To get a strong nursing reference, ask your direct line manager or ward manager early, in person or by a polite email, explain the job you’re applying for, give them your CV and the reference form or deadline, and make sure their official email and phone number are correct. Reference delays are one of the most common reasons international nurses’ start dates are pushed back.
Who should be your referee?
- Your current or most recent line manager (ward manager, unit head, matron or chief nursing officer)
- A senior nurse who supervised your clinical work for a meaningful period
- For new graduates: a clinical tutor or principal of your nursing school
- Most employers abroad want referees covering the last 2 to 3 years of employment
Friends, relatives and colleagues of the same grade are usually not accepted.
What recruiters and employers check
- Employment dates and job title match your CV
- Clinical competence, attendance and conduct
- Any disciplinary issues or investigations
- Whether they would re-employ you
- That the referee’s email is an official work email, not a personal Gmail, where possible
How to ask
- Ask in person first if you can, then follow up by email.
- Give at least 1 to 2 weeks’ notice before the deadline.
- Attach your CV and the job description.
- Remind them of key achievements or responsibilities.
- Confirm their preferred email and phone number.
- Thank them, and tell them when you get the job.
Email template 1: Current manager
Subject: Reference request – [Your name], Staff Nurse, [Ward]
Dear [Manager’s name],
I hope you’re well. I’ve applied for a [Registered Nurse] position at [Hospital/Trust] in [country], and I’d be grateful if you would act as my professional referee.
The employer may contact you at [email] within the next few weeks. I’ve attached my CV and the job description. During my time on [ward], I [led the medication audit / mentored students / managed a 6-bed bay], which may be helpful to mention.
Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your support.
Kind regards,
[Name]
[Phone]
Email template 2: Former manager
Subject: Reference request from former staff nurse – [Your name]
Dear [Name],
I worked with you on [ward] at [hospital] from [month/year] to [month/year] as a [job title]. I’m now applying for [role] at [employer] and would be grateful if you could provide a reference covering that period.
I’ve attached my CV for your reference. Thank you very much for considering this.
Best regards,
[Name]
Email template 3: Polite reminder
Subject: Gentle reminder – reference for [Your name]
Dear [Name],
I wanted to gently follow up on the reference request from [employer] sent on [date]. They have asked for it by [deadline], as my start date depends on it. If anything is unclear or you need more information, I’m happy to help.
Thank you again for your time.
Kind regards,
[Name]
Common reference problems and how to avoid them
- Referee doesn’t respond: give recruiters a second referee and follow up politely.
- Dates don’t match your CV: check your appointment and service letters before applying.
- Referee left the hospital: ask the HR department to confirm employment, or nominate another senior nurse.
- Personal email used: some employers reject these; ask your referee to use an official email or get HR to verify.
- Fake references: never create a reference. It can lead to job loss, visa refusal and regulator action.
Frequently asked questions
Can my employer refuse to give a reference?
Policies vary. Some employers give only a basic reference confirming dates and job title, which is usually acceptable.
How many references do I need for a job abroad?
Usually two, covering the last 2 to 3 years. Check the employer’s requirements.
Related reading: Nurse resignation letter templates · Moving abroad checklist for nurses · How to write an NHS supporting statement