Immigration FAQs

Here you can find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that we deal with. However, this is not an exhaustive list and you should contact the Immigration Advice Service if you can't find what you're looking for or for further advice on any of the answers listed here.

How do I apply for registration as a nurse in the UK?

You need to contact the Nursing and Midwifery Council for a registration application pack. Telephone: 020 7333 6600; e-mail: overseas.enquiries@nmc-uk.org ; www.nmc-uk.org. The NMC will assess the overseas nurse's application and will either ask them to undertake the Overseas Nursing Programme (ONP) or the ONP plus a period of supervised practice. 

Advice on the appropriate visa for the Overseas Nursing Programme is available from the RCN Immigration Advice Service.

All overseas trained nurses are required to sit the International English Language Test (IELTS) and achieve at least 7.0 in the listening and reading section, at least 7.0 in the writing and speaking section and an overall average score of 7.0 (out of a possible 9).  You must pass the IELTS test prior to commencing the Overseas Nursing Programme.

How do I obtain a work permit to work in the UK?

Work Permit applications should be submitted to the Border and Immigration Agency on Form WP1.  Only an employer can submit a Work Permit application.

Once a Work Permit is approved, the overseas nurse must apply to the Border and Immigration Agency for leave to remain in the United Kingdom ¡V Form FLR (IED).

Do overseas nurses require a new work permit on changing employment?

The prospective employer should apply for a new work permit on Form WP1 and, if approved, the overseas nurse should apply for further leave to remain in the new employment ¡V Form FLR (IED).

You should not resign from your approved work permit employment until a new work permit is approved.

Can a work permit holder undertake supplementary employment?

An overseas nurse who has a work permit and wishes to take work additional to that for which the permit was issued, may do so without further permission from the Border and Immigration Agency, provided the work is:

  • outside of their normal working hours
  • no more than 20 hours per week
  • in the same profession and at the same professional level for which the holder¡¦s Work Permit was issued
  • not employed by a recruitment agency, employment agency or similar business to provide personnel to a client.

If you require specific advice about work permits or leave to remain applications, please contact the RCN Immigration Advice Service.

Where will I find details of nursing vacancies?

Details of NHS vacancies can be found at www.nhsjobs.net and are advertised in Job Centres across the UK. You will also find details of nursing vacancies on the following website:

What do I do if I am asked to attend for interview for a UK vacancy?

If you require immigration advice regarding entering the UK for a job interview, please contact the RCN Immigration Advice Service.

I need to extend/change status of my visa. Can you help me to obtain the correct visa?

The answers to visa enquiry questions will vary considerably depending on the caller's immigration status, immigration history and what visa they require. All such enquiries must be referred to the RCN immigration advisers in Croydon.

Can the RCN help to bring my spouse, partner, civil partner and family to the UK?

We can offer advice to those who want their spouse, partner, civil partner and family to join them in the UK. However, we cannot offer letters of support for the entry of family members and we do not submit entry clearance applications to British Embassies/High Commissions abroad.

What are my rights of appeal?

In cases of refusals/appeals we can only offer advice, as we do not represent at appeals.

Can asylum seekers work?

A person who has applied for asylum in the UK is not permitted to take employment. You can contact the RCN Immigration Advice Service for further advice.

Where can I enquire about British citizenship?

Application forms for citizenship can be obtained from the RCN Immigration Advice Service or from the Home Office website at: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk.

How can I find information about the Life in the UK test?

The Life in the UK Test is now required for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK or British citizenship. There is a dedicated website on the test, which offers the Life in the United Kingdom: a Journey to Citizenship handbook, which is the only book needed to complete the test. Go to: www.lifeintheuktest.gov.uk or contact our service for further advice.

I am a national of the EU/EEA and I am unclear about my immigration status in the UK.

We can offer you more advice and information about immigration requirements for EU/EEA Nationals and their families.

This information is valid as at: June 1, 2007