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Your Guide to Working as a Nurse in Ireland

Updated: Dec 12, 2025

Navigating the Registration Process


Before you can work as a nurse in Ireland, you must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).


NMBI Registration Steps


  1. Create a MyNMBI account and submit an application.

  2. Upload documents such as identity, transcripts, nursing license verification, experience, and English test results.

  3. Undergo a qualification assessment by NMBI.

  4. Receive a Decision Letter (DL) stating whether you:

    Can register immediately

    Must complete an adaptation period

    Sit the RCSI Aptitude Test


Your decision letter will determine your next steps.


English Language Requirements


Unless you trained in an exempt country, NMBI requires English test results before issuing your Decision Letter. This is a crucial step in the process.


Accepted Exams


  • IELTS Academic: Overall 7.0 (no band < 6.5)

  • OET (Nursing): Minimum Grade B in all subtests

  • PTE Academic: Equivalent score accepted by NMBI



Adaptation vs Aptitude: What’s the Difference?


Many overseas nurses are unsure whether they should do Adaptation or the RCSI Aptitude Test. Let’s clarify this.


Adaptation Programme (Clinical Supervision)


  • A supervised placement in an Irish hospital

  • Typically lasts 6–12 weeks

  • Limited places and long waiting lists

  • Must be signed off as competent by your clinical supervisor


RCSI Aptitude Test


  • A structured exam run by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

  • No clinical placement required

  • Faster and easier to schedule compared to Adaptation

  • Completed over two days in Dublin


Most nurses choose the Aptitude route because it is quicker, more accessible, and avoids long Adaptation waiting lists.


RCSI Aptitude Test Structure


Day 1 – MCQ Theory Exam


  • 150 multiple-choice questions

  • Duration: 2.5 hours

  • Covers nursing care, medications, ethics, patient safety, infection control

  • Must pass to progress to OSCE stations


Day 2 – OSCE Clinical Skills Exam


10 stations assessing:


  • Patient assessment

  • Vital signs

  • Medication administration

  • Wound care

  • Aseptic technique

  • Communication

  • Documentation

  • Patient safety

  • Care planning

  • Infection prevention


Each station is marked separately. Unsuccessful stations can usually be retaken.


HSE Reimbursement Package for Overseas Nurses


To support international recruitment, the HSE (Health Service Executive) offers a generous reimbursement scheme for non-EU and overseas nurses relocating to Ireland. This package helps reduce the financial burden during the registration and relocation process.


What the HSE Covers


Eligible nurses may receive reimbursement for:


  • NMBI application fee

  • Assessment fee

  • English exam fee (IELTS/OET/PTE)

  • RCSI Aptitude Test fee or Adaptation costs

  • Visa application costs

  • Flight ticket to Ireland

  • Travel from the airport to your accommodation

  • One month of free, HSE-provided accommodation (in many cases)


The exact amount may vary, but nurses commonly receive €2,000–€3,000+ in reimbursements depending on their expenses.


Who Qualifies?


You must:


  • Be recruited into an HSE hospital or HSE-funded service

  • Successfully complete the required steps (Aptitude or Adaptation)

  • Provide valid proof/receipts of expenses


This initiative helps nurses transition to Ireland more comfortably and reduces out-of-pocket costs during the registration process.


Relocating to Ireland After Registration


Once you pass Adaptation or Aptitude, NMBI registers you and issues your PIN. You can then begin working as a Registered Nurse in Ireland.


Additional Steps


You will also complete:


  • Visa/permit processing

  • Employment onboarding

  • Occupational health checks


Ireland offers strong career progression, competitive salaries, and excellent opportunities for internationally educated nurses.


If you’re preparing for the RCSI Aptitude Test, the right guidance can make all the difference—especially since candidates are allowed only two attempts.


Our comprehensive RCSI Aptitude Test Course is designed to boost your confidence, giving you structured preparation, expert support, and a significantly higher chance of passing on your first try. Start your journey with us and set yourself up for success.


For any queries about the course, send an email to : contact@healthpathireland.com




 
 
 

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