Types of GMC Registration
- November 07, 2023
The General Medical Council’s medical register is a full list of all the doctors qualified to work in the UK. Within this, there are different types of registration which doctors must hold to work in different posts in the UK.
All practicing physicians must hold one of these types of registration with a license to practice.
In this article we will discuss the following:
1. Provisional Registration
The purpose of provisional registration is to allow medical graduates to complete an approved internship (FY1). After this, trainees will receive a certificate of experience with which they can apply for full registration.
Provisional registration can be held for a maximum of three years and 30 days (1,125 days) only, which would be enough time within which to complete a 12-month internship. This registration will expire after the allotted time, and you will be removed from the register, however, more time can be provided, and you can find out whether you will be eligible here.
What roles can I take with provisional registration?
With provisional registration, the only service post you are able to take is an FY1 service post, other than an approved UK FY1 programme.
Who can apply for provisional registration?
If you are eligible for full registration, you cannot apply for provisional registration.
Applications for provisional registration will be considered from:
- UK medical graduate who completed their medical degree at a UK university
- Doctors who graduated from outside the UK with an acceptable primary medical qualification (PMQ) and have passed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB), but have not completed an internship
- Doctors who qualified within certain European countries but do not hold the accompanying certificate required to complete their relevant European qualification – you can see a full list of these countries here.
2. Full Registration
Doctors require full registration to work in unsupervised medical practice in the NHS, UK private practice, or to move onto the second year of their internship (FY2) in an approved training programme require a full license to practice.
What roles can I take with full registration?
With full registration, doctors can take up any post aside from GP posts and substantive consultant posts.
Who can apply for full registration?
There are certain criteria you must meet before you are eligible for full registration:
1. Completed the first year (FY1) of the Foundation Programme in the UK
2. Be a Swiss or UK national (or benefit from enforceable community rights) and have either:
- A formal qualification listed in The Directive on Recognition of Professional Qualifications; OR
- An acceptable primary medical qualification from outside the EEA (which has been recognised in Switzerland) with evidence of an acceptable pattern of experience
3. Be an international medical graduate (IMG) with an acceptable PMQ, and enough clinical experience to practice medicine in the UK – you can do this in one of 5 ways:
- A pass in the PLAB test
- Sponsorship by a GMC approved sponsor
- An acceptable postgraduate qualification or overseas licensing exam
- Relevant European Qualification (REQ)
- Eligibility for entry onto the Specialist or GP register
Full registration does not have a time limit, but doctors should note that they are required to go through a revalidation process every five years to avoid the license to practice being withdrawn.
You can read more about the routes to GMC Registration through our IMG Resources library.
3. Specialist Registration
The specialist register is an online list of doctors who are eligible to work as fixed term, honorary or substantive consultants in the NHS, excluding foundation trusts.
If a doctor is on the Specialist Register, it will say so as part of their status on the register, and you will be able to see the specialties (and sub-specialties) they are qualified in, as well as the date they joined the specialist register in each specialty.
Types of Specialist Registration
There are three types of certificates issued by the GMC, and the type of certificate you will receive at the end of your training defines which training route you are on.
You can read more about Specialist Registration for IMGs here.
What roles can I take with Specialist registration?
Doctors who are on the Specialist Register can take up permanent or substantive consultant positions.
Who can apply for Specialist registration?
Eligibility for Specialist Registration depends on your nationality, qualifications and experience. To meet the minimum eligibility requirements to apply you must have either:
- A specialist qualification in the specialty you’re applying in
OR
You’ll need to provide evidence of how you’re eligible as part of your application. This could be a copy of your qualification or evidence of your employment. In your application you must show that you meet the requirements of the CCT curriculum in your specialty.
4. GP Registration
GP Registration is a requirement for any doctor who wishes to be eligible for appointment to a general practitioner (GP) position in the UK.
Please note that unlike in many countries, GPs in the UK are family and community medicine specialists and if you are an IMG general physician, you would need to apply for full registration, not GP registration.
What roles can I take with GP registration?
Doctors who are on the GP Register can take up posts as General Practitioners in the UK. As well as being on the GP Register, you’ll need to complete a number of other processes before you can start work as a GP in the UK. You'll need to join a Performers List and an Induction or Returner Scheme. You can read more about this here.
Who can apply for GP registration?
Doctors may be eligible for entry onto the GP Register if you have a relevant European GP qualification. You can check which GP qualifications are accepted on the GMC’s evidence of qualifications page. You must also check your qualification is on the list of relevant European qualifications, and that:
AND
- The qualification was issued on or after the reference date listed.
#IMG Tips
- Use the GMC website – there are many useful resources on the GMC website, including a very helpful registration route finder to help you determine which registration you should apply for.
- Research/ think about the types of evidence you will need and make a plan for your application, particularly if you will have to sit any exams.
- If you want to contact our specialists use our Candidate Portal today!
So there it is, the different types of GMC registration in a nutshell. This is important to understand, particularly for IMGs looking to relocate to the UK and find work in the NHS. If you have any further questions about GMC registration or your route to the UK, please get in touch with us here.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Relevant Jobs
Eligibility for these roles:
- Specialist Registration in Histopathology with the GMC - this is essential and candidates cannot be considered without this.
- Strong experience reporting histology in cardiothoracic pathology
An NHS hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical or Medical Oncologist. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced oncologists, specialist nurses, and research staff, offering high-quality patient care and research opportunities. TAnyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
-
This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register (or within 6 months), CESR, or a suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.
- The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide specialist care in a chosen cancer site, including systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
- Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across hospital sites.
- Engage in clinical research and trials, working alongside a well-established research team.
- Support the teaching and supervision of junior doctors, registrars, and medical students.
- Contribute to the 1:8 consultant on-call rota, including weekend ward rounds.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This region offers a perfect mix of city and countryside living, with bustling urban centres and tranquil rural retreats. Those looking for city life can enjoy vibrant city centres, while those seeking peace and quiet can explore beautiful national parks and historical towns.
The area boasts high-performing schools, excellent transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities, including outdoor adventures, cultural festivals, and international travel connections.
With a rich industrial heritage and stunning architecture, the region has played a pivotal role in British history, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and work.
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 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
An NHS hospital in Bath, South West England is looking for a Consultant Clinical or Medical Oncologist with an interest in either Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of 12 Clinical Oncologists, 8 Medical Oncologists, and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, specialist nurses, and research staff. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Experience and interest in Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Oncology is required.
- The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Manage patients with Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers, including systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
- Provide expert care in oncology inpatient and outpatient settings and contribute to multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
- Participate in clinical research, with access to a well-established clinical trials unit and national research collaborations.
- Engage in teaching and mentoring junior doctors, registrars, and medical students, with opportunities for leadership in education and training.
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 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
An NHS hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification 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
Full or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Manage breast cancer patients, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across the region.
- Deliver systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
- Participate in breast cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
- Supervise and teach junior doctors, registrars, and medical students.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST
The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.
The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.
Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes it an exciting place to live and work.
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 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 excellent NHS hospital in the UK is seeking a Consultant in Dermatology with a focus on skin cancer and paediatric dermatology. The department consists of three experienced consultants and is supported by a diverse team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both UK-based and international candidates, with preference for those holding GMC Specialist registration or equivalent.
Portfolio support (formerly CESR) is available and can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- GMC Registration with a licence to practice is required for this role, and individuals with a special interest in skin cancer and paediatric dermatology are encouraged to apply.
- The salary will range from £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, based on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver high-quality dermatology care, specializing in skin cancer and paediatric dermatology.
- Engage in the education and training of junior staff and medical students.
- Participate in clinical governance, audit, and continuing medical education.
- Contribute to the Cornwall Skin Cancer MDT and other department activities.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The area offers a perfect mix of urban and rural living. The main city provides vibrant city life, while rural areas offer quiet retreats with breathtaking views of the coastline. There are excellent transport connections with easy access to London, and multiple leisure opportunities are available, including outdoor activities like hiking and sailing.
The region is rich in history, particularly maritime history, and is home to several iconic landmarks. The local hospital is a significant part of the community, offering outstanding medical services.
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
- 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 any other aspects of pastoral care