Working as a nurse in the UK from Kenya: the route step by step

The United Kingdom recruits nurses from Kenya, and many Kenyan nurses work in the NHS and in UK care homes. The route is well established but it takes time, money and careful paperwork. This guide sets out the main steps and how to stay safe from fake recruiters.

Requirements change. Always confirm the current rules on the official websites of the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), UK Visas and Immigration, and the Nursing Council of Kenya before you pay for anything.

Who regulates nurses in the UK?

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registers nurses and midwives in the UK. You cannot work as a registered nurse in the UK without NMC registration, whatever an agent tells you.

What English test score do you need?

The NMC accepts the IELTS Academic test or the Occupational English Test (OET). On the NMC's published requirements, you need IELTS 7 in reading, listening and speaking and 6.5 in writing, or OET grade B (350 or above) in reading, listening and speaking and C+ (300 or above) in writing. Many Kenyan nurses find OET easier because it is built around healthcare situations.

What are the main steps to NMC registration?

1. Check your eligibility on the NMC website, including your qualification and practice experience.
2. Pass the English test at the required scores.
3. Apply to the NMC online and complete the eligibility assessment.
4. Pass the computer-based test (CBT), a test of nursing knowledge, which can be taken at approved centres outside the UK.
5. Get a job offer from a UK employer that can sponsor your visa.
6. Apply for a Health and Care Worker visa through UK Visas and Immigration.
7. Pass the OSCE, a practical clinical examination taken in the UK, usually after you arrive and with your employer's support.
8. Join the NMC register and start working as a registered nurse.

Many NHS trusts and care providers support international nurses through these steps, and some pay for parts of the process. Ask each employer exactly what they cover.

What will the Nursing Council of Kenya need?

Overseas regulators usually ask the Nursing Council of Kenya to confirm your registration and good standing. Keep your Kenyan licence current while you apply, and check the Council's process for verification and certificates of good standing on its official website.

How do you avoid fake nursing recruitment agents?

• Never pay an agent for a job offer. Genuine UK employers do not sell jobs.
• Check that a Kenyan recruitment agency is registered with the National Employment Authority (NEA).
• Check the employer yourself on its official website, and confirm the vacancy directly.
• Be suspicious of promises of guaranteed visas, unusually high salaries or skipping the NMC process.

Our guide to spotting fake jobs and recruitment scams covers the warning signs in detail.

Should you build experience in Kenya first?

Yes, if you can. Overseas employers look for solid post-registration experience, and specialties such as critical care, theatre, emergency and mental health are in demand. Time spent building that experience, and keeping your CV up to date, makes every later step easier. Browse nursing jobs in Kenya to find your next role.