International Healthcare Professionals for the UK

How can I work in the NHS as an overseas health professional?

We set out this information for qualified overseas healthcare professionals, including details about professional registration and immigration requirements.    

International recruitment is an option used by many employers in the UK and across the world to try and fill vacancies in certain areas of the country or within professions where there are significant skill shortages.

Currently in the UK, there is a strong focus on increasing overseas nurse supply with lots of opportunities available across the country.

• avoiding scams
• working rights and standards
• what to consider when deciding whether to take a health or care job in the UK
• where to go for further guidance, support or help in the UK

How can I work in the NHS as an overseas health professional?

Anyone from outside of the UK (excluding from the Republic of Ireland) will need permission from  (UKVI) to work in the UK and may also need entry clearance before travelling here.  

UKVI is responsible for managing migration. To obtain a visa or entry clearance, you will need to meet certain requirements and demonstrate you have the right to work in the UK via:

• the points-based immigration system
• the EU settlement scheme
• a biometric residence permit

Points-based immigration system

The Home Office (of which UKVI is a part) is responsible for governing the way individuals from outside the EEA can work, train or study in the UK. 

A new points-based immigration system was introduced in January 2021. The system provides a route for both EEA and non-EEA nationals to work, train or study in the UK if they meet the eligibility criteria.

This points-based system has largely replaced the previous tiered system. It applies to everyone from outside of the UK who wishes to live and work here, apart from people from the Republic of Ireland and individuals who were already in the UK by 31 December 2020. 

While there is currently no cap on the number of skilled UK migrants allowed to enter the UK, they must meet the skilled worker criteria to apply to live and work here. A Health and Care Worker visa allows health and care professionals to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with the NHS, an NHS supplier or in adult social care.

Applications are assessed using a points system that is intended to only allow entry to those whose skills will benefit the UK. The number of points required, and the way the points are awarded, depend on the category under which individuals apply, but reflect:

• a job offer
• skill level
• language competence
• qualifications 
• other set criteria

Some occupations are recognised by UKVI on the national immigration salary list (this has replaced the shortage occupation list). Occupations on this list have a lower minimum salary requirement than the usual rate for the skilled worker or health and care visa routes.