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How to Become a Nurse in Ireland

Last verified 21 Jul 2026· Published 21 Apr 2026

The route to registered nursing

To practise as a nurse in Ireland you must hold an approved nursing qualification and be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). The standard route is a four-year honours degree (BSc in Nursing) in one of the disciplines: General, Children's & General (integrated), Mental Health, Intellectual Disability, or Midwifery.

Step by step (school leavers)

  • Apply through the CAO for a BSc (Hons) Nursing programme at one of the universities/colleges, choosing your discipline.
  • Complete the four-year degree, which combines academic study with supervised clinical placements.
  • Register with NMBI in your division on graduating.
  • Apply for Staff Nurse posts — most HSE campaigns recruit to panels.

Internationally-qualified nurses

If you trained abroad, you apply to NMBI for registration; depending on your qualification you may complete an assessment and a period of adaptation/aptitude before registering. Check the current process directly with NMBI.

Pay and progression

See the current Staff Nurse salary scale. From Staff Nurse, career paths include Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Nurse Manager (CNM1–3) and Advanced Nurse Practitioner — each with its own pay scale.

Find nursing jobs

Browse live HSE nursing & midwifery jobs.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to become a nurse in Ireland?
The standard route is a four-year honours degree (BSc in Nursing) followed by registration with NMBI.
Do I need to register with NMBI?
Yes — you must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) in your division to practise as a nurse in Ireland.
Can internationally-qualified nurses work in Ireland?
Yes — apply to NMBI for registration. Depending on your qualification you may need an assessment and a period of adaptation before registering. Confirm the current process with NMBI.

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