GMC Registration for overseas doctors
- October 20, 2021
To work as a doctor in the NHS (UK) you will need to register with the General Medical Council (GMC).
The GMC is the public body that maintains the official register of medical practitioners within the United Kingdom and attaining full registration is a multistep process involving a number of different documents. The purpose of this article is to help guide overseas doctors through the various stages of GMC Registration by considering the following topics:
- Why do I need GMC Registration?
- How much will it cost me?
- What are the requirements for GMC Registration?
- What is the process?
- Recognised GMC qualifications
- English language capabilities
- Registration and licensing history
- Certificates of good standing
- Knowledge and skill tests
- ID Check
TOP TIP: Before you start the process, we always recommend that It is worth having a read of the GMC website page on required documents. These can change, as the GMC adapts to changes in healthcare, and current issues like the coronavirus. Of course, if you have any questions have a chat with your IMG Consultant and we can help you to clear up any uncertainties.
Why do I need GMC Registration?
The GMC's main responsibility is to protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public and one way in which it does this is by carefully controlling entry to the register. Any doctor that wants to work in the UK must be fully registered with a license to practice with the GMC, whether working as a locum or permanent member of staff.
How much will it cost me?
Generally, GMC Registration will cost £420 but this may change depending on your circumstance. Once you are registered, you must pay an annual retention fee of £390 (which can be paid quarterly, monthly or in one lump sum). A full list of GMC Fees can be found here.
What are the requirements for GMC Registration?
These will depend on a number of factors which can be broken down into the following:
- Your nationality
- Where you gained your primary medical qualification
- Whether or not you have completed a postgraduate training or internship
What is the process?
The registration process can be broken down into these six steps:
- Check your primary medical qualification is GMC recognised
- Evidence of English language capabilities
- Registration and licensing history
- Certificates of good standing
- Knowledge and skills tests
- ID checks
Recognised GMC qualifications:
If your primary medical qualification (PMQ) is from outside the UK or EEA, you need to make sure it is eligible for GMC registration. Check here to see if your PMQ is recognised or have a read through our blog on accetable overseas qualifications.
You will be required to have your PMQ independently verified before your license to practice is granted.
This is carried out by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) through their online EPIC system. For more information on verifying your PMQ and the EPIC system take a look at our blog here.
English language capabilities:
If English is not your native language, then you will need to pass an English Language Test (ELT), you can take either one of the following:
Registration and licensing history:
You must provide all details for any registrations or medical licenses held in the last five years.
Certificates of good standing:
From each of your listed medical establishments, you’ll need to provide a Certificate of Good Standing (CGS). It is worth applying for these early on as they can take some time!
Knowledge and skill tests:
If you attained your Primary Medical Degree from a country outside the EEA region you'll need to demonstrate you have the necessary knowledge and skills to practice in the UK. This can be through a number of routes:
- Passing the PLAB test
- Providing evidence of an acceptable postgraduate qualification
- Being eligible for entry onto the Specialist Register or GP Register
- Gaining sponsorship by an approved sponsor
Take a look at our IMG Library, in particular our sections on Postgraduate Qualifications, PLAB and CESR for further reading. Of course, we'd be delighted to talk you through your options so either give us a call or request a call back and we'll get in touch very shortly.
To reaffirm, if you have attained your medical degree from a recognised institution from a country inside the EEA region you will not need to demonstrate evidence of appropriate knowledge or skills.
ID Check:
Once all requested information is submitted, you will need to book an ID check with the GMC. This will require you to attend in person, at the London office. At this point your IMG Consultant will always make an effort to meet you in person & buy you a coffee. We always believe it is better to put a face to a name!
However, please note at this time of uncertainty and disruption caused by the coronavirus ID checks are not necessary. You can currently be granted a full license to practice without having shown your ID to the GMC first, however this is only a temporary measure.
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Relevant Jobs
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Haematology working in an established medical setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
The NHS Trust is one of the largest integrated care providers in England, serving a diverse population with a commitment to high-quality care and continuous improvement. The Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a broad range of services through various care groups, including Surgery, Integrated Medical Specialties, Family Health, Community, and Clinical Specialist Services. It provides a dynamic environment that supports innovation, education, and collaboration.
The Haematology Department & Team
The Haematology Department is a forward-thinking unit, staffed by a dedicated team of Consultant Haematologists and Clinical Nurse Specialists. The department focuses on outpatient and day case treatments, with a collaborative approach to inpatient care. It utilizes advanced facilities for a wide range of haematological services and participates in regional MDTs. This new consultant post will primarily be based at one of the main hospital sites but may involve activities across other locations within the Trust.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within haematology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust supports continuous professional development and encourages participation in research and teaching activities. There is a strong emphasis on education with regular clinical meetings, audit sessions, and opportunities for career advancement.
Location
The location is ideal for international doctors and their families, offering affordable living costs, good schools, and a rich cultural heritage. There are numerous recreational activities, from exploring beautiful countryside and national parks to enjoying vibrant community events and historical sites. The area has excellent transport links, including easy access to major cities and convenient connections to international airports.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Active GMC registration with license to practice
- Experience in Haematology
EEA candidates:
- European Specialist Qualification in Haematology
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP or FRCPath Haematology or PLAB
Consultant Psychiatrist – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
South Wales
A dynamic and transformational CAMHS service in South Wales is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in child and adolescent mental health. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team delivering specialist care across the region, contributing to service development and clinical leadership within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive mental health service with access to regional tier 4 services and a population of approximately 380,000. The post supports the organisation’s strategic vision to integrate CAMHS more closely into community settings while developing clinical pathways in areas including eating disorders, complex care, youth justice, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
We welcome applications for full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements and will support CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) development on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
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Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
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Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
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Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
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Experience delivering psychiatric care in CAMHS or related services is required.
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A collaborative, developmental, and family-focused approach, with excellent communication and leadership skills, is highly valued.
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Opportunities for career development through CPD, peer supervision, quality improvement, and service leadership.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide consultant-level psychiatric care to children and adolescents as part of a multidisciplinary CAMHS team.
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Lead clinical care planning, review, and treatment delivery in partnership with colleagues across mental health, health, education, and social care.
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Work closely with specialist regional services including adolescent inpatient units, eating disorder outreach services, and forensic CAMHS consultation teams.
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Participate in the CAMHS consultant on-call rota (with prospective cover).
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Contribute to service improvement, pathway development, and integrated working in line with strategic planning goals.
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Provide supervision and clinical leadership to junior medical staff and allied professionals.
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Participate in annual appraisal, job planning, and revalidation, with access to local peer groups and CPD.
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Uphold principles of clinical governance, information governance, and risk management across the CAMHS Directorate.
LIFE IN SOUTH WALES
South Wales offers a rare combination of coastal beauty, green open spaces, and urban convenience. With beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and excellent local amenities, it is an ideal location for professionals and families alike. The region is well-connected by public transport and road networks and offers easy access to nearby cities and airports.
Healthcare professionals in the area benefit from a supportive and inclusive working environment and access to a wide network of services across health, education, and social care.
If you are passionate about delivering outstanding CAMHS care and want to help shape future services in a supportive, innovative setting, we welcome your application. Please note that we may close this post early if sufficient applications are received.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
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CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
-
At least two video interview preparation sessions.
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
-
Document gathering and checking.
-
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
-
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
Consultant Psychiatrist – Acute Inpatient Service
South of England | Close to London
- Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
- Recruitment premia £15,000 over 3 years *subject to policy requirements
- Relocation allowance: up to £8000 *subject to policy requirements
An inclusive and progressive NHS mental health trust in the South of England is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in acute inpatient care. The successful candidate will join a compassionate and collaborative multidisciplinary team, providing high-quality psychiatric care to adults and clinical leadership across inpatient services. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading NHS Foundation Trust known for integrated working, a strong culture of kindness and respect, and its commitment to clinical excellence and innovation.
Applications are welcome for full-time, part-time, or flexible working patterns. CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) support is available and tailored to individual needs.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
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Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
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Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
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Clinical experience in managing acute adult mental illness in inpatient settings is required.
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Strong teamworking, communication, and leadership skills are essential.
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Ongoing opportunities for professional development through training, leadership pathways, teaching, and academic engagement.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide Consultant-level psychiatric care to adult inpatients, in line with the Trust’s Acute Operational Policy.
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Deliver clinical leadership and active involvement in quality improvement initiatives.
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Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a recovery-focused, trauma-informed approach to care.
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Coordinate with specialist and community teams to ensure effective patient transitions and continuity of care.
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Supervise and support junior doctors, specialty trainees, and students.
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Participate in Consultant on-call rota (details available on request).
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Engage in audit, teaching, research, and service development activities.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND
Located in the South of England, this opportunity offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and quality of life. The area combines vibrant urban centres, picturesque countryside, and excellent transport links — with London just 30 minutes away by train, and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports nearby for easy international travel.
This region is known for its historic market towns, outstanding schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Whether you\'re relocating alone or with family, it offers something for everyone — from city convenience to coastal calm.
The Trust is committed to inclusivity, wellbeing, and the development of its workforce, offering access to flexible working and a wide range of staff benefits.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
-
CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
-
At least two video interview preparation sessions.
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
-
Document gathering and checking.
-
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
-
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.
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Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.
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Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.
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Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
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Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.
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Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.
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Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.
LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND
This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
-
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
-