Before You Arrive: Guide for Nigerian NHS Workers
What to prepare before your move from Nigeria to the UK
- NMC registration (for nurses and midwives) — Apply via the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
- NMCN verification — Your qualifications issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria need to be verified before the NMC can progress your application.
- GMC registration (for doctors) — Register via the General Medical Council.
- HCPC registration (for allied health professionals) — Physiotherapists, radiographers, and other AHPs register via the Health and Care Professions Council.
- CBT and OSCE preparation (nurses) — The Computer Based Test is taken before you travel; the OSCE is taken in the UK. Your trust may offer preparatory support — confirm this before signing your contract.
- PLAB test (doctors) — The Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board test is required for most overseas doctors seeking GMC registration.
- Typical timeline: 6–12 months from initial application to receiving your registration. Start as early as possible.
- Valid international passport with at least 6 months validity
- Degree certificates and transcripts — original and certified copies
- NMCN or MDCN (Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria) registration certificate
- Nigerian Police Clearance from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
- Document authentication through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)
- Medical examination results from an approved panel physician
- IELTS or OET score certificate
- Reference letters from current and previous employers
- Marriage certificate and family documents if applicable
Document authentication through the MFA can take 2–4 weeks. Start early and get multiple certified copies — replacements from Nigeria while in the UK can take months.
- Recommended savings: ₦5,000,000 – ₦8,000,000 (approximately £3,000 – £5,000 depending on the exchange rate)
- Common costs: IELTS/OET fees, NMC/GMC application fees, OSCE/PLAB fees, visa fees, medical examination, and flights
- Set up a Wise or Remitly account before departure — you'll need it for transfers home once you arrive
- Consider opening a domiciliary account with your Nigerian bank for easier GBP management
The Naira-to-GBP exchange rate fluctuates significantly. Convert your savings to GBP or USD well in advance if possible. Your first NHS payday may be 4–6 weeks after starting — budget for no income in that period.
- Employment contract and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Information about temporary accommodation — not all trusts offer this, so ask explicitly
- Airport pickup — some trusts arrange this, some do not
- Induction schedule and pastoral support
Ask your trust recruiter every question you have, no matter how small. Get confirmation of accommodation, airport pickup, and induction details in writing before you travel.
- UK plug adapters — Nigeria uses Type D/G plugs; some Nigerian plugs already fit UK sockets, but bring adapters to be safe
- Enough prescription medication to cover your first month in the UK
- Copies of all documents — physical copies in your carry-on AND digital scans emailed to yourself
- Professional uniforms if required by your trust — confirm this in advance
- Warm, waterproof clothing — invest in a proper winter coat, thermals, and waterproof shoes. London weather is much colder and wetter than Nigeria.
- Consider shipping non-urgent items via cargo services popular with the Nigerian diaspora — it typically takes 6–10 weeks
Bring a small amount of GBP cash (£100–200) for immediate expenses. Nigerian bank cards may not always work at UK ATMs — don't rely solely on your Nigerian card.
- Activate international roaming or buy a UK SIM online before you leave — Three and giffgaff ship internationally
- Download offline maps for London on Google Maps — useful before your UK SIM is set up
- Save your trust's HR contact number and your temporary accommodation address somewhere accessible offline
- Join Nigerian NHS worker communities on Facebook and WhatsApp — search "Nigerian Nurses in UK" for active groups
- Inform your Nigerian bank about international travel to avoid your card being blocked
- Ensure your NIN (National Identification Number) is linked to your bank accounts before you leave
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial, legal, or immigration advice. Immigration rules, registration requirements, and processes change regularly. For immigration matters, consult a qualified immigration adviser or solicitor. For financial matters, consult a qualified financial adviser. Always check official government and regulatory body websites for the latest information.
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