Meet our International Committee
We take a closer look at the committee's work, role and how it functions within the RCN
Our international work
We represent UK nursing globally and support international colleagues.
The RCN works with international alliances and stakeholders in the UK, Europe and beyond to influence health and nursing policy globally.
We focus on supporting our international workforce by seeking to influence:
- an inclusive immigration system
- a fair testing and registration process
- sustainable and ethical recruitment into the UK
We also work with partners to influence both UK and global health policy that recognises and promotes the rights, expertise and leadership of nurses. In doing so, we can achieve better global health outcomes for all.
Illegal Migration Act
The Illegal Migration Act represents a backwards step that undermines fundamental human rights enshrined in international law. We opposed the Bill as it progressed through Parliament and worked alongside key partners in the health sector to raise the alarm about its consequences for the health and wellbeing of those seeking safety in the UK.
Code of Practice for International Recruitment
We successfully campaigned for changes to the UK Code of Practice for International Recruitment. To ensure better recruitment practices, the Code now includes new principles on the use of repayment clauses. We continue to press the Government to do more to tackle unethical recruitment from countries facing pressing workforce challenges.
Our commitment to improving nursing globally
Find out more about our work to influence global health policy and the international alliances we are a member of.
International workforce
The RCN supports internationally trained nurses in the UK and calls on UK governments to ensure that international recruitment is conducted ethically.
- Without a Safety Net report
- Letter to the Home Secretary and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on visa fee increases
- Consultation response: An inspection of the immigration system as it relates to the social care sector
- Consultation response: Shortage Occupation List: Call for Evidence 2023
Nursing leadership
Nurses across the world have a critical role in achieving universal health coverage (UHC) and other population health goals. The RCN has called for the UK to invest in health systems globally, and implement the recommendations of the WHO’s Global Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery.
- Open Letter: Letter to the Foreign Secretary on Universal Health Coverage Day 2023
- Consultation response: WHO Global Code Independent Stakeholder Reporting Instrument (2024)
- Consultation response: WHO Strategic Directions on Strengthening Nursing and Midwifery 2021-2025
Sustainable development goals
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals for all countries to work towards in global partnership. Included within the SDGs is the aim to improve health and education, reducing inequality and tackling climate change. Nurses have a critical role in achieving all of the SDGs.
International alliances
International alliances bring together nursing organisations from across the world to work together on issues impacting the profession. The RCN is a member of a number of international alliances including:
International nursing members
Information, guidance and advice for international members, working in the UK and overseas.
Immigration advice service
If you're an RCN member and are already in the UK, you can get free, confidential support and assistance on immigration issues.
