UK Visitor Visa for PLAB 2
- November 05, 2021
If you have already read our overview on PLAB you will know that the second part of the test is held in the UK and you will need a UK Visitor Visa to sit the PLAB 2 examination.
Here we put together the main information you will need as well as useful links to get you started and we will look at the following:
- How do I apply?
- Online application for UK Visa
- What supporting documents do I need to prepare and provide?
- What costs can I expect in the UK?
- What happens if my visa application is refused?
The first thing to suggest, is that as soon as you receive your PLAB 1 results, start planning the date that you want to sit PLAB 2. This will not only help you prepare for the test itself, but also will ensure that when you apply for the Visitor Visa, you will be prepared for your Visa application and appointment, and able to visit the UK within the 6-month visa period.
No matter the guidance and instructions, visa applications can prove different for everyone, so start working on the application early.
If you are not sure if you need a Visa – you can check here.
You can apply for a ‘Standard Visitor Visa’ if you are a doctor and are coming to the UK to take the Professional Linguistic and Assessment Board (PLAB) test 2. The option you require is a “Work, Academic visit or Business” visa and the duration is less than six months.
How do I apply?
The UK Visa Application for PLAB 2 can be described in two parts:
- Online application for the required type of visa.
- Submission of supporting documents and providing biometric data (photo, fingerprints) at a visa application centre.
Let’s take a look at each part in more detail.
Online Application for UK Visa
As part of the online application, you will be required to book an appointment at a visa application centre, you can check the locations available here.
You can complete the application in stages; however we advise you prepare all the required documentation first, and the complete the online form and upload everything you need in one go.
A standard UK visa currently costs £100.
Supporting Documents
It is important to note that the required documents will vary from person to person, however two documents are necessary for every applicant:
- Your valid Passport
- The email confirmation of your PLAB 2
You will then typically require the following:
- Cover Letter
- If your trip is self-funded you will need:
- Salary certificate
- Bank Statements
- Letter of Support from your financial guarantor (if applicable)
This is only required if your trip is financed by another person (i.e. family member).
- Affidavit affirming the declaration of the financial sponsorship
This is done before a notary public. This will have to be translated into English.
- Letter of recommendation
Any letter of recommendations will need to come from senior colleagues at your current workplace.
- Bank Statements
Typically 6 months (yours / your sponsors).
- Monthly payslip
A clear copy is needed with all information visible.
- Income/Salary Certificate (Yours/Sponsors)
- Evidence of Home Address
Deeds or Nationality Certificate or Home electricity bill where the address is written. This will need to be translated and notarised.
- A ‘No Objection Letter’ issued by your employer
A ‘No Objection Letter’ for visa is a legal certificate issued by your employer agreeing for you to take off the days for you visit to the UK. In addition, the letter states that you have contractual obligations to return to your country of residence at your workplace.
- Confirmation of your accommodation in the UK
Or, invitation letter from friend or family of whom you will be staying with. You may also require a Council tax and utility bill of the accommodation address. If it’s a family that you’re staying with, you don’t need to worry about proving Sponsorship. If they are just providing accommodation (and your father or mother is your financial guarantor), a simple invitation letter stating your name, your passport number, duration and purpose of your stay is sufficient along with their contact details. The council tax and utility bill is just to prove that the address exists by their name.
- Evidence of family members in your home country whilst you travel
These would include Passport copies or National ID copies of your family members.
Online Application Required Entries
- Your name.
- Passport details.
- Your National ID number, if you have one.
- Your email.
- Travel information/plan: The date you will arrive in UK and the date you will leave from UK. The arrival date is more important. The itinerary in your cover letter should explain this in more detail.
- Choose business, including sports and entertainment as the main reason for your visit.
- After answering No’s to organised group, travelling with partner, visiting a company or getting paid for business activities—Choose Take the PLAB or OSCE.
- In Give details, write down your full itinerary, taken from your cover letter in full sentences.
- Personal information: Your home address.
- Parent details: Father’s and mother’s name, dates of birth.
- Employment details.
- If you are employed and sponsoring yourself, then IMG recommend you arrange for two papers from your employer from the above list a) Salary Certificate b) No Objection Certificate.
- Your own bank account details with bank statements (for the last six months).
- How much money are you planning to spend on your visit.
- Details of who is covering the costs, if you don’t.
- UK accommodation details.
- Travel histories in UK or other countries.
- Any details of visa refusals
- Other histories regarding whether you have any criminal convictions.
- Any other relevant information you wish to provide, you can leave this blank.
Finally comes the declaration page which asks you to choose an appointment (date and time) with a visa application centre. Please note that you don’t have to choose immediately, especially if you don’t have all the supporting documents ready. Just save it there and a link will be sent to your email. But as above, at IMG Connect we recommend that you have all the supporting documents prepared before starting your UK Visitor Visa for PLAB 2 application.
UK Costs
Whilst the exam is taken in one day, we advise for candidate to allow themselves a few days for acclimatisation and revision prior to the exam. When budgeting, make sure that you book flights, hotels and UK transport to and from the airport in advance to save money.
Once in the UK, a typical low-cost budget for a comfortable stay will include approximately:
- £40 - £60 per night for accommodation depending on your test venue
- £15 - £30 for food per day
- £20 for transport per day
- £60 for Airport transfers (return journey)
*remember to consider flights & travel insurance costs in your total budget
Always remember to use price comparison websites or Airbnb to find the best value for money and close to transport & test venues.
Visa Application Refusal
You will receive a letter from the Home Office detailing the reasons for rejecting the application. Don’t worry, you can apply again.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor 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
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS jobs & hospital locations for you.
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
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
An exciting opportunity awaits motivated Paediatricians in the UK to join a dynamic team at the forefront of revolutionizing child health services. This full-time post, tailored for Specialty Doctors in Paediatrics, supports the reconfiguration of child health services in response to recent centralization efforts. Collaboration within a forward-looking General Paediatrics department ensures compliance with standards and ongoing training. Overseas Consultants seeking to establish themselves in the NHS or experienced IMGs are encouraged to apply.
Serving diverse populations, the Health Board provides comprehensive healthcare services across several regions. With a dedicated staff of 11,000, they ensure safe and timely patient care, fostering a positive work environment. The Women and Children\'s Health Directorate plays a crucial role, with a focus on excellence and integrated services.
West Wales offers a blend of rural and urban living, featuring scenic landscapes and quality education options. Convenient transportation links connect to major cities and airports, with varied housing choices available.
The Health Board offers a Consultant Development and Mentoring Programme, aligned with NHS standards, fostering research and development opportunities. Clinical Research Facility initiatives further enrich career prospects.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Paediatrics
- Board Certified Specialist in Paediatrics
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Paediatrics
- Eligibility for GMC registration
- OET or IELTS (candidates who have booked their test and have good levels of English will be considered)
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Paediatrics
This is a unique opportunity to work in a developing initiative that will bring immense social good to the local the people of Wales.
Short / mid / long-term ambitions for this role.
Short-term, there is the opportunity to work a close group of four international doctors, with specialist qualifications in histopathology including FRCPath. You\'ll have the opportunity to shape the careers of hungry pathologists ready to absorb all the knowledge and experience from an experienced NHS colleague like yourself.
Mid-term you\'ll be jointly responsible for the successful portfolio submissions for these individuals, helping the laboratory at Glangwili General Hospital to establish a newly qualified consultant team to provide stability and excellent pathological services for the patients of Wales, UK.
Long-term, the potential is enormous. As part of ‘A Regional Collaborative for Health’ or ARCH a regional hub for South and West Wales is being built in Swansea, to house a 30-35 consultant lead service for histopathology alone. Fully digitalised regional services for half the Welsh landmass would be provided via one central and digitalised hub.
Life in the area
It\'s a beautiful life with Wales offering beaches, beautiful forest, lakes and mountains all available to you in your free-time. It\'s a low cost of living and a a bit of a dream for the right person. We can chat more about that over our call.
The UK Lab is based in Surrey, and the facility is ISO 15189 accredited and ISO 27001 certified.
The department provides the latest technology and several years of extensive research offering highly effective treatment solutions to cancer patients for whom, multiple lines of treatment have failed.
The UK lab receives samples that are received from private practices around the UK, Europe and USA.
Responsibilities:
With roughly two hours of work needed per day, mostly remote, with twice weekly attendance onsite likely required, the pathologists responsibilities will be along the lines of the below.
- Authorisation of reports (molecular and tissue)
- Sectioning slides / assessing tumour content - to help identify which sections can be used for processing samples.
- Approving & signing reports.
- Signing out molecular reports - training will be given.
- Signing out solid organ cancer reports
- Turnaround time is required within 24-hours.
Eligibility:
- GMC registration
- Right to work in the UK
- Ability to travel twice per week to Surrey, UK.
- FRCPath or Specialist Registration is not required for this post
An exceptional NHS job opportunity awaits a Middle Grade Microbiologist to join the Microbiology Pathology Department at an \"outstanding\" rate NHS Trust.The role involves diagnosing and managing infections caused by microorganisms, contributing significantly to patient well-being.
This is an ideal chance for overseas Microbiologists or Middle Grade Doctors to establish themselves in the UK NHS system, with potential CESR support. Suitable for EEA-specialized candidates or experienced IMGs seeking career advancement.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
This NHS Foundation Trust is a dynamic organization with an £180 million turnover, employing 12,000 staff to serve 500,000 people across acute and community healthcare services. Recognized for excellence by the CQC in 2016 and 2019, it primarily serves an urban population but extends its care across a rural expanse from the River Tyne to the River Tweed, offering picturesque landscapes. The Trust operates three major hospitals and numerous community facilities, including the state-of-the-art Specialist Emergency Care Hospital. With ongoing capital investments, it ensures modern, purpose-built facilities and expands its services to meet evolving healthcare needs.
They provide an extensive array of specialties, boasting some of the region\'s largest specialist departments. These include the foremost trauma and orthopaedics service, a significant cardiology department, and one of the region\'s most expansive units for colorectal surgery services.
The NHS Foundation Trust prioritizes supporting its staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance, irrespective of individual circumstances. Applicants unable to work full-time due to personal reasons will still be considered for the position, and adjustments to job responsibilities can be discussed on a case-by-case basis upon appointment.
What is the Department & Team like?
The Clinical Support and Cancer Services Business Unit manages Radiology, Pharmacy, and Pathology departments, as well as cancer services, across several hospitals. These services also extend to six community hospitals. With modern facilities and dedicated staff, the Pathology department, including the microbiology laboratory, benefits from significant capital investment and supports medical education initiatives.
The Microbiology team offers clinical consultation services through various channels such as ward rounds, telephone, email, and multi-disciplinary team meetings. They collaborate closely with Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Control, Public Health teams, and the laboratory. Encouragement for networking with Consultant Microbiologists in the Newcastle area is given to improve patient care across organizational boundaries.
The microbiology laboratory holds a central position within the hospital complex. It comprises 240 m² of laboratory space and 74 m² of office space, established during the hospital\'s original construction in 1987. Specimens from clinical areas within the North East site are transported to the laboratory via a vacuum air tube system, while collections from GP practices and other hospital sites across the region are managed through regular courier and van services.
Life like in North East
The North East of the UK offers a diverse landscape, blending urban hubs like Newcastle and Sunderland with picturesque rural areas. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, from historic sites like Durham Cathedral to sandy beaches along the Northumberland coast. The region hosts reputable universities such as Newcastle University and Durham University, complemented by excellent schools. Transportation links are robust, with rail and road networks connecting to major cities and airports like Newcastle International Airport. Housing options range from city center apartments to suburban family homes and quaint countryside cottages, catering to varied lifestyles and preferences.