NMC changes rules for non-EU midwives

By Hollie Ewers on 25 September 2018 NMC - Nursing and Midwifery Council Employment Midwives

Midwives and nurses from outside the EU can now apply to work in the UK immediately after qualifying.

Until today, non-EU midwives and nurses had to work for at least 12 months after qualifying before being allowed to apply for jobs in the UK.

This rule has now been changed by the NMC and brought in line with the rule for EU midwives and nurses.

However, all those applying to work in the UK from outside the EU will still be required to pass the NMC’s stringent test to show they’re safe to work. 

And they must be able to show that they can communicate effectively in English.

The NMC has also introduced improved guidance and supporting materials for applicants so that they can be as well prepared as possible to show that they meet the regulator’s requirements.

NMC director of registration and revalidation Emma Broadbent said: ‘More than 65,000 midwives and nurses from outside the EU deliver first class care to millions of people across the UK every year and they are a vital part of our health and care workforce.

‘This change will remove an unnecessary barrier, making it as simple and straightforward as possible for highly skilled midwifery and nursing staff to join the workforce.’