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Welcome

International nursing members

Information, guidance and advice for international members working in the UK.

If you are an internationally-educated nursing professional working within the UK, welcome to the RCN. 

With over half a million members, we are the world’s largest nursing trade union and professional body.

There are lots of things to think about before moving to the UK for work or study. Our advice guide for overseas nursing staff and students covers all the essentials, including:

  • employment contracts in the UK
  • work experience and examinations
  • bringing your family with you
  • the UK health system and NMC

Advice guide for overseas nursing staff and students

Helpful quick links

Guide to common English expressions

A handy glossary of figurative sayings and slang.

Going on maternity leave or a career break?

Switch your membership to save money and stay protected.

Are you coming to the UK?

Information for overseas nursing staff and students coming to the UK.

Celebrating and supporting IEN staff live events

Our live events for internationally educated nursing staff can assist you with some of the challenges and questions you may have. Visit our webpage for further information and live event dates.

Journey of an Internationally educated nurse short film series

As the number of internationally educated nursing staff (IENS) coming to work in the UK continues to rise, this series of short films highlights some of the unique stories from our IEN members as they reflect on their journey to, and experience of living in the UK.

How the RCN can support you

Two nurses talking

Member support

We're here to help. We offer counselling, peer support and immigration advice.
Nurse campaigning

Case studies

See how we have recently helped some of our international members.
Nurse smiling with patient

Careers Service

Find out more about expert career coaching, online resources and events.
People in forum

Forums

Join one or more of our forums and networks.
Library

Library

Develop and grow with access to Europe’s largest nursing library resource. 
Nurse at laptop

Financial wellbeing

Advice, support, and resources to help you feel more in control.

Further resources

RCN Foundation

Help for International Nurses registered in the UK, registered with the NMC or working as an HCA in the UK.

Revalidation

You need to revalidate with the NMC every three years to remain fit to practise.

Resources specific to where you are practicing

For more information and resources relating to your specific country of practice, take a look at our links to information from various sources:

View information on NHS Employers International recruitment toolkit.

London: The CapitalNurse Consortium

London: The CapitalNurse Consortium Handbook and Welcome Pack for Overseas Nurses

NHS resource - International nurses. Your career. Our commitment. 

Find out more from the Stronger Together Northern Ireland.

View the International Recruitment | NHSScotland Careers website for more information.

Visit the Train, Work, Live website for more information.

For information on visas and immigration, visit trainworklive.wales/live/

Fair Pay For Nursing

Get involved

Become an RCN representative or join one of our many forums and networks.  Get involved and together we can achieve more.

CPD Programme for Indian nurses

RCNi's online education resource for nurses in India provides best practice for continuing professional development.

Attending Congress?

Find out everything you need to know about attending Congress 2025 in Liverpool from 12 to 15 May, and what you can expect.
Campaigns

Get involved and make the voice of nursing even stronger

Nurse and midwife membership

Find out what the RCN can offer nurses and midwives through membership.

HCAs, APs, NAs and TNAs

Find out what the RCN can offer you if you are working in the nursing team.
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