Will I have to sit the aptitude test?

NMBI decides when it recognises your qualification: you may register outright, complete a Period of Adaptation and Assessment with an employer, or pass the RCSI aptitude test.

What does the aptitude test fee cover?

Theory test then OSCE; two attempts at each are included in the fee.

Is the aptitude test cheaper through an employer?

Yes: €2,500 through an employer with an agreement.

How long is the period of adaptation?

6 to 12 weeks with an employer.

Do I need my English test before I apply?

No. Two stages, recognition of the qualification and then registration; English is required at the registration stage, so recognition can start before the test is passed.

Who pays for the permit, and can my family come?

Usually the employer. Immediate family reunification; Stamp 4 after about two years.

← Nurses in Ireland outcomeOS

🇮🇪 Ireland · Nurses

How much does NMBI registration cost for nurses trained outside the EU?

NMBI charges €350 to recognise a nursing qualification from outside the EU and €145 to register you, and if it asks for the RCSI aptitude test, that costs €2,800, usually paid by your employer.

Checked 23 Oct 2026 · NMBI ↗

Fees

Step	Fee
Recognition of your qualificationYou pay	€350
Critical Skills Employment PermitYour employer usually pays	€1,000
RCSI aptitude test, if NMBI asks for itYour employer usually pays	€2,800
Registration	€145
Total, with the aptitude test	€4,295

Good to know

Will I have to sit the aptitude test?: NMBI decides when it recognises your qualification: you may register outright, complete a Period of Adaptation and Assessment with an employer, or pass the RCSI aptitude test.
What does the aptitude test fee cover?: Theory test then OSCE; two attempts at each are included in the fee.
Is the aptitude test cheaper through an employer?: Yes: €2,500 through an employer with an agreement.
How long is the period of adaptation?: 6 to 12 weeks with an employer.
Do I need my English test before I apply?: No. Two stages, recognition of the qualification and then registration; English is required at the registration stage, so recognition can start before the test is passed.
Who pays for the permit, and can my family come?: Usually the employer. Immediate family reunification; Stamp 4 after about two years.

What to do next

Tell us where you trained and what you have done so far, and we show which of NMBI's steps you have left, with each fee and how long it takes.

Sources

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