A Surgeon's Route to the UK
- December 16, 2021
There are several routes and overseas surgeon can take to GMC registration and securing an NHS surgery job.
Whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC) before beginning their journey in the NHS. As a surgeon, the criteria you need to meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA.
This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live. With that in mind, we have outlined the process for both EEA doctors and Non-EEA doctors so follow the link below that is relevant to you!
“Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”
Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians
Inside the EEA
Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.
If you qualified as a surgeon inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent.
In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
So, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.
You can do this by passing either of the following:
- OET – Occupational English Test
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC Registration
Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC.
For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
- Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET)
AND
- Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: IMG Resources - GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European surgeons in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of surgery jobs than are readily available online.
Our network extends to surgery services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of surgery, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life
Outside the EEA
If you qualified as a surgeon outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK.
In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
Here we summarise the requirements for surgery doctors, looking at the following:
- English Language Testing
- Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCS or equivalents
- Tier 2 Visas
- Full GMC Registration
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.
You can do this by passing either of the following:
- OET – Occupational English Test
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Surgery
Overseas surgeons must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. For surgeons this can be done through three main routes:
- PLAB
- Royal College qualification of MRCS
- GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications
PLAB:
The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in surgery specifically.
For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, surgeons can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS.
Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB:
Route 2 - Royal College Qualification:
Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. surgery.
For senior surgeons taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.
The Royal College of Surgeons is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of surgery in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining MRCS will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK surgery.
Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons to understand more: MRCS – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications:
Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications.
There are surgery qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.
Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC here: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications.
Tier 2 Visa
If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.
Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make.
Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family?
Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa: Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK?
GMC Registration
With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC.
Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
- Evidence of English language capabilities
AND
- Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCS or equivalent)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article here: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA surgeons in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online.
Our network extends to surgery services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a specialty knowledge of surgery, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary. Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life
Brexit
Many surgeons have questions about how the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU) will affect doctors from outside the EEA already working in the UK, and those who may wish to work here in the future.
Whilst we are still pushing for a halt to Brexit, we've been keeping a close eye on policies and developments to ensure that we keep our doctors as up to date as possible. While we await more information from the UK Government about what our future relationship with Europe will look like, what is clear is that there are no current changes to immigration entry requirements for non-EEA doctors.
Overseas doctors are most welcome in the NHS with or without Brexit… you are in demand and we will support with all the necessary requirements for entry to the UK.
Take a look at our Brexit articles for more information: IMG Resources - Brexit
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS surgery jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS jobs & hospital locations for you.
Relevant Jobs
A private secondary care hospital situated in the North West of England is recruiting European and internationally trained plastic surgeons for full-time salaried roles in the UK. Offering a competitive and negotiable salary, with potential for bonus and commission to form part of your income, this is an amazing opporutunity for any surgeon interesting in joining one of the UK\'s biggest cosmetic surgery providers.
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Services
The cosmetic plastic surgery department provides a comprehensive range of procedures, including breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift; tummy tucks; rhinoplasty; facelifts; and Vaser liposuction. These procedures are carried out by a team of fully accredited, specialised surgeons skilled in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The department operates with modern facilities, including cutting-edge operating theatres and private en-suite rooms designed to enhance patient comfort and experience. With a reputation for high patient satisfaction and a significant volume of procedures conducted annually, the department is a leading provider in the region.
Clinic and Theatre Availability
Clinics operate seven days a week, with theatre availability also spanning the entire week. There are no restrictions on surgical output, providing opportunities for motivated and efficient surgeons to achieve substantial earnings, whether working normal or extended full-time hours.
Salary & Bonus - Earning Potential
The group is well-established, with a steady influx of patient inquiries and leads.
With an experienced theatre team, offering 20-25-min theatre turnaround times, and with the volume of work available, any surgeon has an exceptional earning potential when joining this organisation.
Eligibility
- GMC registration or eligibility for full registration
- Extensive experience in cosmetic surgery
A private secondary care hospital situated in the North West of England is recruiting for part-time or full-time plastic surgeons. The centre provides a full range of medical procedures but specialises in surgical interventions, mainly cosmetic surgeries, and provides the highest volume of cosmetic surgeries in the north west of England. Common procedures include breast augmentations, abdominoplasties, and rhinoplasty amongst many, however a full range of surgeries are provided.
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Services
The cosmetic plastic surgery department provides a comprehensive range of procedures, including breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift; tummy tucks; rhinoplasty; facelifts; and Vaser liposuction. These procedures are carried out by a team of fully accredited, specialised surgeons skilled in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The department operates with modern facilities, including cutting-edge operating theatres and private en-suite rooms designed to enhance patient comfort and experience. With a reputation for high patient satisfaction and a significant volume of procedures conducted annually, the department is a leading provider in the region.
Clinic and Theatre Availability
Clinics operate seven days a week, with theatre availability also spanning the entire week. There are no restrictions on surgical output, providing opportunities for motivated and efficient surgeons to achieve substantial earnings, whether working part-time or full-time.
Earning Potential
The group is well-established, with a steady influx of patient inquiries and leads. Procedure rates range from approximately £600 to £2,500, depending on complexity, offering significant earning potential. Earnings depend on the volume of procedures and hours committed by the surgeon.
Opportunity for plastic surgery specialists to join one of Ireland\'s leading aesthetic and cosmetic plastic surgery clinics, with multiple locations across the country.
At the Clinic clients have access to the very latest procedures and techniques available in the cosmetic surgery industry. The clinic performs more procedures at its designated cosmetic surgery clinics than any other facility in the country, firmly establishing itself as Ireland\'s market leader in this field.
The clinic offers an expansive range of treatments for the body and face, including liposuction, abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, eyelid surgery, face lift, facial contour surgery, post-weight loss body contouring, lip fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, Profhilo, and non-surgical facial cosmesis.
Meeting the highest international standards for surgery, pre and post-operative care, and day-to-day clinical management is a core commitment of the clinic, and they continuously invest in technology, procedures, and systems to ensure that every client receives the best quality of service and care. The clinic maintains a carefully selected panel of surgeons, providing clients with the assurance that their surgeon possesses extensive experience in similar procedures. All surgeons in posts currently are registered with The Irish Medical Council on the specialist register of Plastic, Reconstruction, and Aesthetic Surgery. In addition, all surgeons and anaesthetists serve as consultants at the areas principal public hospitals.
Core responsibilities will be:
- Meeting with patients, taking their histories, and examining their files in order to provide them with the best surgical options.
- Outlining all the risks and benefits associated with the surgery prior to the procedure, and preparing patients for surgical and non-surgical procedures.
- Performing consultations with patients, with most experience needed with breast augmentation, reduction, and abdominoplasty.
- Prescribing medication like painkillers, antibiotics, and providing aftercare advice to patients.
- Scheduling follow-ups to remove stitches, inspect incisions, and monitor the patients’ healing.
- Applicants are required to hold or be eligible for Specialist IMC (Irish Medical Council) registration
- Should have completed a minimum of 3 years performing Cosmetic Surgery procedures independently
- Extensive experience in efficient and high quality delivery of common procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and abdominoplasty.
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Urology to join a Health Board in North Wales that promotes equality and diversity. If you love a challenge, have a passion to help others or simple fancy a fresh start, then this Health Board has all the ingredients. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Urology holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade.
Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed.
WHAT IS HEALTH BOARD LIKE?
The Health Board is largest health organisation in Wales, that are developing an integrated health service which provides excellent care delivered in partnership with the public and other statutory and third sector organisations.
The Health Board have a budget of £1.3 billion and a workforce of over 17,000 staff. Providing primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for the population of around 700,000 across of North Wales. They continuously develop their workforce so that it has the right skills and operates in a research-rich learning culture.
Besides their three main hospital sites, they are also responsible for community hospitals, health centres, clinics, mental health units, community teams, GP practices and other NHS services provided by dentists, opticians and pharmacists. They plan to improve the health of the population, with particular focus upon the most vulnerable in our society.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The department currently have three full-time urological surgeons, a Locum Consultant along with 5 middle grade registrar level training including 1 SpR from the Mersey Deanery training programme. There are two SHO level staff and one FY1 and FY2. The Department has recently undergone a refurbishment, to provide day-case urology and therapeutic services to include TRUS-Guided prostate biopsy lists, an endoscopy suite, dedicated lithotripsy sessions and specialist out-patient clinics. The department has inpatient beds based on the 3rd floor within the Surgical Department. Paediatric beds are also available on the main hospital site.
The department uses one of the two dedicated purpose built modern integrated laparoscopic surgery theatres for its heavy laparoscopic workload. Currently, major laparoscopic Nephrectomies and prostatectomies are performed in this OR. A 12 bedded Intensive Care/High Dependency Unit is located on the first floor of the hospital. There are excellent pathology facilities, including a Public Health Laboratory. The Radiology Department offers a full range of facilities, including CT, MRI and fully functional intervention radiology service.
The post holder will provide elective and emergency inpatient services, along with other members of the department. The post holder will also participate actively in the Department’s Clinical Audit Programme and Continuing Professional Development, which is fully supported by the Health Board.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH WALES?
North Wales has a vast national park, purpose built mountain biking trails, a breath taking coastal path, soaring zip wire, food festivals and world class sport and adventure around every corner. The North Wales is equipped with sport and leisure centres that provide opportunities for a wide variety of sporting, fitness and recreational activities. Not only does it have lots of activities for you, it also has a wide selection of private housing is available, both traditional and modern in towns, villages and rural settings.
For doctors with family, the educational standards are consistently high in both the primary and secondary sectors. There are several well established independent schools within North Wales and the surrounding area that cater for both day pupils and boarders. The regional University with its excellent scholastic reputation has a thriving student community. You can say goodbye to heavy inner city commuter traffic, and enjoy a breath-taking commute across North Wales.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS HEALTH BOARD?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD. Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Urology
- Board Certified Specialist in Urology
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Urology
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Urology
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT