The UK government has recently published a new white paper outlining significant proposed changes to its immigration policies. These adjustments aim to tighten immigration processes, particularly for certain visa categories. However, nurses and healthcare professionals can breathe a sigh of relief — these changes do not currently impact the nursing sector.

At Fortuwest International Training and Education, we’re committed to keeping you updated on policy shifts that could affect your journey to becoming a nurse in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of the latest updates and how they might influence you.

🔍 Key Proposed Changes in the UK Immigration White Paper

The new proposals, if implemented, may introduce the following changes:

• Stricter English language assessment for migrants and their dependents
• Extension of the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) qualification period from 5 to 10 years
• Increased visa application fees and immigration health surcharges
• Temporary suspension of the care worker visa route until 2028
• Reduction in post-study work visa duration from 24 to 18 months

👩‍⚕️ Do These Changes Affect Nurses?

According to the white paper, nurses and doctors are not impacted by these proposed changes. This means the current routes for overseas nurses — including those taking the OET, CBT, and OSCE exams — remain intact.

At Fortuwest International Training and Education, we continue to support international nurses preparing to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK without disruption.

👥 Who Will Be Affected?

While nurses are exempt, the following groups may be impacted by the changes:

• Overseas care workers, due to the temporary visa suspension until 2028
• International students, especially those relying on the post-study work visa, now potentially shortened to 18 months
• Other professionals seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), as the waiting period could increase from 5 to 10 years

🩺 What About the VC-OSCE Route?

The proposed immigration adjustments do not affect the VC-OSCE pathway. This route remains a viable option for internationally trained nurses who wish to complete their Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in the UK using a visitor visa.

While the VC-OSCE route continues to face challenges like limited job vacancies for overseas nurses, the new white paper does not impose further restrictions on this specific pathway.

If you’re planning your UK nursing journey via the VC-OSCE route, Fortuwest International Training and Education can guide you through every step — from visa assistance to OSCE preparation.

🌍 Broader Implications of the Immigration Changes

The government’s proposed changes are likely to have wider effects on UK immigration trends, such as:

• A decline in migration interest due to longer wait times and higher costs
• Frustration among current immigrants, especially those facing a longer path to ILR
• A possible shift of skilled professionals — including nurses — to countries like Australia, which offer more straightforward permanent residency pathways for healthcare workers

🔄 What’s Next?

As the UK government moves forward with these proposals, we will continue to monitor official updates and provide timely guidance for our students and aspiring nurses.

At Fortuwest International Training and Education, our priority is to ensure that you have accurate, up-to-date information and the training needed to succeed in your NMC registration journey.

📣 Stay Informed and Take the Next Step with Fortuwest

If you’re planning to become a registered nurse in the UK and are concerned about immigration changes, don’t navigate this alone. Fortuwest International Training and Education is here to support you every step of the way — from OET/IELTS training, CBT preparation, OSCE coaching, to visa guidance.

📞 Contact Us Today

Reach out now for expert support tailored to your UK nursing career goals:

📱 Call us:
+44 7778 077173
+44 7426 995777

📧 Email: wecare@fortuwestinternational.co.uk
📍 Visit us: 70, Cove Road, Farnborough, GU14 0EN

Fortuwest International Training and Education – Your trusted partner on the path to UK nursing success.