How EU Nurses Can Register with NMBI and Work in Ireland
This comprehensive guide explains the full process for EU-qualified nurses who want to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) and begin working in Ireland’s healthcare system. It covers eligibility, required documents, registration steps, and practical tips to help you complete your application smoothly.
1. Why register with NMBI?
All nurses and midwives must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland to legally practice in the country. NMBI registration ensures your qualifications are officially recognised and confirms that you meet Ireland’s professional standards for safe and competent practice.
2. Check if you qualify (EU-Trained Nurses)
If you completed your nursing or midwifery training in an EU or EEA country, you can apply through the “Qualified in the EU” route. You must hold a valid qualification recognised in your home country. In some cases, you may also be required to provide proof of English language proficiency, depending on your educational and professional background.
3. Create your MyNMBI account
All applications are submitted online through MyNMBI. After creating your account:
Select “Qualified in the EU” as your application route.
Complete the online form with your personal, educational and professional details.
Based on your information, NMBI will place you in Group 1 (G1) or Group 2 (G2), depending on how your qualifications align with Irish standards.
4. Prepare and upload your documents
Before submitting your application, collect all required certified documents, such as:
Passport or national ID;
Nursing/midwifery qualification certificate;
Transcript of training;
Proof of current or past registration in your home country;
Certificate of Good Standing;
Certified translations for any documents not in English.
Make sure all documents meet NMBI’s certification requirements to avoid delays.
5. Pay the fee and wait for assessment
Once all documents are uploaded, pay the recognition fee. NMBI will then assess your application and will either:
Approve it,
Request additional information, or
Outline compensation measures (rare for EU applicants whose training usually aligns with EU directives).
6. Apply for registration
After your qualifications are officially recognised, move to the registration stage inside MyNMBI:
Upload any remaining documents;
Complete the required declarations;
Pay the registration fee.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your NMBI registration number, allowing you to legally work as a nurse or midwife in Ireland.
7. After registration
With your NMBI registration complete, you can begin applying for nursing roles across Ireland. Remember:
NMBI registration must be renewed annually;
You must meet Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements each year.
Quick checklist
Create a MyNMBI account;
Select “Qualified in the EU” route;
Gather certified copies of all required documents;
Upload documents + pay recognition fee;
Wait for your assessment result;
Complete the registration step + pay final fee;
Start your nursing career in Ireland.
How Vitae Professionals Can Support You
At Vitae Professionals, we support EU nurses throughout the entire recruitment and relocation process. From guiding you through your NMBI registration to preparing you for interviews and helping you secure the right role in Ireland, our team ensures a smooth, confident transition into your new career.
