International Recruitment Network

We work to keep you informed about the latest developments in international recruitment and how you can build your workforce from overseas.
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Our International Recruitment Network (IRN) is a space for those involved with international recruitment in their organisation to keep up to date with the latest developments. It’s a safe environment to share current experiences and best practices, and network with colleagues working across the NHS. 

By joining the IRN you will: 

  • have access to our bi-monthly network meetings 
  • be a key contact to receive invitations, such as to participate in consultations or feedback on information you are experiencing in the system 
  • find out about the latest updates to international recruitment in the NHS.
    • NHS trusts (including acute, community, mental health, learning disabilities, ambulance, and integrated care systems).
    • Individuals leading in the areas of international recruitment and/or retention, pastoral care, pre-registration preparation, sponsorship responsibilities etc. 
    • Other human resources professionals supporting international recruitment or retention.
    • International recruitment to a variety of roles includes nursing, AHPs, midwives, medical, and biomedical scientists.
    • International retention.
    • Immigration policy, eVisa roll out, and sponsorship duties.
    • Code of Practice and ethical international recruitment.

Recruitment agencies/organisations (including those on the Ethical Recruiters List), individuals, or other organisations are not eligible to join. 

If you would like to join, please fill out the expression of interest sheet below and a member of the international recruitment team will assess your application. 

Sign up to our network

By joining the IRN you will:

  • have access to our bi-monthly network meetings that are a safe space for other HR professionals working in international recruitment to share best practices, challenges and learning 
  • be a key contact to receive invitations, such as to participate in consultations or feedback on information you are experiencing in the system 
  • find out about the latest updates to international recruitment in the NHS.

Latest news and resources

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News

Changes to EU Settlement Scheme

A new process will automatically convert as many eligible pre-settled status holders to settled status as possible, without a further application.

20 January 2025
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Article

EU Settlement Scheme

Find details and resources to support European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) staff.

20 January 2025
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News

Increases to immigration service charges announced

Proposals laid before Parliament aim to increase fees for Certificates of Sponsorship to £525, applying to new and renewal of visa applications.

17 January 2025
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Article

Impacts of the changes to the UK immigration policy

Learn more on UK immigration policy for those on a Health and Care Visa or Skilled Worker Visa.

17 January 2025
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What our members say about the International Recruitment Network:

“This network has collectively improved the experience for internationally educated nurse (IEN) recruitment - sharing best practice and informative updates, especially in terms of visa. Also been able to reach out to the network for advice.”; IRN member, November 2024

“It's really beneficial to discuss current challenges with other Trusts, you can learn from others. It really helps that the leads can take queries away to contacts at external organisations and feedback to the group - this saves various people trying to contact these organisations for the same issues etc.” - IRN member, November 2024

International Recruitment

View the latest news, guidance and updates on international recruitment in the NHS,

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