Documents Needed to Switch from Health Care Assistant to Nurse in the UK

Are you an international Health Care Assistant (HCA) in the UK looking to transition into a registered nurse role? Making the switch is a major step forward in your healthcare career, but it requires the right documentation. This guide breaks down all the essential documents you need to successfully switch from HCA to a nurse while on a UK Health and Care Worker visa.

Why Make the Switch?

Many internationally trained Health Care Assistants have nursing qualifications from their home country or are in the process of becoming registered nurses in the UK. Moving into a nursing role not only increases your salary and responsibilities but also improves your long-term career prospects in the UK healthcare system.

Can You Switch from HCA to Nurse on a Health and Care Visa?

Yes, you can switch from a Health Care Assistant role to a nurse while staying in the UK, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and your new employer offers sponsorship under the nurse occupation code (2231).

Key Documents Required to Switch from HCA to Nurse

Below is a checklist of the essential documents you’ll need to transition smoothly from an Health Care Assistant to a nurse:

1. Valid Passport and Current Visa

You must have:

A valid passport
Your current Health and Care Worker visa details

2. NMC Pin or Registration Confirmation

To work as a nurse in the UK, you must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

If you’re fully registered, provide your NMC PIN number.
If you’re in the process, show confirmation of registration or a decision letter from the NMC.

3. Updated Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your new employer must issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) under the nurse job code (2231).

It must state your new job title, salary, and start date.
The salary must meet the threshold for nurses (typically £26,200+ or £13.84/hour as of 2024).

4. Proof of English Language Proficiency

You must prove your English skills through one of the following:

IELTS Academic: Overall 7.0, with 6.5 minimum in writing
OET: Grade B in all sections
Proof of studying in English in a majority-English speaking country

5. TB Test Certificate (If Applicable)

If you’re switching from a visa that did not previously require a TB test and you’re from a listed country, you may need to provide a valid TB test certificate.

6. Police Clearance Certificate (If Applicable)

If required by the employer or for certain visa routes, provide a criminal record certificate from your home country or any country you lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years.

7. Educational and Professional Qualifications

Provide documents such as:

Nursing degree or diploma certificates
Academic transcripts
NMC decision letter (if undergoing the registration process)

8. Proof of Work Experience (If Required)

Some employers may ask for:

Reference letters
Work experience certificates
Previous employment contracts (especially if applying as an internationally qualified nurse)

9. New Employment Contract

Your employer must provide a signed job offer letter or contract that clearly outlines:

Your job title (Registered Nurse)
Salary
Work location
Sponsorship details

10. Visa Application Documents

When applying for a new Skilled Worker visa as a nurse, you will also need:

Immigration Health Surcharge payment
Visa application form (online)
Biometric information (photo and fingerprints)

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Start NMC registration early: The process can take several months.
Inform your current employer: Some may help with the transition or refer you to nursing positions.
Keep all documents updated: Outdated TB tests, expired IELTS results, or missing transcripts can delay your visa process.
Check the latest visa requirements on the UK Home Office website or consult an immigration advisor.

Conclusion

Switching from an Health Care Assistant to a nurse on a Health and Care Worker visa is a great career move, but preparation is key. Ensuring you have all the right documents will make the process faster and smoother. If you’ve already passed your English test and are close to NMC registration, you’re well on your way.

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Victoria Ojetunde

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