The issues surrounding international recruitment and the migration of health workers have generated huge media attention. However, relatively little primary research has been done in this area. Based on a survey of international nurses in London, this paper reports on the country of origin, demographic profile, motivations, experiences and career plans of the 380 respondents. The paper also outlines the overall trends in the numbers of nurses coming to the United Kingdom, examines the policy context in which international recruitment activity has been conducted, and looks at the impact of the United Kingdom's Code of Practice on international recruitment. [Abstract]