FAQ'sI want to work as a nurse in the United Kingdom, how do I apply?A candidate can make their initial inquiry in a number of different ways, Professional Connections processes applications through our: E-mail: nurses@profco.com, and Over the Phone: From
For an initial assessment, Profco will need a detailed CV. You should commence the process by registering as a nurse, mental health nurse, midwife or sick children's nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) . What does Band 5, 6 and 7 mean?Am I eligible to register in The UK and apply for a job through Profco?The requirements for eligibility for registration and application vary depending on your education and work experience. Nurses trained in EU countries can apply immediately after graduating from University, providing that you have received the nurse or midwife registration from the training country and the course also meets the EU Directive. Nurses trained in non-EU countries are required to have at least 24 months post-registration work experience from a hospital before we will consider your application for employment. How will Professional Connections assist me?
I want to go to The UK ASAP. Is that possible?For a nurse based in the UK and NMC registered the process is four to six weeks. For European nurses if you are already NMC registered it will take four to six weeks. If you are not NMC registered then it will take 3- 4 months. For Non EU the process takes 6-8 months. What paperwork will I have to complete?There are a few steps 1. Initial application paperwork
2. At InterviewYou will have to do a literacy and numeracy test followed by an interview which will last 20- 30 minutes and you will be asked general and clinical questions. 3. Post interview
Sounds like a lot of paperwork?Yes there is and that is why you need our assistance to guide you through each part of the recruitment process. We have helped thousands of nurses so we know how to get you through it all! Can you tell me about visas for my family?You mentioned I need a detailed CV, how much detail is required?When applying for a post outside your own country, those reading your CV may not be familiar with your hospital or the system of nursing in your country. Therefore it is important to describe your working environment and the duties you carry out at work. Professional Connections will give you a template and sample to follow. How do I register as a nurse in the UK?See our section Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) I am not sure whether I want to apply or not, can I have information first?Yes, much of the information you require is on this website, however please call us and we will discuss your options further to help you decide. How long do I have to commit to?We recruit to "perm" posts so a minumum of one year is expected. However all posts are permanent posts so you can stay as long as you want. If you are Non EU passport holder you will need to maintain your visa. How long will the process take?EU candidates
Non EU Candidates
Will there be housing for me / my family on arrival?Yes, however initially, you may have to take what is available at the time, and may not be able to select the location or type of accommodation. Depending on availability and circumstances accomodation is arranged by either the client hospital or Professional Connections through an on-site agent in the UK. Who pays for the housing?You will pay the rent for the housing but as always Professional Connections will be on hand for detailed information and advice on the best way to settle into your new locality. Sometimes the Hospitals will pay the first month rent if you are planning to stay for one year. There is a penatly clause that you would need to repay these costs if you fail to complete at least one year with the Trust. This benefit varies from Trust to Trust you will be informed on any benefits at enquiry stage. What happens if I want to work in another hospital after I arrive?If you are an EU National it is easy to move hospitals however you should complete the time you committed to. For Non EU your new employer would have to sponsor your work permit and visa. Will my children get free schooling?State schools www.education.gov.uk Private schools www.universitiesuk.ac.uk University www.ucas.ac.uk I am going alone with my child. Is there childcare available?Some hospitals have childcare facilities, however, there can be a waiting list for places. Each candidate's personal circumstances are reviewed prior to arrival and a personalised and detailed plan for UK integration is outlined. After the personalised integration plan is formed it is our job to ensure that everything is in place for the candidate when they arrive. Will my partner be able to get a job?Do I get a free flight?Generally Trusts will pay your mobilisation flight. Sometimes a return flight is paid. Never are holiday flights paid. Each Trust will have its own benefit package your Profco recruiter will advise you the benefits of each post. Do my family get free flights?No, you get the same benefits package whether you bring a family or not. Do I have to take an English Language test?EU applicantsYou will be tested at interview that your English language skills are good enough for safe and effective practise. You will be given a literacy test and numeracy test at interview. Non EU applicantsAll non EU trained applicants to the nurses or midwives part of the register must complete and provide evidence of the International English Language Test (IELTS) before submitting their application to the NMC. You must complete the academic version of the IELTS test and achieve:
We will not accept applicants who score lower than this standard. Frequently asked questions about NMC IELTS requirements Further information about IELTS can be obtained from www.ielts.org Do I have to pay for medical care?What is the National Health Service (NHS)?The NHS is the UK's state health service and provides medical treatment through three main routes:
Dealing with medical emergenciesIf you need immediate medical assistance (for example, because of an accident) telephone 999. The call is free. Am I entitled to free NHS treatment?The following NHS treatment is free to anyone:
EEA national students and any accompanying family members should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in their country of residence. This form entitles the holder and his or her family to full NHS treatment Reciprocal Health Care AgreementsThe UK has reciprocal health care agreements with the following countries:
Reciprocal health care agreements will usually cover hospital treatment although you should check with your home country health authority for full details. Please note that this list can change, please visit the Department of Health website for up to date information. I am entitled to NHS treatment, what does the NHS provide free of charge?If you are entitled to NHS treatment, you will be able to use a GP (doctor) and other GP services (eg visiting a clinic) for free. You will also be able to get treatment in a hospital (both emergency and non-emergency). You may need to pay for some GP services (eg certain vaccinations), dental and optical treatment, medicines prescribed by your GP or prescription medicines. Some groups can get free prescriptions (see UKCISA guide below). If you cannot get free NHS prescriptions and you will be receiving prescriptions on a regular basis, you could reduce your costs by purchasing a prepayment certificate. This is a certificate that allows you to make unlimited number of NHS prescriptions. If you think you will have to pay for more than 5 prescription items in 4 months or 14 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a prepayment certificate (PPC). You can get a prepayment certificate application form from most Post Offices or apply for a prepayment certificate online. You may also be able to claim for help towards health costs on the grounds of low income. Ask your GP surgery for a HC1 form (also available at ISAS and the ARC). Health benefits are not classed as 'public funds'. Your immigration status will not be affected if you claim and receive any help with health costs. Can I bring my dog or cat?How much will the process cost me?Coming soon Do you provide a meet and greet service?Yes every candidate and their family is offered a meet and greet service. This can be by a profco representative or a Trust representative. What we do for you?
Last updated: 12.05.2011 |






