Nurses and midwives who practise in Ireland must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). Registration is separate from immigration permission.

NMBI role

NMBI maintains the professional register and assesses applicants trained outside Ireland.

Qualification recognition

NMBI describes qualification recognition and registration as two distinct processes for overseas applicants. Qualification recognition compares the applicant's education with Irish standards.

Registration

After recognition requirements are satisfied, the applicant proceeds through the registration requirements applicable to the relevant division.

Registration divisions

Ireland's register contains different nursing and midwifery divisions. The division matters because education and competence requirements are not interchangeable.

Required evidence

Applicants should follow the current NMBI applicant guide for identity, qualification, registration and other required documentation.

Possible compensation measures

For some applicants trained outside Ireland, NMBI may require a compensation measure where training differs substantially. Current NMBI guidance states that General Nurses and Psychiatric Nurses who are required to complete a compensation measure may have a choice between adaptation and an aptitude test; other divisions can have different arrangements.

A job offer does not replace NMBI registration. Applicants should understand their qualification-recognition and registration status before assuming eligibility to practise.

Official-source checklist

Verify the current NMBI guide, your target division, document requirements, any compensation measure and registration outcome directly with NMBI.

Sources