The Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) is the primary healthcare provider in Gibraltar, and for European nurses looking to work there, the process involves several steps. Here’s a guide on how to register and work as a nurse with the GHA:
1. Understand the Requirements
- Qualifications: Ensure you have a recognized nursing degree from an EU/EEA country.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English if your nursing education was not in English. This is often required through IELTS or OET.
2. Registration with the Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board (GNRB)
- Application Form: Obtain and complete the application form for registration from the Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board.
- Documentation: Submit the following documents:
- Passport or national ID
- Birth certificate
- Nursing degree certificate and transcripts
- Certificate of current professional status from your home country (a verification of your nursing license)
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate from your country of residence and any other country where you have lived for more than six months in the past five years
3. Health and Character Checks
- Health Declaration: Provide a health declaration form signed by a medical practitioner.
- Good Character: Submit references from previous employers or educational institutions to attest to your good character.
4. Submit Your Application
- Submit Application: Send your completed application form and all required documents to the Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board for assessment.
- Assessment Fee: Pay any applicable fees for the assessment of your application.
5. Wait for Assessment
- Application Review: The Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board will review your application and documents to ensure they meet the required standards.
- Further Requirements: You may be required to undergo an adaptation period or further training if your qualifications are not deemed equivalent to Gibraltar's standards.
6. Receive Decision
- Decision Letter: After the assessment, you will receive a decision letter. If successful, you will be granted registration to practice as a nurse in Gibraltar.
7. Apply for Jobs with the GHA
- Job Search: Look for nursing vacancies on the Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) website or other job boards.
- Application: Apply for nursing positions with the GHA, submitting your CV, cover letter, and proof of your registration with the GNRB.
8. Interview and Employment
- Interview: If shortlisted, attend an interview with the GHA.
- Job Offer: Upon a successful interview, you will receive a job offer from the GHA.
- Employment Contract: Review and sign the employment contract.
9. Relocation and Induction
- Relocation: Make arrangements to move to Gibraltar.
- Induction: Attend any induction programs provided by the GHA to familiarize yourself with local healthcare practices and policies.
10. Maintain Your Registration
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Engage in ongoing professional development activities to maintain your nursing skills and knowledge.
- Annual Renewal: Renew your registration annually with the Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board, ensuring you meet any CPD requirements.
Additional Tips:
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the GHA and Gibraltar Nurses Registration Board websites for any updates on requirements or processes.
- Networking: Join professional nursing networks and associations in Gibraltar to stay informed and connected with the local nursing community.
By following these steps, European nurses can successfully register and work with the Gibraltar Health Authority.