Before You Arrive: Guide for International NHS Workers

General pre-departure checklist for healthcare professionals moving to the UK

Professional Registration

NMC registration (for nurses and midwives) — Apply via the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
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.
Your overseas qualifications will need to be verified by the relevant UK regulator before your application can progress.
CBT and OSCE (nurses) — The Computer Based Test is typically taken before you travel; the OSCE is taken in the UK.
PLAB (doctors) — The Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board test is required for most overseas doctors seeking GMC registration.
Check the specific requirements for your country's qualifications on the relevant regulator's website — requirements vary.
Typical timeline: 6–12 months from application to registration. Start as early as possible.

Documents to Gather

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Degree certificates, diplomas, and transcripts — original and certified copies
Professional registration certificate from your home country
Police clearance certificate from your country (and any country you've lived in for 12 or more months)
Medical examination results from an approved panel physician
IELTS or OET score certificate — check minimum scores required for your specific profession
Reference letters from current and previous employers
Marriage certificate and family documents if applicable

Requirements vary by country. Check with the relevant UK registration body for your specific country's requirements. Get multiple certified copies of everything — replacements from overseas take time.

Financial Preparation

Recommended savings: the equivalent of £3,000 – £5,000 before you travel
Common costs: language test fees, registration fees, OSCE/PLAB fees, visa application fees, medical examination, and flights
Set up a Wise or Remitly account before you leave for cheaper international transfers once you arrive
Inform your home bank about international travel to avoid your card being blocked on arrival

Your first NHS payday may be 4–6 weeks after you start. Budget assuming no income for the first 6 weeks. London is expensive — prepare accordingly.

What Your NHS Trust Should Provide

Employment contract and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Information about temporary accommodation — not all trusts offer this, so ask explicitly
Airport pickup arrangements — some trusts provide this, some do not
Induction schedule

Don't assume anything is included. Ask your trust recruiter directly about accommodation, airport pickup, and induction details. Get everything confirmed in writing.

What to Pack

UK plug adapters — The UK uses Type G (three rectangular pins). Check what plug type your home country uses and bring adapters accordingly.
Enough prescription medication to cover your first month — getting an NHS prescription takes time after arrival
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 — London weather includes cold winters and frequent rain. A good winter coat is essential.

Bring a small amount of GBP cash (£100–200) for immediate expenses on arrival. Don't rely solely on your overseas bank card — fees add up and some may not work at UK ATMs.

Things to Do Before Your Flight

Activate international roaming or buy a UK SIM online — Three and giffgaff ship to many countries
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
Research communities of healthcare workers from your country in the UK — Facebook groups are a good starting point
Ensure your bank account has online banking enabled and can receive international transfers

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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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Before You Arrive: Guide for International NHS Workers

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