How African Nurses Can Move to the UK and Bring Their Families (2026 Guide)

African nurses play an important role in keeping the UK healthcare system running.

Hospitals across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland rely heavily on skilled nurses from Africa to fill critical shortages.

As of early 2025, more than 850,000 professionals are registered with the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Sub-Saharan African nationals make up about 4.7% of the total NHS workforce, a number that continues to grow each year.

International nurses now account for nearly 40% of new joiners to the UK nursing register.

This guide explains, step by step, how African nurses can move to the UK and legally bring their families with them.

Step 1: Professional Certification (NMC Registration)

Before you can work as a nurse in the UK, you must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

The first step is a self-assessment on the official NMC website to confirm your eligibility.

English Language Requirement

You must prove your English ability through one of the following exams.

For IELTS, you need an overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.5 in writing.

For OET, you need a Grade B, with C+ accepted in writing.

Test of Competence (ToC)

The Test of Competence has two parts.

The Computer Based Test (CBT) is taken in your home country and costs about £83.

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is taken in the UK and costs about £794.

Most NHS employers provide free OSCE training and cover the cost of your first attempt.

Step 2: Financial Planning and Support

Moving to the UK requires some upfront planning.

The good news is that many NHS Trusts offer relocation packages and reimburse major costs.

Estimated Initial Costs

You pay for the CBT while still in your home country.

The OSCE is taken after you arrive in the UK.

Most hospitals reimburse the CBT, OSCE, and visa fees once you start work.

After passing the OSCE, you must pay a final NMC registration fee of £153 to receive your NMC PIN.

Step 3: Legal Requirements (Health and Care Worker Visa)

To work in the UK, you need a Health and Care Worker Visa.

You must first receive a job offer from an approved UK employer.

Your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which you need for your visa application.

Major Visa Benefits

You and your family do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

This saves thousands of pounds compared to other UK visa types.

You will also need a Police Clearance Certificate from your home country.

Step 4: Bringing Your Family (Dependants)

One of the biggest advantages for registered nurses is the right to bring family members.

Your spouse or partner and children under 18 can join you as dependants.

Registered nurses still retain this right under current 2026 UK rules.

Financial Maintenance Requirement

If required, you must show:

• £285 for a partner
• £315 for one child
• £200 for each additional child

This money must be available before applying.

If your employer is A-rated, they can certify maintenance on your CoS.

When this happens, you do not need to show personal bank statements.

Family Benefits in the UK

Your partner can work in almost any profession.

Your children can attend UK state schools at no extra cost.

You must provide legal documents such as marriage and birth certificates.

Many nurses travel alone first, pass the OSCE, secure housing, and then bring their family later.

Step 5: Academic and Clinical Transition

Most UK hospitals provide a preceptorship period for international nurses.

This is a supported transition phase that helps you adapt to UK clinical standards.

You receive guidance, supervision, and extra training during this period.

Nursing degrees from African institutions are generally accepted as equivalent to UK RQF Level 6.

This means you do not need to study again to practice as a nurse.

Final Steps to Success

Once you receive your NMC PIN, you are officially a Registered Nurse in the UK.

You will move onto the Band 5 NHS pay scale.

The starting salary for a Band 5 nurse is above £29,000 per year.

Your previous experience in Africa may place you on a higher pay point.

This career path offers long-term stability and eligibility for permanent residency after five years.