Are you a qualified Nurse looking to expand your career and work in Ireland? AllSkillRecruitment, we specialise in helping nurses from all over the world secure rewarding positions across Ireland healthcare system.
This page will guide you through the process of becoming a registered Nurse in Ireland, including the necessary steps, documents required, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a nurse from the EU, UK, or beyond, we’re here to support you.
Why Work as a Nurse in Ireland?
- Excellent Healthcare System: Ireland has a high standard of healthcare with modern facilities and ongoing advancements.
- Attractive Salary Packages: Irish healthcare facilities offer competitive pay scales for qualified nurses.
- Career Growth: Continuous professional development and opportunities for advancement in a wide range of specialties.
- Work-Life Balance: Ireland is known for its supportive work environments and quality of life.
Steps to Becoming a Registered Nurse in Ireland
- Nursing Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI)
All nurses who wish to work in Ireland must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). Follow these steps:- Eligibility: Ensure that your nursing qualification is recognised by the NMBI.
- Document Submission: Submit an online application along with your qualification, transcript of training, employment history, identity documents, and references.
- English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you need to provide proof of proficiency (IELTS or OET scores).
- Qualification Assessment: NMBI will evaluate your qualifications and experience. This may take several weeks.
- Decision Letter: If successful, you will receive a decision letter allowing you to proceed with registration.
- Adaptation or Aptitude Test: If required, you need to complete a period of adaptation in an Irish healthcare facility or pass an aptitude test before final registration.
- Apply for a Work Visa (Non-EU Nurses)
If you are from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you will need a work permit to practice in Ireland:- Critical Skills Employment Permit: Nurses fall under Ireland list of critical skills, making it easier to obtain this permit.
- General Employment Permit: In cases where you don’t qualify for a critical skills permit, you can apply for this.
- Stamp 4 Visa: After two years on a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you can apply for Stamp 4, which allows you to work without needing further permits.
- Garda Vetting & Health Checks
All healthcare professionals in Ireland must undergo Garda vetting (Irish police clearance) and provide medical documentation to ensure they are fit to practice. - Find Employment in Ireland
Once registered, AllSkillRecruitment can help you secure a position with our network of hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across Ireland.
Required Documents for NMBI Registration
To ensure a smooth registration process with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI), you will need to submit a complete set of documents that verify your qualifications and professional status. See the list below for the required documents.
- Proof of Qualification: Nursing degree, diploma, or equivalent certification.
- Transcript of Training: Official breakdown of the subjects and clinical hours covered during your nursing education.
- Employment History: Record of your professional nursing experience.
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) or OET (Grade B in all sections).
- Valid Passport: Proof of identity and nationality.
- Certificate of Current Professional Status (CCPS): If you are currently registered with a nursing regulatory authority in another country.
Best Places to Work as a Nurse in Ireland
Ireland offers a wide variety of healthcare environments, from major urban hospitals to rural care centers, each providing unique opportunities and experiences. Below are some of the best places to consider:
Dublin
As the capital city, Dublin is home to some of Ireland largest and most advanced hospitals, offering a range of specialisations and cutting-edge technology.
- Top Hospitals: St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Beaumont Hospital.
- Why Choose Dublin?: Excellent career development opportunities, higher salaries, and diverse patient populations
Cork
Ireland second-largest city, Cork, offers a more relaxed pace compared to Dublin but with modern healthcare facilities.
- Top Hospitals: Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital.
- Why Choose Cork?: A mix of urban and rural care, a strong sense of community, and lower cost of living compared to Dublin.
Galway
Galway is known for its vibrant culture and is a growing hub for healthcare professionals.
- Top Hospitals: University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park University Hospital.
- Why Choose Galway?: A mix of city and countryside living with opportunities for work in public and private sectors.
Limerick
Limerick is an important medical hub in the Mid-Western region of Ireland.
- Top Hospitals: University Hospital Limerick.
- Why Choose Limerick?: Affordable living, strong healthcare infrastructure, and opportunities to work in regional specialties.
Rural & Coastal Areas
For nurses seeking a quieter, more relaxed environment, Ireland’s rural areas offer rewarding work in smaller healthcare settings, such as nursing homes and local clinics.
- Locations: Counties Kerry, Donegal, and Waterford.
- Why Choose Rural Areas?: Strong community connections, lower living costs, and a slower pace of life.
Top Training Centers for NMBI Aptitude Test Preparation in Ireland
Here are several training centers and organisations that assist international nurses in preparing for the NMBI aptitude test and meeting other necessary requirements for practicing in Ireland:
1. RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland)
- Location: Dublin
- Programs: The RCSI offers an Aptitude Test for international nurses as part of the registration process with the NMBI. It includes theoretical and practical components to assess clinical competence.
- Website: RCSI Aptitude Test
2. Nurse Training Ireland
- Location: Nationwide
- Programs: This training center offers preparatory courses for the NMBI adaptation programs, which include coaching for both the aptitude test and practical skills assessments.
- Website: Nurse Training Ireland
3. O’Gorman Healthcare Training
- Location: Cork and Dublin
- Programs: Provides preparatory courses for nurses undergoing the adaptation and aptitude programs for registration with NMBI. They focus on clinical skills and theoretical knowledge for the Irish healthcare environment.
- Website: O’Gorman Healthcare Training
4. Global Nurse Academy
- Location: Online
- Programs: Offers flexible, online-based courses designed to prepare international nurses for the NMBI aptitude test and other essential exams required for Irish registration.
- Website: Global Nurse Academy
5. Bluebird Care Academy
- Location: Multiple Locations in Ireland
- Programs: Focuses on adaptation programs and preparation for the aptitude test, particularly for nurses aiming to work in elderly care and home care services in Ireland.
- Website: Bluebird Care Academy
These centers offer training to help international nurses successfully pass the NMBI aptitude test and meet the standards required to practice nursing in Ireland.
Common Questions for Overseas Nurses
How long does it take to register with NMBI??
The process can take several weeks to months depending on the completeness of your application and the assessment of your qualifications. It’s important to start early and ensure all documents are submitted correctly.
Do I need an English Language Test??
Yes, unless you have trained in an English-speaking country. You must provide an IELTS score of 7.0 or above (or equivalent OET score).
What kind of visa will I need?
Non-EU/EEA nurses will require a Critical Skills Employment Permit or a General Employment Permit to work in Ireland. EU/EEA nationals do not need a visa but must still register with the NMBI.
What is the salary range for Nurses in Ireland?
The average salary for a staff nurse in Ireland ranges between €30,000 to €50,000 annually, depending on experience and specialty. Advanced nurse practitioners can earn significantly more.For the most accurate and up-to-date information on nurse salaries in Ireland, we recommend visiting the following websites INMO or HSE.
Will I need to do further training once I arrive?
Some nurses may need to complete an adaptation period or pass an aptitude test to demonstrate their competence in a clinical setting before full registration.
What are the main Healthcare sectors where nurses are in demand?
Ireland has a high demand for nurses in elderly care, intensive care units (ICUs), theatre nursing, mental health, and general hospital nursing.
How We Help
AllSkillRecruitment, we provide:
- Expert Guidance: Assistance with NMBI registration and visa applications.
- Job Matching: We find you the best position based on your qualifications and preferences.
- Relocation Support: Help with accommodation, local orientation, and settling into life in Ireland.
Testimonials from International Nurses
“Staff Nurse”
“AllSkillRecruitment made my transition from the Philippines to Ireland so smooth! They helped me with everything, from the NMBI registration to finding my first job.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
— Maria D
“Healthcare Assistant”
“Thanks to the Team at AllSkillRecruitment, I am now working as a Healthcare Assistant in a Dublin Hospital. Their guidance was invaluable.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
— Alex Martinez
“Healthcare Assistant”
“AllSkillRecruitment made my dream of working in Ireland a reality. They guided me through the registration process and found me a job as a healthcare assistant in no time.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
— Antoine Crawford
Get in Touch
Are you ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Contact us today, and let us help you make the move to Ireland!
Phone: +353 (085)15 222 62( WhatsApp Available)
Email: info@allskillrecruitment.com
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