants scheme , offering diaspora groups the opportunity to apply for funding to strengthen their pastoral support offer for international nurses in the UK.
• 250 places on the Professional Nurse Advocate Scheme for international nurses across England.
• Working with the Queen’s Nursing Institute to support six pilots across England in the direct recruitment of international nurses into community services.
• The Department of Health and Social Care is developing new government-to-government agreements and working with agencies to facilitate recruitment of nurses from a broader range of countries, in line with ethical recruitment practice.

This programme, which is being delivered in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Care, Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), RefuAid and Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), supports refugees who are qualified as nurses in their home country to resume their nursing careers in the NHS.

Initially the programme was developed to support refugee nurses already living in the UK and it has now been extended to also support refugee nurses living elsewhere who want to come to the UK to rebuild their lives and become nurses in the NHS in England.

The programme offers bespoke training designed by LJMU to help participants prepare to return to nursing and work in the NHS. Participants are supported to secure NHS employment, initially in healthcare support worker roles, which they take up following the training and while they complete the process to become registered nurses in England.

RefuAid and TBB also offer enhanced pastoral care and, through TBB’s work with Reset, this offer includes local support to help participants and their families integrate and thrive in their new communities.

So far, three cohorts have completed the training. Participants in the first two cohorts were refugee nurses who were already living in the UK and the majority have now started, or are soon to start, working in NHS trusts in the North West of England. We’re continuing to support the others into NHS employment.

The third cohort was made up of refugee nurses who were living in Jordan and Lebanon. They arrived in the UK in September 2021 and, following completion of the training programme, are all now working in NHS trusts across England. A fourth cohort is arriving in the UK in January 2022 and will spend four weeks in Liverpool prior to joining their new trusts in February, and recruitment has started to appoint a further cohort to arrive in the UK in March and take up vacant posts across England from the end of April 2022.

We are working with RefuAid, TBB and NHS organisations to identify nurses and potential employers for further cohorts.

Read more about the programme in the following articles:

• LJMU pioneers nursing ‘transition’ course for refugees (LJMU)
• Minister for Health ‘humbled’ by resilience of LJMU nurses (LJMU)
• Empowering refugee nurses (Royal College of Nursing).
• International recruitment marketing materials
• NHS Employers information for international nurses during COVID-19
• Nuffield Trust: Overseas nurse recruitment and the NHS
• NHS Employers IR toolkit (includes a complete list of all international nursing associations)
• Code of Practice for International Recruitment
• International recruitment FutureNHS collaboration platform
• NHS Long Term Plan – International recruitment

How to Apply and Get a Nursing Job in the UK From Nigeria

It’s no news that nursing jobs are hot cakes in the UK. Due to the global health crisis caused by the pandemic, there has been an increased demand for healthcare workers, especially nurses across the globe. This is more critical in the UK. Despite having one of the best and most progressive healthcare systems in the world, the UK has a lean nursing workforce. That’s why it’s easy for Nigerian nurses to get high-paying jobs abroad. 

Table of Contents

If you want to work as a nurse in the UK, but don’t know how to proceed, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will share how you can get a high-paying nursing job in the UK from Nigeria.  

Don’t go anywhere. Keep reading. 

IQ test: what is your IQ score?

READ: How to Get a Nursing Job in the UAE

Guidelines on How to Apply and Get a Nursing Job in the UK from Nigeria

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your dream nursing job in the UK.  

1. Get Your International Passport

The first step is to apply for an international passport from the Nigerian Immigration Service . This is part of the requirements you will need to register for IELTS. As a certified nurse travelling to start a nursing job in the UK, what you need is a standard passport or ePassport. Your international passport will be ready within a week or even months, depending on the protocols in the immigration office.

READ: How to Get an International Passport in Nigeria

2. Write Your IELTS/OET Exam

We bet you heard about the famous IELTS test. If you want to get a nursing job in the UK, you must write and pass your IELTS exam. It’s a non-negotiable. You will be required to submit it during your NMC registration and visa application. 

IELTS means International English Language Testing System. It’s an exam that shows proof of your English language proficiency. The exam comes in four parts; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You can write either the paper-based or computer-based exam at an accredited test centre. You’ll pay N75,000 – N80,000 to register for the exam.

According to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), the minimum IELTS passmark that qualifies you to apply for a nursing job in the UK is an overall score of 7; at least 6.5 in writing and 7 in other parts.

The result of your IELTS test will be released 14 days after the examination. Make sure you prepare adequately for the examination. Don’t assume it’s basic English you already know. It takes a lot more than that to ace your IELTS exam. You can start warming up for the exam by reading one of our reviewed IELTS prep books or our proprietary text on how to score a Band 9 in the IELTS.

An alternative to IELTS is the OET. The Occupational English Test (OET) is also divided into reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The registration fee for OET is approximately N150,000. The minimum required score for each part is B, but you can scale with a credit (C) in writing.  

READ: IELTS vs OET: Which Should Nursing Professionals in Nigeria Take?

3. Get Verified by the Nursing Midwifery Council (NMC), UK 

To fully qualify to work as a nurse in the UK or get a nursing job in the Uk from Nigeria, the Nursing Midwifery Council (NMC), UK needs to verify your nursing qualification certificate and license. This is in keeping with their aim of ensuring quality healthcare practices in the UK. All you need to do is open an account on the NMC online portal, pay the verification fee of N17,500 and submit the required documents. The documents required are your nursing certificate, license, birth certificate, and a letter requesting verification and good standing. Make sure that all your documents, especially your license are up to date. The verification could take weeks or months. 

READ: How to Verify and Authenticate Your Certificate with Nursing and Midwifery Council Nigeria (NMCN) – Requirements, Process and Fees

4. Write Your CBT Competence Test

Once you’ve been verified by the NMC, you will be asked to write a computer-based test. The purpose of this test is to assess your competence theoretical knowledge of standard nursing practices.

The test contains 115 MCQ questions that cover all major areas of nursing including; general (adult) nursing, children’s nursing, midwifery, mental health nursing and learning disabilities nursing.

It will also cover professional values in nursing, communication, decision-making and leadership. You can read the test guidelines to prepare yourself.  

You can register for the CBT exam through Pearson VUE for £85. Afterward, you can write the exam in your home country. You only have a maximum of three attempts to write and pass the exam. So, make sure you are well-prepared to ace the test. The result comes out within 48 hours/ It is valid for two years. 

READ: Everything You Need to Know About NMC’s CBT Exam

5. Write the OSCE Test

The CBT competence test comes in two parts. We’ve already discussed the first part above. After writing the first part, you’ll have to write the second part, which is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). You can only write this test after successfully passing the first CBT exam. The registration fee is £794. Unlike the first CBT exam, you can only write this one at a designated centre in the UK. The centres for the test are the University of Northampton, Oxford Brookes University, Northumbria University, and Ulster University.

Most nurses usually save this for last because of the distance. Seeing that you live in Nigeria, you can get a six-month visa to write the OSCE test in the UK. Or better still, secure a nursing job in the UK first, and then get your employer to sponsor you to write the test.

This sponsorship is only for the exam training and registration fee. It doesn’t cover your cost to travel to the UK for the exam. However, your employer could be kind enough to provide a temporary place you can stay for 3-6 months. 

When you pass the exam, you will be qualified as a band 5 nurse. Your employer will issue you a certificate of sponsorship which you can use to complete your NMC, UK registration. If you fail the exam, you’ll pay a resit fee of £397 and rewrite the exam. You can only rewrite the exam three times, and you have to wait 10 days between each resit. If you fail again on the third attempt, you must start a new application.

READ: Practical Tips on How to Pass Your OSCE Exam

6. Register with the Nursing Midwifery Council (NMC), UK 

After passing the CBT competence test, pay the NMC registration fee of £153 and upload the required documents to your NMC portal. The documents include; your nursing certificate, IELTS/OET results, police clearance certificate, and name and details of your medical regulator (you can use any medical doctor of your choice). 

NMC will send a letter to the medical doctor for your health declaration. So, inform your doctor beforehand. They will also ask for your letter of good standing from NMC, Nigeria. Once they get a response, it will be updated on your application portal. Always check your portal from time to time to track your progress.  

7. Find a Nursing Job

After completing the steps above, start searching for a nursing job. You can get a nursing job in the UK from Nigeria by exploring job sites like:

• nurses.co.uk, 
• jobs.nhs.uk, 
• healthjobsuk.com, and 
• apps.trac.jobs.

Look out for band 5 nursing jobs. Read the eligibility criteria and make sure you are the right fit.

8. Update Your CV

Don’t forget to update your CV and make sure it aligns with the type of nursing job you are applying for. 

A well-written and structured LinkedIn profile will help you here. Many recruiters check the Linkedln profile of their prospective hires before making a hiring decision. A great LinkedIn profile will also make a great CV possible. If you need help with giving you a befitting Linkedln profile, talk to us. It will cost you N15,000 or $30. 

Here’s what you will get from our LinkedIn service. We will optimize:

• Headline & Summary
• Certifications & awards
• Professional Experience
• Targeted hashtags and keywords
• Skills and Endorsements
• Cover photo

Simply chat with us by clicking here to get started.

If your application is successful, you will be scheduled for a virtual job interview via Zoom, Google Teams, or Skype. Ace the interview and await your offer letter. This could take a few days. The offer letter will clearly state your salary and entry band. Some employers consider your years of experience in Nigeria before deciding how much to pay you. 

Offer letters often come with a relocation package. Your employer may decide to cover any or all of these; flight fees, visa fees, medical screening fees, IELTS/OET, CBT exam fees, COS fees, accommodation, and OSCE fees.

Some employers will allow you to pay for them and reimburse you when you arrive in the UK. Others could decide to pay for only your Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) while you cover the rest of the bill. It all depends on the organisation. So, make sure you ask questions and confirm before accepting the job offer.

9. Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)

Once you accept the job offer, your employer will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS). This document serves as your proof of funds to apply for a visa. To get a COS from your employer, submit your police clearance certificate and medical screening result (particularly TB test) to your employer. If you are married or have a child, make sure your employer includes them in the COS. The COS clearly states your resumption date, which could be between 1-6 weeks.

READ: How to Show Proof of Funds for F1 Visa

10. Apply for Visa

We will recommend you apply for a health and care worker visa. This visa allow you to stay in the UK for six years, after which you can apply for permanent residency. There are other criteria you have to meet before you can get the indefinite leave to remain (ILR), but that’s a topic for another day. Your visa will be approved within three weeks. Now, you can go shopping and get ready to japa!

READ: How to Apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa

Now, you know how to get a nursing job in the UK from Nigeria. This may seem like a tedious process, but remember, nothing good comes easy. It’s not as hard as it looks. If you follow the steps we’ve outlined meticulously, you’ll have your dream job in no time. If you need further guidance, you can schedule a call with us today.

Want to know what it takes to get a job as a doctor in the UK? Read this article: How to Apply to Work as a Doctor in the UK from Nigeria

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• You are here: Global nursing

Concern over numbers of nurses joining UK register from off-limits countries

19 November, 2021 By Graham Clews

Source:  Ingimage

Calls have been made for an investigation into nurses joining the UK nursing and midwifery register from countries on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ‘red list’ where active recruitment should not be used.

More than 1,500 nurses have joined the UK nursing register in six months from the red list, figures show.

“I know the UK takes its ethical recruiting framework seriously, but the numbers we are seeing merit further investigation for people to be reassured" Howard Catton

Latest data released this week by the Nursing and Midwifery Council revealed that in the six months to September 2021, 1,334 nurses joined the register from Nigeria, and 336 joined from Ghana. Both countries are on the WHO’s Health Workforce Support and Safeguard List.

Chief executive of the International Council of Nurses, Howard Catton, said the figures “merit further investigation”.

“When we see a figure of 1,334 nurses joining the register in six months from Nigeria, this flashes red to me,” he told Nursing Times.

In February the government updated its code of practice for international recruitment, aligning itself with WHO advice on ethical international recruitment.

Related articles 

• ‘Worrying signs’ register growth will not meet demands, warns NMC
• Overseas recruitment ‘remains key’ to meeting 50,000 nurse target
• Ministers cut restrictions on overseas nurse recruitment to ‘help meet target’

It widened the global market from which the UK can ethically recruit, because the WHO’s ‘red list’ of 47 countries where healthcare staff could not be actively recruited, replaced the previous UK list of 152 countries.

The government said at the time that the new code would help meet its target of delivering 50,000 nurses by 2024. The code says that health and social care worker recruitment from overseas should be “undertaken in an ethical, managed and mutually beneficial way and in line with advice from the WHO”.

Nurses from red list countries are still free to apply for UK jobs, but Mr Catton said the number of nurses moving from Nigeria “does look to be a high figure to be accounted for purely by individuals who are moving of their own accord”.

“We have seen a pick-up in global recruiting to countries in Europe and the US, and the pandemic is only likely to make that worse,” he added.

“I know the UK takes its ethical recruiting framework seriously, but the numbers we are seeing merit further investigation for people to be reassured.”

“What is important is that nurses that come to work in the UK from Nigeria are offered the help and support they need" Wendy Olayiwola

President of the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK, Wendy Olayiwola, said she was unaware of active recruitment of Nigerian nurses to the UK, and that some nurses were struggling to find jobs in their home country.

“What is important is that nurses that come to work in the UK from Nigeria are offered the help and support they need,” she said.

The NMC figures published on Tuesday revealed that the nursing and midwifery register had grown by 13,011 to a total of 744,929 in the six months to September 2021 – a rise of 1.8%.

Much of the register’s increase in that time was down to recruitment from overseas, with 10,642 of 24,036 new joiners coming from countries outside the European Economic Area.

Professor Judith Ellis, nurse and chair of trustees at the Tropical Health and Education Trust (THET), said: “I recognise the UK health workforce need for international recruitment but the vital element for me as chair of THET is ensuring ‘ethical recruitment practices’.

“This is about recognising that international recruitment must not come at the expense of low and middle-income countries that can at any time, not just when we are all facing a pandemic, ill afford to lose health workers.”

She added: “Ethical international recruitment to the NHS definitely brings benefit to the NHS and to the individuals personally choosing to join the UK nursing workforce, but UK organisations should not be actively and aggressively recruiting from red list countries, unless there is a recognisable benefit to the countries that have trained and educated them.”

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Unethical international nurse recruitment ‘is escalating’

World leaders must immediately halt the active recruitment of nurses from red list nations and overhaul the way international nurse recruitment is carried out, a global nursing representative has demanded.

How do they get through the rigorous recruitment process and have DBS checks done in the countries they come from and in the UK.? ? I was offered a Return to Nursing Practice post in August and am still going through that process.

Overseas recruitment, often from much poorer and less developed countries than our own has been used for decades to compensate for our own deficiencies in educating training and retaining an optimal work force ourselves. We should really have managed by now to ensure we educate sufficient nurses ourselves to meet our own needs. If nurses are struggling to find jobs in Nigeria it would, I suggest, be more ethical to look at ways to help increase jobs there and so improve conditions there. Of course there will always be a need to provide specific learning experiences but they would be planned, appropriate and of limited duration.

During the many years I have now been involved in nursing in one way or another there have been recurring crises due to insufficient RNs and associated campaigns of overseas recruitment to provide temporary solutions. Despite this we still do not appear to have accurate evidence based data on many of the key elements of nurse shortages and the reasons for them. Without that finding the best solution is very difficult.

During the many years I have now been involved in nursing in one way or another there have been recurring crises due to insufficient RNs and associated campaigns of overseas recruitment to provide temporary solutions. Despite this we still do not appear to have accurate evidence based data on many of the key elements of nurse shortages and the reasons for them. For example even deciding how many nurses are needed varies according to who is included, how they are counted – individuals or FTEs and the approach to setting establishment numbers and assessing patient care demands.

Ms. Hunt writes sense. Would that those In positions of influence knew this many years ago.

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Follow your dreams to live and work in the United Kingdom!

Visa sponsorship, your airfare paid and so much more!

Minimum criteria

• You must be a Registered Nurse 
• Current nursing license
• Minimum 6 months' registered practice (preferred)
• No more than 12 months out of practice (preferred)
• English language proficiency (applies to nurses who have trained in non-majority English speaking countries)

We help you every step of the way

Here at Drake Medox, we value each and every candidate and are committed to supporting you through every step of the application process until you start your dream job! We work with only the best and most supportive employers , to ensure you have the best experience possible here in the UK.

Don't delay, apply today!

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The process of becoming a UK RN

There are many steps to take on the road to becoming a UK Registered Nurse. Our team will be on hand every step of the way to help you, with expert advice and support.

English Language Proficiency

                                  whether the country in which you qualified as a nurse is included in the list of “majority English-speaking countries” as prescribed by the NMC.  

If you trained in a country that is NOT on this list, then you will need to pass one of the following English language tests as part of your UK registration application

For more information on becoming a UK RN and taking the CBT (Computer Based Test of Competence), please visit the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s website:

• Academic IELTS minimum score of 7.0 in Reading, Speaking & Listening and no less than 6.5 in Writing  OR
• OET pass at Grade B in Reading, Speaking & Listening and no less than C+ in Writing

Nursing in the UK

Being a Registered Nurse in the UK will have many similarities to being a registrant in any part of the world. The factors that influenced you to become a nurse and have driven you as a professional are universal.

Nurses act as leaders, carers, and clinicians, taking responsibility for the care they provide to patients.  In the UK, u nlike some countries, Nursing is regarded as a separate profession to Midwifery. A few points about nursing in the UK:

• Nursing education and practise are regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
• NHS employees are paid according to their level or ‘band’ on the career ladder. The bands range from 1 to 9, and Registered Nurses start on Band 5. Band 5 Registered Nurses deliver and coordinate direct patient care.
• UK Nurses do not just work in hospitals, there are opportunities to work in a variety of settings, such as community health and nursing homes, to mention just a few. 

Nursing is a diverse and rewarding career that really makes a difference!

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By choosing to relocate to the UK with Drake Medox, we will help you every step of the way, and we have a competitive package on offer:

• Base salary of  £28,407 - £34,581  
• International flight to the UK
• Visa application and sponsorship
• Access to free NHS healthcare
• Salary equivalency with your UK counterparts
• Support with your professional registration process
• FREE  CBT training and OSCE preparation
• FREE  'Become a UK Registered Nurse' eBook
• Accommodation sourced and prepared (and often paid for 1st month)
• Welcome pack on arrival
• And much more!

For full details of the excellent relocation and salary packages on offer, please contact our international recruitment team today.

Another great example of  how we help you succeed!

Start your UK journey today!

Our friendly and professional team are here to help you take the next exciting step in your career.

We are proud to have already welcomed healthcare professionals from all over the globe, including; Australia, Barbados, India, Kenya, New Zealand,  the Philippines the USA and Zimbabwe.

And we have even more nationalities in the process of deployment!

Please note that in accordance with the UK Code of Practice for International Recruitment, we cannot recruit from  these countries .

URGENTLY REQUIRED

Theatre/Scrub Nurses

Ward Nurses (Medical & Surgical)

Paediatric Nurses

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All Drake Medox nurses will receive a FREE COPY of this fantastic eBook (valued at $13.89), to help you prepare for working as a nurse in the UK and to ace the OSCE!

And we will NEVER charge you ANY fees!

Current Vacancies

We have lots of great opportunities for Internationally Educated Nurses right now!

Click on the brochures below to learn more about each employer and the salaries they are offering. For full details of each offer, please contact Drake Medox today!

Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust

Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust

Isle of Wight NHS Trust

Barts Health NHS Trust

Apply now to book your online interview today!

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust

The Children's Trust

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust

Nuffield Health

Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS FT

Kingston Hospital  NHS Foundation Trust

Harrogate & District NHS Foundation Trust

Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust

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We are now accepting applications from candidates who have narrowly missed the NMC’s English language criteria.

If you have scored no more than half a mark below the required scores, we still want to hear from you! ✅

Update to English language application criteria

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Recruitment of overseas nurses and midwives

6 August 2024

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Nurses and midwives who wish to work in the UK but trained overseas must gain professional registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Applicants are tested for competence through a two-part process to gain registration: the Test of Competence (ToC).

• Part one - computer-based test (CBT) multiple-choice examination which is accessible around the world for applicants to access in their home countries.
• Part two - practical objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), held in the UK in one of the five test centres .

To pass the ToC and join the register, applicants will also have to pass an English language exam. The tests can be taken in any order. 

The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE)

The OSCE is based on UK pre-registration standards. Candidates are required to act out scenarios that nurses or midwives are likely to encounter when assessing, planning, delivering and evaluating care. An individual entering the UK to take a nursing role has up to three months (12 weeks) from the employment start date noted on the certificate of sponsorship to sit their first attempt at an OSCE exam. During this period they can be legally employed as a pre-registration candidate. Applicants must complete the OSCE in the UK at an approved test centre.

What is involved in the OSCE?

The OSCE (as part of the new ToC) is made up of ten stations separated into four skills-based, four stations designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of care (APIE), and two silent skills. The  NHS constitutional values  and the 6Cs of nursing are assessed throughout the OSCE at all stations.  

Information on how to book a test can be found on the NMC website . Applicants review all course/module information to ensure they sit the correct exam, an overview of modules are available . If an incorrect CBT has been sat, applicants will be required to re-sit and pass the correct CBT.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has launched a  website hub  which contains all the information candidates, recruiters and employers prepare for the new ToC. The hub includes:

• candidate handbooks
• test specifications
• practice tests for the new CBTs
• an OSCE prep resource pack.

Approved OSCE test centres

There are five approved OSCE test centres, providing a choice of six locations to sit the OSCE. Please visit the links below for more information:

• University of Northampton
• Oxford Brookes University  (Oxford campus and Swindon campus)
• Ulster University  (Northern Ireland)
• Leeds Teaching University Hospitals NHS Trust
• Northumbria University .

OSCE bookings and capacity

We are aware that capacity remains limited at OSCE test centres, so in order to release test centre capacity across the system, the NMC is asking that trusts:

• be flexible around dates for booking tests and book the first availability. If this is outside of the 12-week period from arrival, speak with your NHS England IR lead
• look to all test centres when booking
• book tests in advance (ie when the CoS has been issued or the flights have been booked, well before candidates begin their training), but avoid overbooking block tests and keep track of what has been booked
• don’t cancel bookings at existing test centres to rebook at new ones
• confirm candidate details with test centres at least eight weeks before the test; these include the candidate’s name, personal registration number, application type, and confirmation of which exam they will be sitting, especially if booking tests before candidates arrive
• take time to ensure candidates who have failed their first attempt are fully ready to re-sit the test of competence.

OSCE preparation

To ensure candidates have adequate time to prepare for the OSCE, they are given up to 12 weeks from the start date on their certificate of sponsorship (CoS) to complete the first attempt of their exam. In the run-up to the exam, candidates should be given support and the opportunity to practice and prepare for the OSCE. 

The experience a candidate has in the first few weeks is vital to their success in the OSCE. The NMC's registration process no longer requires applicants to complete a period of supervised practice, therefore the importance of establishing a quality and well-structured induction and socialisation period is critical. Many trusts also provide specific OSCE preparation support for their international recruits. 

In preparation for the OSCE, it is important that candidates are familiar with the NMC nursing blueprints . The exam blueprints set out the scope and content of the OSCE in terms of the topics, skills and procedures that a newly registered nurse would need to know and be able to demonstrate. Find out more on the  NMC website .

Top tips for preparing candidates for the OSCE

The following top tips were provided by Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – both trusts have support programmes in place. 

• Empower candidates with practice and experience, and stress the importance of being able to verbalise and demonstrate their knowledge.
• Build up their resilience and confidence to speak up in front of others, as this can be something which overseas nurses are not always comfortable with. 
• Set up practice rooms in the same way as the OSCE, with simulated patients in a clinical setting, so that the setting is familiar to them.
• Create a dedicated support group - for example, a Facebook group.
• Consider sending a representative to complete a train-the-trainer course. This is run by both the University of Northampton and Ulster University, and allows information to be cascaded within the trust.
• Make sure candidates have plenty of time to practice their skills prior to taking the OSCE.
• Plan a mock, timed practice at least three weeks before the OSCE date to help identify if the candidate is ready (any later than this may then cause a delay in getting a new test date within the 12 week limit).
• If your candidates are not ready for their test, make sure you give them the choice to change the date.
• Although there is always time pressure linked to a candidate sitting the OSCE and to move staff through this process quickly, low pass rates suggest speed initially may cause more difficulties in the long term.

Rules for employers and overseas nurse applicants

• All overseas applicants need to pass their CBT and comply with all other initial requirements of the NMC overseas nursing process (including achieving language capability requirements) and sit the OSCE and complete their registration. NMC guidance is available on how an overseas applicant can meet the required level of English language capability.
• An individual entering the UK to take a nursing role normally has up to 12 weeks from the employment start date noted on the certificate of sponsorship (CoS) to sit their first attempt at the OSCE exam. During this period they can be legally employed as a pre-registration candidate.
• Candidates must sit their first OSCE test within 12 weeks.
• Individuals are responsible to decide which OSCE route they should be placed on. There are specific OSCE’s for adult nursing, paediatric nursing, mental health nursing, learning and disability nursing, midwifery, and nursing associates.
• the individual has passed part one of the NMC test of competence (CBT) 
• the individual has been issued with an offer of employment
• the individual has achieved the required level of language capability.
• a copy of the employment offer letter
• a copy of the email confirmation from the NMC to show the individual has passed the CBT.
• Following the immigration policy changes announced in December 2023, the minimum salary requirement is now £23,200 (for those on published pay scales) or £29,000 if not on published pay scales. The £23,200 salary threshold is in line with the entry pay point for Band 3 on the AfC pay scales 2024/25 . Employers are still advised to place nurses on the relevant banding for their role/skills. Band 2’s will not be eligible for sponsorship even though their salary is now above the £23,200 salary threshold, as these roles will not meet the required skill level (RQF 3 or A level and above) for sponsorship. 
• Applicants may sit the OSCE up to three times as part of one application.
• Applicants must pass their OSCE (candidates must pass all stations at 100 per cent) within eight months from the start of their visa.
• If an applicant is unsuccessful at their first or second OSCE attempt, they must wait a minimum of 10 working days before they can take the examination again. 
• Applicants only have to re-sit the parts of the exam they previously failed. There is a reduced re-sit fee of £397 to all applicants who have failed seven or fewer stations.
• If the applicant is unsuccessful after their permitted attempts, the employer must stop sponsoring them and as a result their leave to remain period will be shortened.
• Upon successful completion of the OSCE and awarding of NMC registration, employers need to commit to ongoing employment of the individual as a registered nurse on a salary in line with the requirements . 
• It may take 35 calendar days for the NMC to process applications for PINs. If there are any issues with receiving PINs, then email [email protected] and copy in  [email protected] . 
• Employers must be able to provide evidence of the above arrangement if requested.

Supporting information from the NMC

In 2023, the NMC implemented changes to their English Language requirements to support candidates. The changes are:

• extending the period of combining test scores to 12 months
• accepting supporting information from employers (SIFE) for candidates who missed the pass score by 0.5 – please note this is voluntary
• have a fully automated process of accepting supporting information from employers (SIFE).

Additional information on these changes can be found on the NMC website.  An FAQ for employers on SIFE is available with additional guidance available on the NHS Futures Platform which you must register to get access to.

Employers or individuals with queries about individual NMC registrations are advised to contact the NMC directly .

Applying for a certificate of sponsorship - need to know.

The Home Office is clear that employers must only apply for certificates when required and when it is certain when it will be used. The individual being sponsored must have a job offer and either:

• have obtained full registration with the NMC
• have passed the NMC's CBT
• be sponsored to undertake a supervised practice placement as part of the programme, which has been approved by the NMC.

Employers are required to provide evidence of the above in any applications for certificates of sponsorship. You must send a copy of the employment offer letter and a copy of the email confirmation from the NMC to show the individual has passed the CBT.

You can sign up for our weekly workforce bulletin to ensure you receive any updates on changes implemented for overseas nurse applicants.

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700 ‘fake’ Nigerian nurses working for UK’s National Health Service? No, 48 registered nurses suspected in Ibadan testing centre fraud

IN SHORT: Social media posts circulating in Nigeria claim that 700 Nigerian nurses have been found to have “fake qualifications” by the UK’s National Health Service. But this is quite a serious mangling of the facts around suspected testing centre fraud in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria.

“In the UK, the NHS found 700 Nigerian nurses had fake qualifications as people stood in for their exam,” reads a claim circulating on social media since late September 2023 .

It adds : “Nigeria is considered a 'red list' country for the recruitment of health professionals, meaning poaching of staff could endanger its own health and care system.”

The UK’s state-funded National Health Service , or NHS, provides comprehensive healthcare to the public for free.

The claim also appears here , here , here and here .

But did the NHS really find that 700 of its nurses from Nigeria had fake qualifications? And what does the “red list” have to do with it?

Two tests for qualified international nurses

Africa Check could find no news reports or any other evidence that the NHS had found that 700 of its working nurses – Nigerian or not – were unqualified because others stood in for their exams.

Instead, our research uncovered several online reports that the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) had discovered fraud at a Nigeria-based testing centre for international nurses.

The NMC is a nongovernmental organisation, independent of the state-run NHS . It regulates nursing and midwifery , maintains professional standards and keeps a register of more than 788,000 nurses and midwives allowed to work in the UK.

Nurses from other countries who want to register with the NMC have to pass two tests . The first is a computer-based test (CBT) usually done in the nurse’s home country. The second is a practical test in the UK.

But these are tests for nurses who are already qualified.

‘Anomalous data’ from Ibadan computer-based testing centre

In a 20 September statement , the NMC said “anomalous data” had been found in CBT results from the Yunnik Technologies Test Centre in Ibadan , the capital of Oyo state in southwestern Nigeria.

The statement reads :

There is evidence of widespread fraudulent activity at the Yunnik centre, where we suspect some people fraudulently obtained their CBT, probably by use of a proxy tester, where someone takes the test on behalf of someone else. Overall, this means we cannot have confidence in any CBT result from this test centre and we’re treating all CBTs obtained at Yunnik as invalid.

But the NMC adds that only 48 of the 515 nurses and midwives on its register tested at Yunnik “likely than not ... obtained their results fraudulently”. 

The 48 cases are to be referred to the council’s investigating committee for a final decision.

A possible 48 fraudulent test results that allowed people to register with the UK’s nursing council does not translate to 700 unqualified nurses working for the NHS.

The NMC’s statement says all nurses and midwives tested at Yunnik  – on its register, or still at the application stage – will have to be retested “to obtain a new CBT result”.

“To be clear, no final decision has been made and this does not relate to people’s original nursing/midwifery qualification,” an NMC spokesperson told Reuters .

The claim is false. And its reference to the “red list” may be more evidence of that.

Endangering the healthcare system of Nigeria, not the UK

The second part of the claim reads : “Nigeria is considered a 'red list' country for the recruitment of health professionals, meaning poaching of staff could endanger its own health and care system.”

But that means the UK recruiting health professionals from Nigeria could endanger the healthcare system of Nigeria , not the UK.

The drain of healthcare brains from poorer to wealthier countries has led the World Health Organization (WHO) to establish its health workforce support and safeguards list .

This lists countries where health professionals are most needed. It encourages other countries to not recruit from those countries. Nigeria is among 37 African countries on the safeguards list.

The UK government has adopted the WHO list in a code of practice . “Countries on the WHO Health Workforce Support and Safeguards List are graded red, which means no active recruitment is permitted from these countries,” the code reads.

This is the “red list” to which the claim refers.

Nurses from Nigeria may work in the UK, but may not be headhunted because that could worsen healthcare in Nigeria.

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WELCOME TO THE  NIGERIA NURSES CHARITABLE ASSOCIATION UK.

We are a community of UK nurses, midwives and health visitors who are driven by the desire to educate and empower each other.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024

Coming soon, view the photo gallery from the just concluded conference and gala night.

Our Mission is to provide a forum for collective action by Nigerian Nurses.

HERE TO SUPPORT YOU  

Established in 1998, NNCAUK is a registered charity and proudly  represents over 3,000 Nigerian nurses throughout the country.

We provide essential support to Nigerian nurses and midwives working across the entire health and social care sectors including the NHS and private healthcare.

RESOURCES & INFORMATION

For newly registered nurses, or existing professionals, associations or hospitals.

EVENTS & NETWORKING

Latest updates on NNCAUK events and workshops.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Courses, workshops, programmes and educational materials.

OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteering, speaking engagements and calls for papers.

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Latest information, support and advice from the NNCAUK Leadership team.

YOUR NNCAUK COMMUNITY

JOIN THE NIGERIAN NURSES CHARITABLE ASSOCIATION UK TODAY!

great salaries, great benefits, great opportunities

Nursing jobs for international nurses in usa, uk & germany.

Take advantage of these opportunities

with us, The Sky's The Limit

We match nurses with jobs.

We are a group of professionals working to recruit experienced qualified nurses from Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean to work in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Europe as recognized healthcare professionals.

SWA Nursing Recruitment works in partnership with employing groups in recruiting nurses from Europe, Africa and the Caribbean to the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe such as Germany to work as recognised healthcare professionals.

nurses placed globally

years of experience

countries of placement

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our unique process (United State of America)

Usa recruitment jobs, registration.

Apply online including all your contact details and submit your scanned CV on our portal.

You email us your details. We check your qualifications, CV and documents to ascertain your eligibility. We notify you of our decision.

Once you meet our criteria, you make the payment for registration and NCLEX exam. 

Documents Verification

One of our staff will go through your documents to verify authenticity.

CGFNS credential verification service (CES)

You register for the CES with CGFNS online.

board of nursing verification

We work with specific boards of nursing with whom we have established modus-operandi. Application and payment to the board of nursing is done.

Authorization for NCLEX

Once the above processes completed, ATT (authorisation to test) code issued and you are given a window to book and write the NCLEX exam

This is the professional exam you are required to pass in order to practise as a nurse in the USA. We book your exam at one of the international centres in the world (no centre in Africa).

3year job contract given, green card received and Go!

our unique process (United Kingdom and Europe)

Uk and europe recruitment jobs.

Submit your application and upload your CV. Indicate UK as country of choice.

Send us your current nursing license and CV via email when requested.

IELTS Preparatory Classes

Get accepted and enroll in our IELTS-preparatory classes where we will train you and provide materials to score the minimum 7.0 score.

Payment for IELTS Test

Pay for the IELTS-preparatory, mock assessments and materials.

Apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Council, UK as a foreign-trained nurse.

On passing IELTS, we enroll you with a specialist consultant in the UK who will interview you and get you materials for the nursing CBT test written in your country.

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Pass CBT, get certificate and a job offer that suits.

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Arrive in the UK.

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Germany recruitment jobs, transcript submission.

The process is the submission of translated transcript to the German language.

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Submission of the bio data page of international passport

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Submission of a nursing licence from acandidates home country.

how we recruit you for uK and europe jobs

Send us your current nursing licence and CV via email when requested.

Get accepted and enrol on our IELTS-preparatory classes where we will train you and provide materials to score the minimum 7.0 score. Willingness to pass the test is important and we offer all the needed support.

Pay £200 (or your currency equivalent) for the IELTS-preparatory, mock assessments and materials. Book and write IELTS test.

On passing IELTS, we enrol you with a specialist consultant in the UK who will interview you and get you materials for the nursing CBT test (Computer Based Test ) £90 - written in your country.

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FACT CHECK: Did The NHS Find 700 Nigerian Nurses With Fake Qualifications?

A post shared on X , the platform formerly known as Twitter, claims the National Health Service (NHS) has discovered 700 Nigerian nurses with fake qualifications. 

BREAKING NEWS: In the UK, the NHS found 700 Nigerian nurses had fake qualifications as people stood in for their exam. Nigeria is considered a ‘red list’ country for the recruitment of health professionals, meaning poaching of staff could endanger its own health and care system. pic.twitter.com/tJ9JnyGxop — PSAFLIVE (@PSAFLIVE) September 26, 2023

Verdict: False

The claim is inaccurate. There is no evidence the NHS is conducting such an investigation. The NMC, an organization the NHS directed us to, confirmed this is a false in an email to Check Your Fact.

Fact Check: 

British health secretary Steve Barclay announced that transgender women are to be banned from female NHS wards, according to The Independent . Barclay stated that the changes “would protect the privacy, dignity and safety of all patients,” The Guardian reported.

An X post claims that the NHS has found 700 Nigerian nurses guilty of having people stand in for their exams. The post shares a photo of four Black professionals in scrubs.

“BREAKING NEWS: In the UK, the NHS found 700 Nigerian nurses had fake qualifications as people stood in for their exam,” the post reads. “Nigeria is considered a ‘red list’ country for the recruitment of health professionals, meaning poaching of staff could endanger its own health and care system.”

There is no evidence for this claim, however. There are no credible news reports about the NHS conducting this investigation.   (RELATED: Did The NHS Remove The Word ‘Woman’ From Their Website?)

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) found that 48 Nigerian nurses are suspected of obtaining fake qualifications, with an additional 669 nurses and midwives suspected of fraud, according to Daily Mail . The post’s claim that Nigeria is a “red list” country for the NHS is accurate, meaning that Nigeria cannot be a target for international recruitment, according to the U.K. government’s website . 

“Yes this is a false claim,” the NMC told Check Your Fact in email. “We consider that 48 professionals on our register and 669 people in the application stage, who took their CBT at the Yunnik test centre, achieved their score in a time we believe is more likely than not to indicate that they obtained their result fraudulently.”

“To be clear, this only relates to one part of the two-part Test of Competence – which is the Computer Based Test (CBT) – that internationally trained professionals must pass before they’re able to join our register. No final decision has been made and this does not relate to people’s original nursing/midwifery qualification.”

Check Your Fact has reached out to the NHS for comment and will update this piece accordingly if one is received.

Fact Check Reporter

NHS Nursing Jobs in the UK for Nigerian Nurses with NMC Pin

For Nigerian nurses with an NMC pin, the UK offers an array of rewarding opportunities within the National Health Service (NHS).

Renowned for its high standards and commitment to patient care, the NHS is an ideal place for nurses to advance their careers. This guide explores the various nursing roles available, the benefits of working with the NHS, and the steps required to secure a position.

Why Work for the NHS?

The NHS is one of the largest and most respected healthcare systems in the world. Working for the NHS provides numerous benefits, including job stability, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to providing high-quality care and values the contribution of nurses from diverse backgrounds.

Key Benefits of NHS Nursing Jobs

• Professional Growth : The NHS offers numerous opportunities for training and career advancement, allowing nurses to specialize in different areas and take on leadership roles.
• Competitive Salaries : NHS nurses receive competitive pay, along with benefits such as pension schemes, paid leave, and healthcare coverage.
• Supportive Environment : The NHS fosters a supportive work culture with resources for continuing education and professional support.
• Work-Life Balance : With flexible working hours and various shift patterns, the NHS supports a healthy work-life balance.
• Diverse Work Settings : Nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, community health centers, and specialized care units.

Types of Nursing Roles Available

The NHS offers a wide range of nursing positions for Nigerian nurses with an NMC pin. Here are some key roles:

• Staff Nurse : Staff Nurses are essential members of the healthcare team, providing direct patient care in hospitals and community settings. They play a vital role in assessing, planning, and evaluating patient care.
• Specialist Nurse : Specialist Nurses have advanced training in specific areas such as oncology, pediatrics, or cardiology. They provide expert care and support for patients with complex health needs.
• Nurse Practitioner : Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice nurses who can diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and perform certain procedures. They often work in primary care settings.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist : Clinical Nurse Specialists focus on improving patient outcomes in specific areas of healthcare. They provide education, support, and leadership to nursing teams.
• Nurse Manager : Nurse Managers oversee nursing staff and ensure the efficient operation of healthcare units. They are responsible for staffing, budgeting, and maintaining high standards of care.

Requirements for Nigerian Nurses

To work as a nurse in the NHS, Nigerian nurses must meet several key requirements:

• NMC Pin : An NMC pin is essential, indicating that a nurse is registered with the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This registration ensures that nurses meet the professional standards required to practice in the UK.
• Relevant Experience : Having relevant nursing experience enhances your job prospects. Specific roles may require additional qualifications or specialized training.
• English Proficiency : Proficiency in English is crucial for effective communication. This is typically demonstrated through language tests such as IELTS or OET.
• Work Visa : Nigerian nurses need to secure the appropriate visa to work in the UK. The Tier 2 (General) visa is commonly used for skilled workers, including nurses.

Steps to Secure an NHS Nursing Job

Follow these steps to navigate the process of securing an NHS nursing job:

• Obtain NMC Registration : Ensure you have a valid NMC pin by registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. This involves meeting educational and professional standards and passing the necessary exams.
• Research Job Opportunities : Explore job vacancies on the NHS Jobs website and other healthcare recruitment platforms. Identify positions that match your skills and experience.
• Prepare Your Application : Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your qualifications, experience, and why you are a good fit for the NHS. Include your NMC pin and relevant certifications.
• Apply for Jobs : Submit your applications through the specified channels. Ensure you follow all application guidelines and meet the deadlines.
• Attend Interviews : Prepare for job interviews by researching the NHS trust and understanding the role you applied for. Be ready to discuss your experience, skills, and how you can contribute to the team.
• Secure a Work Visa : Once you receive a job offer, your employer will often assist with the visa application process. Ensure you provide all required documentation and meet visa requirements.
• Relocate and Start Work : Plan your move to the UK, including arranging accommodation and settling into your new role. Familiarize yourself with the local healthcare system and work culture.

Overcoming Challenges

Working in a new country can present challenges, but with the right preparation, you can succeed:

• Cultural Adaptation : Embrace the UK’s diverse culture and healthcare practices. Engage with colleagues and participate in professional networks to ease your transition.
• Financial Planning : Plan your finances carefully, considering the cost of living in the UK. Budget for initial expenses related to relocation and settling in.
• Professional Development : Take advantage of training and development opportunities offered by the NHS to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Support Systems : Build a support network of colleagues, mentors, and other Nigerian nurses working in the UK. They can provide valuable advice and support.

Success Stories

Many Nigerian nurses have found fulfilling careers within the NHS. For example, Chike, a Staff Nurse in Manchester, has progressed to a Specialist Nurse role in cardiology, thanks to the training and support provided by the NHS. Similarly, Amina, who started as a Staff Nurse in London, now works as a Nurse Manager, overseeing a busy surgical unit and mentoring new nurses.

The NHS offers a wealth of opportunities for Nigerian nurses with an NMC pin. With its commitment to quality care, professional development, and a supportive work environment, the NHS is an excellent place to build a rewarding nursing career. By understanding the requirements and following the necessary steps, you can successfully secure a nursing job in the UK and make a positive impact in the healthcare sector.

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Education, Information & Culture Redefined

• UK Nursing Recruitment Agencies in Nigeria

In this guide, you will discover some of the best UK nursing recruitment agencies in Nigeria

Nursing is the most employable degree in the UK, according to research by the NHS. After this, there is fierce rivalry for available employment due to the growing number of qualified nurses that are accessible each day.

Looking for UK nursing recruitment companies in Nigeria because you want to relocate as a nurse from Nigeria? You have a better chance of getting your ideal nursing career with the assistance of a recruitment agency.

This article will look at the nursing industry in the UK. We’ll emphasize the part that employment agencies play. We’ll also examine the top 10 nursing recruitment firms from the UK operating in Nigeria.

List of Top UK Nursing Recruitment Agencies in Nigeria

Looking for chances on your own might not be very effective if you want to go from Nigeria to the UK to work as a nurse.

Here, recruitment agencies’ function is to be considered. The top recruitment firm you can trust to find a nursing career in the United Kingdom will be highlighted in this article.

1. Global Nurse Force

The Global Nurse force is a reputable nurse-hiring company in the UK. Since its founding in 2000, the Global Nurse Force has been linking skilled nurses with medical facilities all around the world.

They accept applications from Nigerian nurses who want to work in the UK or any other country. The Global Nurse Force will lead you all the way through.

They will offer advice on how to apply for membership in the Nurses and Midwifery Council (NMC). You will be assisted in finding employment and dealing with your employer to negotiate pay and other terms.

They will also assist you in obtaining a visa and relocating to the UK.

• Read Also: Radiography vs Nursing Salary in UK

2. Drake Medox

Since 1978, NHS Trusts and private hospitals in the UK have benefited from the medical staffing services provided by Drake Medox UK. More than 20,000 medical professionals have been placed successfully in hospitals in the UK.

They recruit not only nurses but also doctors and other medical specialists. You can work with Drake Medox to get a job if you’re a Nigerian nurse looking to move to the UK. For more information, go to their official website.

3. MMA Recruitment

About 15 years have passed since the founding of MMA Recruiting. They have employed nurses during this time in numerous hospitals throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland. As a nurse-owned company, they are familiar with international relocation procedures.

They will assist you at every stage and offer material to help you pass the IELTS exam, which is necessary to work as a nurse in the UK.

They will also offer advice on how to apply for registration with the UK’s NMC. MMA is looking to hire aggressive, tenacious, and risk-taking nurses. For instructions, go to their official website.

4. Mayday Healthcare

Mayday Healthcare is a professional nursing recruitment agency that allows applicants to apply from Nigeria. They specialize in hiring nurses for the NHS and the private sector in the entire United Kingdom.

You can apply from Nigeria and receive complete guidance till you successfully migrate to the UK if you put your trust in the Mayday agency to find a job for you. Learn more about the nursing agency by visiting its website.

Why Use Recruitment Agencies?

Self-medication can help people get better, but it is usually a slow and unpredictable path to medical fitness. The same is true when looking for a job on your own, particularly abroad.

A recruitment firm specializes in assisting businesses/organizations to find qualified applicants for open positions/offices. They serve as a link between employers and workers. Thus, working with a reputable agency increases your chances of getting the job of your choosing.

A reputable recruitment agency has experience in the industry and nation where you’re looking for work. This knowledge would be beneficial to you. A recruitment firm can assist you in identifying and defining any grey areas that you may not be aware of.

You can polish up your curriculum vitae/resumé and cover letter with the assistance of their professional advice.

Most likely, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to convey the information highlighted in your curriculum vitae/resumé and cover letter, both effectively and ineffectively.

A competent recruitment agency will often present you with open roles that fit you and has your best interests at heart.

Making friends with whatever employment agency you decide to contact will be helpful in this regard. They will find it easier to assist you in your job search if you do this.

How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in the UK from Nigeria

If you’re from Nigeria and have internet access, you can easily apply for a nursing position in the UK. You have the option of applying on your own or through one of the nursing staffing companies mentioned above.

• The list of preparations you must make before beginning your job application is provided below:
• You must possess a nursing degree.
• You need to be a member of the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council.
• You must have an IELTS OR OET certificate
• When applying for a job either directly or through a recruitment agency, all of the aforementioned documents will be necessary.

Given the huge need for nurses in the UK right now, you will have no trouble finding employment there provided you are trained.

Although it is not a requirement, employment experience is a plus.

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Conclusion: UK Nursing Recruitment Agencies in Nigeria

Nursing is one of the most sought-after career fields in the United Kingdom. The majority of Nigerian nurses would like to move to the UK since nurses there make nearly five times as much as they do in Nigeria.

There are numerous nursing recruitment firms worldwide. This article highlighted the best ones so you don’t fall for fraudsters.

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I need a UK Job as a nurse.

I am a Nigerian trained Nurse/ Midwife , I have passed OET and CBT .seriously in need of UK placement. please kindly hire me.

I am a Nigerian registered Nurse with 12years working experience who has passed OET and CBT and commenced NMC UK registration. I am available for UK jobs and willing to relocate and join any cohorts. Hope to hear from you soon.

Kind regards.

I really need a job urgently in uk as a nurse.

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Nigerian Nurses Working in the UK Come Together, Reunite in Beautiful Places, Sharing Hugs

• Nigerian nurses residing in the UK recently reunited, capturing their heartwarming memories in a touching video
• In the footage, the nurses are seen gathered in a cosy home, exchanging hugs, laughter, and meaningful conversations
• The video also shows some of the women joyfully taking photos together, clearly cherishing the special moment

PAY ATTENTION: Follow our WhatsApp channel to never miss out on the news that matters to you!

Nigerian nurses living in the UK came together for a reunion and shared their heartwarming memories in a video.

In the video, the nurses were seen in a cosy house together, sharing hugs, laughter and conversations.

Some women showing what that moment meant to them could also be seen taking photos together happily. The video was posted by @cee_jay .

Watch the video below:

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Nigerian lady celebrates brother's top academic performance in Maths, Further Maths, and English

Reactions from people about the nurses

R.N_mhidey said:

“With faith I believe I’m doing a video like this with my guys one day. This is really cool.”

Alloh_tessy wrote:

“I go join una soon.”

Lizzy commented:

“I pray my school mate gather like this.”

Gift 12 also commented:

“God Abeg o.”

“Which school please.”

“I spot Cynthia.”

“Love a reunion.”

“@Nurse_Skibbo, we are doing this one day. amen.”

“I dey wait for CON Obangede.”

_Callmecee:

“Why is this video chaotic.”

“@Nurse Zara was busy fighting me.”

Blessing|RN:

“St Luke’s Anglican s.o.N Wusasa go ever cooperate ? Even if na naija own.”

“Na all your set don japa finish o.”

“Na why them talk say una dey collect their jobs, una dey ball.”

Nurse in UK graduates, celebrates her father

Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that a Nigerian nurse who recently graduated from a UK university expressed gratitude towards her father for his support and financial assistance throughout her studies.

Nigerian corps member shares stressful clearance day experience and meeting with comedian Papa James

In a touching video, she performed a dance to honour her father, demonstrating her appreciation for his contributions.

Themideganiyu joyfully announced that she had obtained a UK work visa, which was made possible by his unwavering dedication to funding her education .

PAY ATTENTION: Stay Informed and follow us on Google News!

Source: Legit.ng

Basit Jamiu (Editor) Basit Jamiu is an award-winning journalist and a human interest editor with more than 5 years of experience in the media (Ikeja Bird, Prime Progress, The Movee). He started his journalism career after graduating from Ekiti State University in 2018. He is a 2023 MTN Media Fellow, OCRP Fellow at ICIR, and Accountability Fellow at CJID. He also has professional certificates in Information Management, Technical Writing, Digital Marketing from Google. He can be reached via [email protected].

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My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

• My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
• She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
• Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

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I was worried about parenting with another person all the time. As the primary parent, I wasn't used to dividing parenting duties . My wife was aware of that and always deferred to me as the primary parent.

But the bond between my son and my wife was instant. He had never met someone I was dating before, but he liked her immediately.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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