If you’re a Nigerian nurse trained overseas, you’ll need to apply for NMCN foreign trained nurse basic indexing before practicing at home. This process ensures your qualification is accepted in Nigeria through the Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). We’ll walk you through every stage with verified links, so you can proceed accurately.
What Is Foreign-Trained Nurse Basic Indexing?
Foreign Trained Nurse Basic Indexing is the official process where NMCN evaluates and indexes the credentials of nurses trained outside Nigeria. Completion is mandatory before professional registration, licensure, and eventual practice in Nigeria
Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria
The Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) was originally established under Decree 89 of 1979 and now operates under Act Cap. N143, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The council regulates nursing education, examinations, indexing, and licensure. Its Indexing Division oversees the profiling and indexing of all nursing students, including foreign‑trained applicants.
Why You Should Apply for NMCN Foreign Trained Nurse Basic Indexing
- Legal requirement for licensure in Nigeria
- Ensures your foreign credentials are officially recognized
- Grants you an index number required for professional exams and orientation.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for NMCN Foreign-Trained Nurse Basic Indexing
Here are the steps required to follow when applying for NMCN Foreign-Trained Nurse Basic indexing
Document Preparation
Gather and scan these documents in JPEG format, observing size limits (200 KB unless otherwise stated):
- Colour passport photograph (white background, ≤15 KB, 130×182 px)
- O’level certificates (five credits including English, math, Biology, chemistry, and Physics)
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Foreign nursing registration/license
- Academic transcripts sent directly from institution
- Letter of good standing from issuing nursing board
- Verification form (provided by NMCN) filled and forwarded via your foreign board to NMCN
- Federal Ministry of Education authentication of institution/certificates.
Apply on the NMCN Portal
Go to the official Foreign Trained Nurse application portal: Apply for FTN Indexing
• Fill out the online form accurately (no initials allowed; use full names).
• Select three preferred institutions for adaptation placement.
• Upload required evaluation letter from the Federal Ministry of Education to proceed
School Clearance & Council Verification
- Await review and clearance by NMCN based on your foreign certificate status.
- Council will liaise with your foreign nursing board and education authorities for verification and good standing confirmation.
Pay Fees via Remita
- After approval, pay the non‑refundable application/exam fee of ₦45,500 (foreign‑trained application)
- Additionally, pay ₦8,191.92 for foreign‑trained nurse indexing once cleared for indexing.
- Use the NMCN portal payment interface (Remita). Save your e-receipt with Validation Number.
Screening, Orientation & Examination
- Attend a screening interview at the venue specified by NMCN.
- If successful, undergo a minimum of six months orientation programme at an approved Nigerian institution.
- Then, sit the Professional Qualifying Examination. Only successful candidates proceed to registration/licensing
Final Registration & Licence Issuance
Upon passing the exam and orientation report approval:
- Submit online registration/licencing application
- Pay required licencing fees
- Receive official NMCN nurse registration and licence notification.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Incomplete verification forms or missing transcripts: Start document processing early to avoid delays.
- Using wrong fee amounts: Application and indexing fees are separate. Confirm amounts via official FAQs.
- Incorrect image formats or sizes: Resize before upload to match guidelines.
- Missing good‑standing letter: This must come directly from your foreign nursing board to NMCN.
To apply for NMCN foreign trained nurse basic indexing, prepare your documents, apply via the official portal, pay the right fees, complete screening and orientation, and finally register and obtain your NMCN licence. This comprehensive, SEO‑friendly guide equips Nigerian nurses trained abroad with the necessary tools to navigate the process accurately in 2025.
Your journey toward regulatory recognition in Nigeria begins here best wishes as you transition from foreign qualification to practice-ready Nigerian nurse!
