International recruitment

Stay up to date with international recruitment and learn how to build and support your workforce from overseas.

The latest news, guidance and updates on international recruitment in the NHS can be found here.

Join the International Recruitment Network

By joining the IRN you will; have access to our bi-monthly network meetings and be a key contact to receive invitations, such as to participate in consultations or feedback on information you are experiencing in the system.

Latest news

News

Response to the consultation on Standard Occupational Classification 2020 revisions

Read a summary of the key messages from our submission to the consultation.

12 May 2026

News

ONS launches consultation on Standard Occupational Classification 2020 (SOC2020) revisions

The Office for National Statistics has opened a consultation on updates to the SOC2020 coding framework.

2 April 2026

News

Medical Training Initiative scheme closure

NHS England has made the decision to end the current MTI scheme.

31 March 2026

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Code of Practice recruitment agency list

Here you can find a list of recruitment agencies that operate in accordance with the revised Code of Practice for the international recruitment of healthcare professionals.

Access the list

Latest resources

An office worker using multiple screens.

Guidance

Repayment Clauses Guidance

Guidance for reclaiming expenses from people recruited from overseas.

9 June 2026

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Guidance

Medical Training Initiative

Guidance relating to the Medical Training Initiative. We describe the scheme, how it fits into the points-based immigration system and the NHS.

1 April 2026

Guidance

International Retention Toolkit

Actions employers can take to ensure internationally recruited staff will want to stay, thrive and build lasting careers in the NHS.

21 November 2025

Case Study

How LED induction can support international medical graduates

Find out how Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust invested in its LED workforce to improve the induction process.

15 October 2025

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International Recruitment Toolkit

Take a look at our toolkit focused on overseas recruitment into the NHS, offering advice, guidance and examples of good practice.

Read the guide

Code of practice resources

Ethical Recruiters List

A list of recruitment organisations, agencies, and collaborations that operate in accordance with the revised Code of Practice.

Code of Practice

Ensuring ethical international recruitment practices operate within health and social care and adherence to the WHO Global Code of Practice.

Application process for the Ethical Recruiters List

Information on the application process for the Ethical Recruiters List, how the list is monitored, and the appeals procedure.

Code of Practice quick guide

A quick guide to support your understanding of the Code of Practice for the International Recruitment of Health and Social Care Personnel

Find out more

Subscribe to the Recruitment and Retention Bulletin

Sign up to our bi-monthly bulletin sharing guidance, resources and other relevant content to support employers with their recruitment and retention of staff.

Learn more and sign up

Key International Recruitment Content

Article

EU Settlement Scheme

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

13 April 2026

Article

Support information for international nurses and midwives

This page provides a collection of national resources and guidance to support your international nurses and midwives.

9 June 2025

Article

eVisas and what they mean for recruitment

The phased roll out of online immigration status will bring changes to international recruitment and right to work checks.

28 November 2025

Guidance

Quick guide: Code of Practice for International Recruitment

A quick guide to support your understanding of the Code of Practice for the International Recruitment of Health and Social Care Personnel

27 March 2025

International Retention Toolkit

Find out more about actions that employers can take to ensure internationally recruited staff will want to stay, thrive and build lasting careers in the NHS.

Take a look at our International Retention Toolkit

Contact us

International Recruitment

International recruitment team

The international recruitment team sits in the workforce supply programme.