The Complete NMC Registration Process for Nepalese Nurses

Overview of the NMC Registration Journey

Joining the UK nursing register as a Nepali nurse involves several stages: verifying your qualifications, passing English language requirements, completing Part 1 (CBT) and Part 2 (OSCE) of the NMC Test of Competence, and finally being admitted to the register. The entire process typically takes 12–24 months from initial application.

Understanding the full roadmap before you begin will save you time, money, and frustration. Many nurses encounter delays not because of their clinical ability but because of gaps in their documentation or a misunderstanding of the sequence of steps.

Step 1 — Create Your NMC Online Account

Begin by creating an account on the NMC's online registration portal. You will use this account to track your application, upload documents, and communicate with the NMC throughout the process. Keep your login credentials safe and check your account regularly for updates.

Step 2 — Submit Your Application and Documents

You will need to submit: proof of identity (passport), evidence of your nursing qualification (degree certificate, transcripts), a Certificate of Current Professional Status (CCPS) from the Nepal Nursing Council, a character declaration, and evidence of English language proficiency.

English language requirements can be met via OET (minimum Grade B in all four sub-tests), IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 overall with no band below 7.0), or PTE Academic (minimum 65 overall with no communicative skill below 65). Most regulatory bodies accept OET as the preferred option for healthcare professionals.

Step 3 — Receive Your Decision Letter

After reviewing your application, the NMC will send you a decision letter confirming whether you are eligible to proceed to the Test of Competence. This letter also confirms your eligibility to sit the CBT. Processing times vary — currently the NMC aims to process applications within 90 days.

Step 4 — Pass the CBT (Part 1)

Book and sit your Computer-Based Test at a Pearson VUE centre. You can sit the CBT in Kathmandu, which means you can complete this stage before moving to the UK. The CBT is a 120-question multiple-choice exam testing nursing knowledge against UK standards. A pass is required before you can proceed to Part 2.

Step 5 — Secure Employment and a UK Visa

Most Nepali nurses travel to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa sponsored by an NHS trust or private healthcare employer. You will need a job offer from an employer who holds a sponsorship licence before you can apply for the visa. Many NHS trusts actively recruit internationally and run assessment days — some even in Nepal.

Your employer will guide you through the visa application process. Ensure your sponsor code, certificate of sponsorship, and all visa documents are in order before your departure.

Step 6 — Complete the OSCE (Part 2) in the UK

Once in the UK, you will complete the OSCE at one of five approved test centres. This 10-station clinical skills assessment must be passed to join the register. Many employers arrange OSCE preparation as part of their international recruitment programme.

Step 7 — Join the NMC Register

After passing both the CBT and OSCE and satisfying all other requirements (health declaration, good character declaration, NMC fee payment), the NMC will admit you to the register. You will receive your PIN — your UK registration number — which you can use to practise as a registered nurse in the UK.

LIFE Academy supports nurses at every stage of this journey — from OET preparation and CBT study to documentation guidance and application support. Reach out to our team in Bharatpur to get started.