UK

The UK has a long history of accepting international nurses as workers in their health system, and Australian and New Zealand workers have long been very highly regarded by the NHS.  However,  the NHS has in recent years imposed significant obstacles to international nurses, including Australian nurses, working in the United Kingdom. 

In 2014 the NHS introduced a scheme whereby nurses from Australia and New Zealand wanting to work in the UK, could sit an exam as a prerequisite to gaining VISA sponsorship to work in the UK.  The requirements of the exam are onerous and include both a multiple choice test and a scenario based skills and competence test.

Before sitting the test nurses must apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Newly qualified nurses must have a minimum of 12 months experience working as a Registered Nurse or Midwife. If you have been qualified longer than this, a minimum of 450 hours of practice in the last 3 years is required.

The assessment process can take up to 6 months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your desired departure date.

Due to the challenges associated with seeking a nursing, midwifery or allied health job in the UK and navigating the eligibility and VISA processes, we highly recommend that you seek the support and guidance of a recruitment agency that specialises in placing health professionals in the UK.

For more information about the process for nurses in Australia and New Zealand seeking employment in the UK, visit the NHS Careers website below. 

NHS Overseas Trained Nurses