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
A fantastic opportunity awaits Histopathologists seeking a fixed-term position. This Pathology Services provides support for CESR accreditation and facilitates entry into specialty training within the NHS. The department is both high-performing and supportive, particularly welcoming overseas doctors new to the NHS or UK-based doctors seeking career advancement. They deliver pathology services to their acute hospitals and local GPs, with some laboratories offering specialized services to the wider NHS and engaging in research studies. Serving 1.76 million patients and conducting 60 million tests, the partnership has resulted in 27,000 additional community phlebotomy appointments, improved turnaround times, and streamlined workflows.
The Pathology Service thrive on a dedicated workforce leveraging cutting-edge technologies, delivering exceptional clinical services centered on patient care.
What is the Pathology Service like?
The Pathology Services comprises four pathology laboratories. These laboratories are responsible for providing pathology services to both acute hospitals and local general practitioners. Additionally, certain laboratories within the network offer specialized services to the broader NHS and engage in research studies and trials. As part of a significant initiative within the NHS, pathology services in England are undergoing reorganization, transitioning into larger local network models. This restructuring has led to the establishment of 29 pathology units nationwide.
This development positions the pathology service as an exceptionally appealing workplace, situated at the forefront of NHS innovation and digitalization in pathology. Despite these advancements, this pathology service remains committed to delivering the latest tests and services, incorporating cutting-edge clinical science into modern patient care. Currently, they manage approximately 120,000 cases with a team of 36 consultants (augmented by some outsourcing), with the capacity to expand its consultant team to 40 full-time positions.
What is the department & team like?
The Pathology Service was established following the Lord Carter review of Pathology services in England, aiming to reduce overtesting, enhance resilience, and lower costs. amalgamates staff, services, and IT platforms from four trusts to enhance pathology quality in the Black Country, serving 1.4 million individuals and conducting 60 million tests annually. It underwent a comprehensive IT system overhaul to facilitate integrated services, embrace new technologies, and expedite laboratory results.
The pathology service operates three laboratories offering nationally accredited consultant-led pathology services. With state-of-the-art facilities and IT systems, they garnered commendation from Lord Carter for its efficiency and innovation in pathology. Notably, innovations showcased during Lord Carter\'s visit in 2021 included pre-barcoded tubes for sample tracking and digital automation in microbiology labs.
Lord Carter praised the service as a model of service integration and technological advancement, emphasizing the importance of technology, including artificial intelligence, in expediting diagnostics. He commended the leadership and dedication of the staff, highlighting their achievements and commitment to patient care. The evidence is there to be seen, as latest figures show they scored 92 per cent compliance on a dashboard provided by NHS Improvement, ranking it one of the best performing services in the country
Career Development & Opportunities Available
Career development opportunities are aplenty. The Centre is one of the highest performing centres in the UK, with excellent CQC scores, a fantastic leadership team, and highly advanced specialist reporting functions. All of this provides an excellent platform for anyone to excel and develop, whether it\'s a step towards specialisation in one anatomical area, or whether it\'s advancing yourself in the world of digital pathology, the right individual can really flourish here.
Digital Pathology and AI is a massive part of what the Group are doing, and part of what makes this opportunity so exciting. Working from home, working abroad, or taking on additional workload out of hours - digital pathology is taking off. They are the most advanced Digital Pathology Service in the UK, and this provides everyone with huge opportunity to grow and develop in a really exciting global field of pathology.
Life in the West Midlands
Based is a modern industrial city situated on the midlands. It is compact, with no boundary more than four miles from the centre and is approximately a 30-minute drive to Birmingham (15 miles), 1 hour 20 minutes to Manchester (60 miles). The city is an urban, multi-ethnic city with a population of around 250,000. The wider hospital catchment area has a population of in excess of 350,000. With more than 600 shops, bars, café and restaurants, the city is not only a great place to work but also somewhere to relax and enjoy. The city centre is just a 10-minute bus ride from the Hospital.
The nearby countryside of Staffordshire and Shropshire is delightful. To the north is Cannock Chase and to the west the Shropshire borders with attractions of Bridgnorth, the Clee Hills, the Long Mynd, Wenlock Edge, and the Severn Valley. South of Wolverhampton, the City of Worcester is easily accessible, and to the west north-Wales can be reached in just over an hour. The area has a large network of canals, the majority renovated, offering adjacent housing and popular for narrow boat holidays.
Am I eligible for this role?
To be eligible for this vacancy you will need the following:
EEA candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree
- Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
- IELTS or OET
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- IELTS or OET
UK-based candidates:
- Within six months of CCT or CCT Holder
This is a great opportunity for any experienced histopathologist interested in specialisation, and with interest in digital pathology.
An excellent opportunity to join the dynamic team at an esteemed organization recognized for its excellence by the CQC. This is an opportune moment to become part of the Acute Medicine and Medicine Specialties Teams. With a strong history of achievements, they are committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. They are seeking dynamic and motivated specialists histopathologists to become part of their welcoming and enthusiastic gastroenterology team. This presents a chance to join a dedicated histopathology team committed to delivering the highest quality comprehensive service.
This is a great opportunity for overseas consultants or specialists who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their consultant career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
The NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the nation\'s largest integrated healthcare organizations, delivering both hospital and community services to a populace exceeding 650,000 individuals. Renowned for their ambition and innovation, they boast a skilled workforce comprising over 7,000 dedicated colleagues. Operating across two acute sites for hospital services and encompassing centers and community hospitals in six towns for planned care, they extend their services even to patients\' residences.
Recognized as a high-performing entity with a history of accomplishments, the Trust has functioned as an integrated acute and community services provider since 2011 and achieved foundation trust status in 2007. Guided by their strategic framework \"Our Patients Matter,\" they articulate their short- and long-term objectives and delineate the path to their realization. This framework underscores their commitment to providing the safest, most compassionate, and seamlessly coordinated care to the communities they serve.
Within this NHS Foundation Trust, medical professionals are presented with a plethora of career prospects and exposure to diverse care settings rarely encountered elsewhere. Additionally, they have the opportunity to reside and practice in some of the most culturally rich and picturesque locations across the country!
What is the Department & Team like?
The Histopathology department is dedicated to delivering precise diagnostic services crucial for patient care. Led by a team of experienced consultants and supported by junior doctors and skilled laboratory personnel, the department handles a wide array of cases across various medical disciplines. This includes examining tissue specimens for cancer diagnosis, assessing surgical margins, and identifying infectious diseases.
Equipped with advanced technology and instrumentation such as microscopes, tissue processing equipment, and digital imaging systems, the department ensures accurate diagnosis. The team collaborates closely with other departments like surgery, oncology, and radiology to ensure seamless patient care.
The department processes a significant volume of histopathology and cytology cases, providing essential information to clinicians for treatment planning and patient management. Committed to excellence and precision, the Histopathology team plays a pivotal role in delivering top-notch healthcare to the community.
What is life like in the area?
The North East of the UK offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore stunning coastal areas like Northumberland\'s beaches or venture inland to scenic national parks such as the North Pennines. The region is home to respected schools and universities, including Newcastle University. Transportation links are robust, with efficient road and rail networks connecting residents to major cities like Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, as well as international airports. Housing options range from quaint cottages in picturesque villages to modern apartments in vibrant city centers, catering to various lifestyles.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Histopathology
- Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience of working in Histopathology
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Histopathology
An exciting opportunity for a Consultant Breast Radiologist with expertise in breast and general radiology to work for a health board that aims to provide the best services to their patients. Ideal for overseas consultants looking to establish themselves in the NHS. The health board serves a population of 384,000 in several towns. They aim to improve healthcare by collaborating with local government and the third sector.
You will be a part of the Breast Radiology Department, which is a vital part of the healthcare service in the area, providing comprehensive diagnostic and interventional breast radiology services. Their team includes experienced consultants and junior doctors, ensuring high-quality care. The facility is well-equipped, and the successful candidate will lead and enhance the department\'s services. You will have a lot of growth opportunities as the Health Board is involved in education and research, with strong links to other universities. They aim to engage emerging clinicians in addressing Prudent Health Cares. Their Clinical Research Facility and initiatives in BioBanking and telemonitoring demonstrate their commitment to research and advancement.
It is situated in a town that offers a tranquil lifestyle with access to scenic coastal areas. It is a blend of rural and urban living. The region features quality schools and links to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Transportation connections are strong, and housing options are diverse, catering to different preferences. It\'s a balanced location for professionals and families.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Radiology
- Board Certified Specialist in Radiology
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Radiology
- FRCR
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Radiology
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellentHealth Board is actively seeking a Consultant Interventional Radiologist to join their innovative team. The role involves enhancing radiological services across the Health Board, reflecting their commitment to exceptional patient care. This opportunity is well-suited for overseas Consultants looking to establish themselves in the NHS or experienced IMGs seeking to complete CESR requirements.
The Health Board caters to 384,000 residents across several towns, delivering a wide spectrum of healthcare services. Their dedication to patient well-being includes a focus on continuous improvement, achieved through collaboration with local government and the third sector. The Health Board actively promotes education and research, fostering multi-profession teaching and supporting the development of up-and-coming clinicians. Their Clinical Research Facility and initiatives like BioBanking and telemonitoring reflect their commitment to advancing healthcare.
The Interventional Radiology Department is well-equipped and managed by experienced consultants and junior doctors. They provide comprehensive care, specializing in minimally invasive treatments for various conditions. Their advanced imaging technology ensures accurate diagnoses, and they handle a significant caseload of interventional radiology cases.
The hospital sits within a town that offers a balanced lifestyle with both urban conveniences and access to scenic rural areas. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, high-quality schools, and strong transportation links to major cities and airports. Housing options are diverse, accommodating various preferences. This opportunity presents a holistic and enriching professional and personal life for healthcare professionals.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Radiology
- Board Certified Specialist in Radiology
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Radiology
- FRCR
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Radiology
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
This is a good opportunity for any FRCPath or European-qualified histopathologists to join a friendly, high calibre department in the North East of England. The department are looking for experienced but hungry histopathologists to join them for a long-term post, and the trust will support candidates working on the Portfolio Pathway in Histopathology (formerly known as CESR). The trust will consider both UK and overseas applicants.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
The NHS Foundation Trust serves as a district general hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the local population. Under its management, various healthcare facilities in the region. Consistent positive evaluations from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) underscore its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care, safety, and efficiency. The catchment area of this trust encompasses the north east, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive healthcare close to home. Through its services, the trust plays a vital role in promoting community health and well-being, contributing to a stronger, healthier population.
What is the department & team like?
The department have been centralized at a state-of-the-art Pathology Centre located at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s main hospital. These services cater to the local population in the North East. The consolidation of Cellular Pathology Services, completed in 2014, marks an innovative reorganization in pathology services. Satellite hot lab facilities are available at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s other sites. The NHS Foundation Trust leads this service, and the appointed individual will be contracted.
Pathologists are equipped with high-quality IT infrastructure to facilitate remote attendance at Multidisciplinary Team Meetings (MDTs). In cases where physical presence is required, a departmental electric car or a hopper service is available for transportation. Digital pathology implementation is underway progressively for pathologists interested in participation.
Career Development & Further Opportunities Available
The department will in time be moving towards a specialist reporting model and there will be opportunity to carve out your lead role in either the GI, head & neck, and urology sub-specialties.Life in North East
The North East of England offers a diverse mix of rural landscapes and urban centers, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore historic sites like Hadrian\'s Wall or enjoy scenic walks along the Northumberland coast. The area boasts reputable schools and universities such as Durham University. Transportation links are efficient, connecting the region to major cities like Newcastle and Sunderland, as well as airports for convenient travel. Housing options vary from picturesque villages to modern city apartments, accommodating different preferences and lifestyles.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience in Histopathology
EEA candidates:
- Specialist certification in Histopathology
- Experience in Histopathology
UK candidates:
- CCT, CESR or within 6-12 months of specialist registration
- Experience in Histopathology