Nurse Resignation Letter: 5 Templates, Notice Periods and How to Resign Professionally

A good nurse resignation letter is short, polite and factual: it states that you are resigning, your job title, your last working day according to your notice period, a brief thank-you, and an offer to help with handover. Keep complaints out of it. Your former manager is often your reference for your next job, especially if you are moving abroad.

Before you resign

• Check your contract for your notice period (often one month in many hospitals; longer for senior roles) and any bond or training repayment clause.
• Get your new job confirmed in writing and, if moving abroad, make sure your visa and licence are in place.
• Request service letters and references before or as you resign.
• Tell your manager in person first, then hand in the letter.

What to include

1. Date, your name, staff number and department
2. Manager’s name and hospital address
3. Clear statement of resignation and your job title
4. Last working day
5. Brief thanks
6. Offer to support handover
7. Signature

Template 1: Standard resignation letter

Dear [Manager’s name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Staff Nurse] on [Ward/Unit], [Hospital name]. In line with my [one-month] notice period, my last working day will be [date].

Thank you for the support and opportunities I have had during my time here. I have learned a great deal from the team.

I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth handover, including completing my duties and supporting new staff.

Yours sincerely,
[Name]
[Staff number / Registration number]

Template 2: Relocating abroad

Dear [Manager’s name],

I am writing to formally resign from my role as [Nursing Officer II] in the [Department], with my last working day on [date], in line with my notice period.

I have accepted a nursing position abroad. This was not an easy decision, and I am grateful for the experience and mentorship I received here, which prepared me for this step.

I would be grateful if you could provide a service letter and act as a reference. I will ensure all my duties are handed over properly before I leave.

Yours faithfully,
[Name]

Template 3: Short notice

Dear [Manager’s name],

I regret to inform you that, due to [personal/family circumstances], I need to resign from my position as [job title] with effect from [date]. I understand this is shorter than my contractual notice period, and I am happy to discuss how I can help minimise disruption, including working remaining shifts or using annual leave.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,
[Name]

Template 4: Career change or further study

Dear [Manager’s name],

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation as [job title], effective [date]. I have been admitted to [programme] and will be focusing on my studies.

Thank you for encouraging my professional development. I hope to stay in touch.

Kind regards,
[Name]

Template 5: Retirement

Dear [Manager’s name],

After [number] years in nursing, I am writing to confirm my retirement, with my last working day on [date].

Caring for patients alongside such dedicated colleagues has been the privilege of my life. Thank you for your support over the years.

With warm regards,
[Name]

Resigning professionally

• Work your notice fully and well. Your last weeks are remembered.
• Complete documentation and hand over patients and responsibilities clearly.
• Return uniforms, ID badges and keys.
• If you have concerns about safety or bullying, raise them through the proper channel or an exit interview, not in the resignation letter.
• Thank your team. Nursing is a small world.

Frequently asked questions

How much notice should a nurse give?

Follow your contract. One month is common, but some employers require two or three months, especially for senior roles.

Do I have to say why I’m leaving?

No. A brief reason is polite but optional.

Can my employer refuse my resignation?

Generally, an employer cannot force you to stay, but they can enforce the notice period and any agreed repayment terms in your contract.

Related reading: Moving abroad checklist for nurses · Nursing CV for jobs abroad · “Tell me about yourself” answers