The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for Nigerian nursing graduates looking to build an international career. With the National Health Service (NHS) facing a shortage of qualified nurses, UK hospitals and care homes are actively recruiting internationally trained nurses — and many offer visa sponsorship.
This guide covers everything Nigerian graduates need to know about UK nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025/2026: eligibility, application process, salaries, top employers, and frequently asked questions.
Why Nigerians Should Consider Nursing Jobs in the UK
- High demand – The NHS projects a shortage of 50,000 nurses, creating strong job security.
- Attractive salaries – Nigerian nurses can earn £28,000 – £40,000 annually in the UK.
- Visa sponsorship – Many NHS Trusts and private employers sponsor the Health and Care Worker visa.
- Career progression – Opportunity to specialize in fields like midwifery, pediatric nursing, or mental health.
- Permanent residency pathway – After 5 years of sponsored work, Nigerian nurses can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Visa Sponsorship for Nigerian Nurses
The Health and Care Worker Visa allows Nigerian nurses to work in the UK under official sponsorship.
Key Benefits of Visa Sponsorship:
- Reduced visa fees compared to other UK work visas.
- Exemption from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Fast-track processing.
- Spouse and children can accompany the nurse and work/study in the UK.
Salary Overview – UK Nurses With Sponsorship
| Nursing Band (NHS Pay Scale) | Annual Salary (£) | Equivalent in Naira (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Band 5 (Entry-level Nurse) | £28,407 – £34,581 | ₦35m – ₦44m |
| Band 6 (Senior Nurse) | £35,392 – £42,618 | ₦44m – ₦54m |
| Band 7 (Specialist Nurse) | £43,742 – £50,056 | ₦55m – ₦64m |
| Private Care Homes | £28,000 – £40,000 | ₦34m – ₦51m |
(Exchange rate assumed: £1 = ₦1,250 for 2025/2026 estimates)
Eligibility Requirements for Nigerian Graduates
To qualify for a UK nursing job with sponsorship, Nigerian graduates must meet:
- Education – Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BNSc).
- Professional Registration – Valid license with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
- English Proficiency – Pass IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 overall) or OET (Occupational English Test).
- NMC UK Registration – Apply to the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for registration.
- Experience – Most employers require at least 1 year of post-graduation nursing experience.
- Health & Character Check – Medical tests and police clearance.
Step-by-Step Process for Nigerian Nurses
- Pass IELTS or OET (English requirement).
- Apply to UK NMC and pass Computer Based Test (CBT).
- Get conditional offer of employment from NHS or private employer.
- Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from employer.
- Apply for Health and Care Worker Visa.
- Travel to the UK and sit the OSCE exam.
- Receive full NMC UK registration after OSCE.
Top UK Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship
| Employer | Type | Sponsorship Offered |
|---|---|---|
| NHS Trust Hospitals | Public healthcare | Yes |
| Bupa Care Homes | Private elderly care | Yes |
| HC-One | Nursing homes | Yes |
| Care UK | Residential care | Yes |
| Priory Group | Mental health hospitals | Yes |
| Circle Health Group | Private hospitals | Yes |
Timeline for 2025/2026 Applicants
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| IELTS/OET Preparation | 2–3 months |
| NMC Application & CBT Exam | 3–6 months |
| Job Search & Offer Letter | 1–2 months |
| Visa Application & Approval | 3–8 weeks |
| Travel & OSCE Training in UK | 2–3 months |
| Full Registration & Start Work | September 2025 – January 2026 |
Cost Breakdown (Nigerian Nurse to UK)
| Requirement | Approx. Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Exam | ₦200,000 |
| NMC UK Application | ₦80,000 |
| CBT Exam | ₦90,000 |
| Visa Application | ₦400,000 |
| TB Test | ₦50,000 |
| Flight Ticket | ₦1,200,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₦2,020,000 |
Note: Many employers reimburse part of these costs, especially IELTS, CBT, and flight tickets.
Comparison: NHS vs Private Employers
| Feature | NHS Trust Hospitals | Private Care Homes |
|---|---|---|
| Salary | Standard NHS pay bands | Negotiated (varies by employer) |
| Sponsorship | Yes | Yes |
| Workload | High (busy hospitals) | Moderate (elderly care) |
| Career Growth | Strong (specialization, promotions) | Limited |
| Benefits | Pension, sick pay, maternity leave | Depends on employer |
Tips for Nigerian Graduates
- Start IELTS preparation early.
- Apply widely – both NHS and private healthcare employers.
- Use official NHS Jobs and GOV.UK approved sponsor list.
- Prepare a professional CV tailored to UK standards.
- Join Nigerian nurse associations in the UK for networking.
FAQs – UK Nursing Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Q1: Can fresh Nigerian graduates apply for UK nursing jobs?
Yes, but most employers prefer at least 1 year of experience before sponsorship.
Q2: Which exam is easier, IELTS or OET?
OET is healthcare-focused and may be easier for nurses, but IELTS is more widely accepted.
Q3: Do UK employers cover flight and visa costs?
Many NHS Trusts and care homes reimburse these expenses after arrival.
Q4: Can nurses bring their families?
Yes. Spouse and children can apply as dependents and have work/study rights.
Q5: What happens after 5 years in the UK?
Nurses can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and later British citizenship.
Summary
For Nigerian nursing graduates, UK nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025/2026 provide a life-changing opportunity. With strong demand, competitive salaries, and the chance to bring family along, the UK is one of the best destinations for nurses.
By meeting eligibility requirements, passing IELTS/OET, and completing the NMC process, Nigerian graduates can confidently secure employment in NHS hospitals or private care facilities.