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
Guide to common English expressions
A handy glossary of figurative sayings and slang.
No Recourse to Public Funds
A handy glossary of figurative sayings and slang.
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
Further resources
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 .
London:
London: The CapitalNurse Consortium
NHS resource -
Find out more from the .
View the website for more information.
Visit the website for more information.
For information on visas and immigration, visit
Fair Pay For Nursing
- Find out more about the Fair Pay for Nursing campaign and how you can get involved.
- Hear from internationally-educated nurse Hareg on her experience taking strike action as an IEN.
Get involved
Become an RCN representative or join one of our many forums and networks. Get involved and together we can achieve more.
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.
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.
