As a UK nurse or healthcare assistant, the world is your oyster when it comes to finding new career opportunities overseas. However, navigating the international recruitment process can be overwhelming and confusing. From language barriers to visa requirements, there are many factors that you need to consider before embarking on this exciting journey. In this blog post, we’ll give you some top tips for navigating the international recruitment process as a UK nurse or healthcare assistant so that you can make informed decisions about your future career path abroad!
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. which are;
- Get certified: You must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to get certified as a healthcare assistant or nurse in the UK.
- Research destinations: Once you’ve got your certification, you can start researching different countries and what it takes to work as a healthcare practitioner overseas. Consider things such as language barriers, cultural differences and any other specific requirements of each destination country.
- Secure employment: In order to work abroad, you’ll need to secure an offer of employment from an overseas employer that meets the requirements set by the NMC for international recruitment (including visa requirements). Make sure you read all of the paperwork carefully before signing a contract or accepting any job offers!
- Prepare for travel: As part of your preparation for travelling abroad, make sure you have all necessary documents and visas in order before stepping on the plane! It may also be worth considering taking out medical insurance while working abroad – both in case of injury or illness on your travels, but also because some countries may require it as part of their regulations for foreign employees.
- Have an adventure: Now comes the exciting part – packing your bags and jetting
Nursing and Midwifery Council(NMC)
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is the professional regulator for nurses and midwives in the United Kingdom. They are responsible for setting standards of education, training, conduct and practice for nurses and midwives. The NMC has a process for registering nurses and midwives from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes a computer-based training (CBT) module and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
Start online application
To Start your online application with the NMC, you will need to create an account and complete an application form. You will also need to pay a fee. After your application has been submitted, you will be contacted by the NMC to schedule your CBT.
Computer based training(CBT)
The CBT is a multiple-choice examination that tests your knowledge of UK healthcare systems and practices. It must be completed within six months of starting your application.
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE )
Once you have completed the CBT, you will be asked to schedule your OSCE. The OSCE is a practical examination that tests your clinical skills. It must be completed within 12 months of passing the CBT.
After you have passed both the CBT and OSCE, you will be registered with the NMC and can begin practicing as a nurse or midwife in the UK!
Employment process
The process of being employed as a nurse or healthcare assistant in the UK can be a long and complicated one, but we’re here to help guide you through it.
Interview with employer
The first step is to have an interview with your potential employer. This is usually done via Skype or telephone, and is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about the job, the company, and what the working conditions will be like.
NMC assessment
Once you’ve successfully completed your interview, you’ll then need to complete an assessment with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This assessment will test your knowledge and skills to make sure that you meet the high standards required to work in the UK healthcare system.
Job offer
If you pass the NMC assessment, you’ll then be offered a job. Before you start working, however, there are a few more steps that need to be completed.
Pre- employment checks
Your new employer will need to carry out some pre-employment checks, such as verifying your qualifications and checking your references.
Sponsorship/Visa application / Travel to the UK
You may also need to apply for a sponsorship or visa if you’re not already eligible to work in the UK. Once all of these steps have been completed, you’ll be able to travel to the UK and start working in your new role!
Good luck and we hope that this guide has helped you understand the employment process for nurses and healthcare assistants in the UK!
