How to Migrate as a Nurse from Nigeria to the UK in 2025

The United Kingdom (UK) continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for Nigerian nurses looking to build a better career and enjoy higher salaries. The UK faces a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, and the National Health Service (NHS) is actively recruiting nurses from countries like Nigeria.

Migrating as a nurse from Nigeria to the UK in 2025 is easier than ever because the UK government has simplified the visa process and increased the number of nursing vacancies. However, you must meet specific requirements, pass mandatory exams, and follow the correct application steps to be successful.

This guide provides a complete, step-by-step process on how Nigerian nurses can migrate to the UK in 2025, including:

• Eligibility and qualifications required

• IELTS and CBT exam preparation

• How to apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC UK)

• Job application strategies (NHS or private hospitals)

• UK visa process and costs

• Salary expectations and life in the UK

Summary Table: Key Steps to Migrate as a Nurse from Nigeria to the UK (2025)

1. Eligibility Requirements for Nigerian Nurses Migrating to the UK in 2025

Before you begin the migration process, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria set by the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Who is eligible?

• You must be a qualified nurse or midwife in Nigeria

• You must hold a current practicing license issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)

• You must have at least 12 months of post-qualification work experience

• Your nursing degree or diploma must meet NMC UK standards

Documents needed

• Valid international passport

• Degree or diploma certificate from an accredited nursing school

• NMCN verification certificate

• Updated CV/resume

• Police clearance certificate

• Birth certificate or age declaration

Having these documents ready early will make the application process faster.

2. English Language Requirement: IELTS or OET

To practice nursing in the UK, you must prove your English language proficiency.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Required overall band score: 7.0

• Minimum scores in each category:

  • Listening: 7.0

  • Reading: 7.0

  • Speaking: 7.0

  • Writing: 6.5

OET (Occupational English Test)

• Minimum score: Grade B (350) in each category (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking)

Tip: If you fail one area by 0.5 (e.g., 6.5 instead of 7 in IELTS), you can combine two test results (within 6 months) as long as you do not score below 6.5 in any category.

3. NMC UK Application and Document Verification

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC UK) regulates nurses and midwives. You must create an account and submit your documents online.

Steps for NMC UK application

1. Create an NMC online account via nmc.org.uk

2. Submit identity documents (passport, birth certificate)

3. Provide qualification documents (degree/diploma)

4. Request NMCN verification (Nigeria) to be sent directly to NMC UK

5. Pay the application assessment fee (£140 in 2025)

4. Pass the CBT (Computer-Based Test)

The CBT is the first nursing exam you must pass before getting a job offer.

CBT exam details

• Online multiple-choice exam

• Covers general nursing theory, clinical skills, and UK healthcare standards

• Conducted by Pearson VUE centers in Nigeria

• Exam fee: £83

You can take the CBT before or after getting a job offer, but passing it early increases your chances of being hired.

5. How to Secure a Nursing Job in the UK (NHS or Private Hospitals)

Once you pass the CBT and meet the English language requirements, you can start applying for jobs.

Where to find nursing jobs in the UK?

1. NHS Jobs Portal: www.jobs.nhs.uk

2. UK-based recruitment agencies hiring Nigerian nurses

3. Private hospitals and care homes

4. Direct hospital recruitment drives in Nigeria

Benefits of NHS jobs

• Free Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

• Paid flight ticket to the UK

• First-month accommodation

• Payment for OSCE exam after arrival

Tip: Avoid paying middlemen. Apply directly to hospitals and agencies approved by the NHS.

6. Apply for the UK Health and Care Worker Visa

Once you get a job offer, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You can then apply for the UK Health and Care Worker visa.

Visa requirements

• CoS from your employer

• Proof of English language (IELTS/OET)

• Valid passport

• Proof of available funds (minimum £1,270 in your account for 28 days, unless your employer certifies your funds)

• Tuberculosis test result

Visa costs in 2025

• Visa fee: £247 (up to 3 years)

• You are exempted from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

7. Travel to the UK and Pass the OSCE Exam

After your visa is approved, you can travel to the UK to start work. You will be employed as a pre-registered nurse until you pass the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination).

OSCE details

• Practical exam testing clinical skills and patient care

• Must be passed within 12 weeks of arrival in the UK

• Exam fee: £794 (first attempt)

Once you pass the OSCE, you will become a fully registered nurse with the NMC UK and earn the full salary.

Salary Expectations for Nigerian Nurses in the UK (2025)

NHS salary bands

• Band 5 nurses (entry-level): £28,000 – £34,000 per year

• Band 6 nurses (experienced): £35,000 – £42,000 per year

• Band 7 and above: £43,000 – £55,000 per year

Allowances

• Extra pay for working nights, weekends, and public holidays

• Relocation benefits (free flights and accommodation for the first month)

• Pension contributions

Life as a Nigerian Nurse in the UK

The UK offers excellent working conditions, but you should be prepared for cultural differences and the high cost of living in major cities.

Tips for settling in the UK

• Join Nigerian nurses’ associations for support

• Choose affordable accommodation (outside London is cheaper)

• Learn about UK healthcare policies and workplace culture

Costs Summary for Migrating as a Nurse to the UK (2025)

Note: Many NHS employers will reimburse most of these costs after you arrive.

FAQs: How to Migrate as a Nurse from Nigeria to the UK (2025)

1. How long does it take to migrate as a nurse from Nigeria to the UK?

The entire process can take 6 to 12 months, depending on how quickly you pass your exams and secure a job.

2. Do I need work experience before applying?

Yes, at least 1 year of post-qualification experience is required.

3. Can I travel with my family?

Yes. The Health and Care visa allows you to bring your spouse and children as dependents.

4. Who pays for my flight ticket to the UK?

Most NHS employers pay for your flight and initial accommodation.

5. What happens if I fail the OSCE?

You can retake it up to three times, but you must pass within 8 months of arriving in the UK.

6. Can I work privately instead of with the NHS?

Yes, but NHS jobs usually offer better support and benefits for new international nurses.

7. How much will I earn as a nurse in the UK?

Band 5 nurses earn between £28,000 and £34,000 per year, plus allowances.

8. Can I apply without IELTS?

No. You must pass IELTS or OET to register with NMC UK.

9. Are there scholarships for the migration process?

Some hospitals may reimburse exam fees, but there are no formal scholarships.

10. Do I need an agent to migrate to the UK?

No. You can apply directly to hospitals or through approved recruitment agencies.

Conclusion: Migrating as a Nurse to the UK is Achievable in 2025

Migrating as a nurse from Nigeria to the UK is one of the best career decisions you can make in 2025. The UK offers excellent salaries, better working conditions, and opportunities for career growth.

The key steps to follow include:

1. Meeting the eligibility requirements

2. Passing IELTS or OET

3. Registering with NMC UK

4. Passing the CBT exam

5. Securing a job offer

6. Applying for the Health and Care Worker visa

7. Traveling to the UK and passing the OSCE

If you follow these steps carefully, you can successfully relocate within 6–12 months and enjoy a fulfilling nursing career in the UK.