A Medicine Doctor’s Route to the UK
- February 09, 2021
Which routes can overseas internal medicine doctors take to GMC registration & securing jobs in the NHS?
All Medicine doctors looking to secure a job and work in the UK, whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC). Here we cover all the medical specialties that fall within the broader reach of General & Specialist Medicine to include specialisms such as cardiology, respiratory medicine, dermatology, gastroenterology, haematology, elderly care or geriatric medicine and general & acute medicine.
The criteria you must 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.
“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 doctor 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.
As an EEA doctor, 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:
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
- OET – Occupational English Test
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 Library - GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European doctors 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 jobs than are readily available online.
Our network extends to psychiatry 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 General Medicine, 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.
IMG Library – Relocation & UK Life
Outside of the EEA
If you qualified as a doctor 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 General Medicine doctors, looking at the following:
- English Language Testing
- Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCP 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:
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
- OET – Occupational English Test
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 Medicine
Overseas doctors must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. This can be done through three main routes:
- PLAB
- Royal College qualification of MRCP
- GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications
Route 1 - 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 Medicine 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, international doctors 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:
PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors
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. medicine. For senior medicine doctors taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.
The Royal College of Physicians is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of medicine in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining MRCP will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK medicine.
Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Physicians to understand more: MRCP – 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 qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.
Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC: 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 dependant 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, MRCP or equivalent)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA doctors 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 general medicine 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 speciality knowledge of medicine, 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 Library – Relocation & UK Life
IMG Jobs
Specialist Medicine: Click here to find live NHS specialist medicine job opportunities in the UK
General & Acute Medicine: Click here to find live NHS general & acute medicine job opportunities in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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 job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:
Relevant Jobs
Are you a motivated and committed Consultant in Acute Medicine looking for NHS jobs and relocate in the UK? Then this opportunity is perfect for you!
Grab this chance and possibly start your career in the NHS! You will be joining a team that is always starting innovative ways of working to shape the future model of acute medicine. You will be able to take advantage of working within a multidisciplinary team that aims to deliver high quality care. The team is part of one of the largest NHS Trusts in the country, and not only that, it is rated \"good\" by the CQC! This is a great opportunity for overseas Consultants 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.
The department is a team of 7 enthusiastic and hardworking consultants that work within the Urgent Care CSU to drive forward their Acute Medicine and SDEC services. The department has two Acute Medical Units with a total of 57 beds and a co-located 4-bedded Enhanced Care Area, called HOBS (High Observation Area). They have a strong commitment to the delivery of same day emergency care which operates a 7-day services and sees approximately 400 patients per week, as well as delivering an excellent and established ambulatory VTE service. You will be given the opportunity to maintain and update your skills and knowledge through appropriate continuing professional development.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Work in all 3 areas of acute medicine (AMU, Enhanced Care and Same Day Emergency Care) and will contribute to the out of hours rota (currently 1 in 8).
- Work with the Trust and its consultant staff to deliver service patterns and job plans that meet this objective.
- Work in patterns that provide senior cover throughout 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
The department sits within one of the largest teaching hospital trusts in Europe, with access to leading clinical expertise and medical technology. They care for people from all over the country as well as the 780,000 residents of their surrounding area. The Trust has a budget of £1.4 billion, with 21,000 staff who ensures that every year they see and treat over 1,700,000 people in their 2,000 beds or out-patient settings, comprising 100,000 day cases, 125,000 in-patients, 260,000 A&E visits and 1,050,000 out-patient appointments.
You will be working in a bustling city that’s rich in culture and heritage. In addition, it is home to one of the largest train stations in the UK, which is conveniently located in the city centre. You will be living in one one of the best places to live in the UK, due to its affordable cost of living and friendly people!
Apply now and get the opportunity to work for an NHS Trust that always works to develop seamless, integrated care helps us to deliver high-quality local care for every patient every time!
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- MRCP
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
Join an established Acute Medicine Department who is committed to providing top-notch care to a large volume of acute emergency medical cases, including critically ill patients. With 780 beds, including 388 for Acute Medical/Elderly care, their facilities include the Acute Medical Unit, 8 Acute Wards, a newly established 10-bed Coronary Care Unit, and a closed ICU/High Dependency Ward. They also have specialized units, such as a Stroke Unit, Elderly Rehabilitation facilities, and Continuing Care beds.
The department is part of an NHS Trust, known for its commitment to delivering high-quality care and services. They received a \'Good\' rating from the CQC in 2019, with some areas recognized for outstanding practice. In 2021, they won gold in the Efficiency Savings of the Year award and were highly commended in the Health Tech Team of the Year award. The NHS Foundation Trust employs over 5,000 dedicated professionals. They are considered one of the region\'s top providers of healthcare services, serving a population of approximately 310,000.
You will have an opportunity for clinical research and have a strong research governance structure in place. The are committed to providing the right development opportunities to enhance your skills and deliver exceptional patient care. This NHS Foundation Trust is within a thriving industrial town with a forward-thinking vibe. Its vibrant city center offers a diverse range of cultural activities. The overall living environment and the surrounding countryside is delightful, with excellent residential areas offering various housing styles at competitive prices. The area boasts top-notch shopping, social, and educational facilities, including both comprehensive and independent primary and secondary schools.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
Discover an exciting opportunity as a Specialty Doctor in Acute & General Internal Medicine, you\'ll be a driving force in reshaping the future of acute care in the captivating region in Scotland! Embrace the chance to join a dynamic, forward-thinking team dedicated to revolutionizing medical care. The hospital you will be assigned to proudly serves its community, offering essential emergency, acute, and elective services. Be a part of a team that champions local care, ensuring patients receive support within their familiar surroundings.
Delve into the Medicine Department\'s transformation and collaborate closely with the Emergency Department, backed by adept hospital management. Experience unwavering support within a contemporary, well-equipped environment. The department sits within a health board that stands as a pillar of healthcare excellence in Scotland, collaborating with national bodies to deliver quality care. With around 14,000 staff, it oversees clinical governance and provides specialized hospital services. It serves as a tertiary and teaching center, delivering specialized care to the North of Scotland.
It is located in a place that captivates with its landscapes. From coastal tranquility to fertile expanses, this region offers a soothing commute amid picturesque beauty. Navigate well-maintained roads with a tranquil pace, enjoying a connection with nature as you journey.
The opportunity extends to education, with advanced facilities and affiliations with institutions like the University of the Highlands and Islands. For IMGs seeking CESR, this is your pathway to growth.
Seize the chance for leadership, teaching, research, and continued professional development. Whether a new consultant or an experienced practitioner, you\'ll thrive within a supportive network of high-caliber professionals.
In summary, embark on a journey that combines medical excellence, natural allure, and career growth. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute & General internal Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Specialists in Acute and GIM to join a Trust that have a national and international reputation for many of their specialist services - including stroke, renal, neurosciences, cancer services and trauma. The Trust also has a Mindful Employer Status and is committed to the Charter For Employers Who Are Positive About Mental Health. The post is suitable for candidates who\'ve completed their CCT or submitted their CESR Application to the GMC, the department also support special interest in Stroke, Geriatric Medicine, Acute Oncology, Haematology, Endocrinology, Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Respiratory, and Emergency Department
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST?
This trust is one of the biggest employers in the city with a central role in supporting the health and wellbeing of their local population. They also play a leading role in research, education and innovation.
The Trust has a specialist services that allows them to deliver care to 4.5m people from across the East Midlands and nationally for a handful of services and play a vital role in the education and training of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
WHAT IS THE ACUTE DEPARTMENT LIKE?
The trust has one of the busiest acute medical takes in the country and has recently benefitted from a multi-million pound investment to redesign and upgrade the working environment
The department consists of 14 consultants along with around 45 middle and junior grade doctors plus a growing team of Advanced Care Practitioners, Physician Associates and prescribing pharmacists. Acute Medicine has been a key partner of the Emergency Department in the formation of service-led, patient-focused “front-door” research ......
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS?
The area is a vibrant and prosperous city with something for everyone. It has excellent schools and colleges, and two thriving Universities. There are good theatres, an arena which attracts national and international performers, and several renowned arts centres and museums.
Set within a county of outstanding natural beauty that includes lively market towns and wonderful historic buildings, the city is one of the UK’s leading retail centres with a wide choice of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
There is a good network of roads with easy access to the M1 and the A1, the rail service to London (two hours) and other major cities is frequent, and there are numerous international destinations from East Midlands Airport (30 mins) and Birmingham Airport (60mins).
CAREER DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team. The Trust facilitates appropriate job plans, a clear framework for the delivery of medical education, and the opportunity to enhance clinical and teaching skills through Continuing Professional Development. Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
Consultants/Specialists who wish to undertake research require the approval of the Trust R&I Department and relevant ethical approval, and must adhere to the National Framework for Research Governance.
The role would also be active in clinical governance activities including (but not restricted to) clinical audit, incident reporting, review of complaints, risk management, CPD and Evidence-Based Practice.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity has risen for Consultant in Acute & General Medicine to be a part of a well-established service within an NHS Trust that aims to continue to build strong links and establish great service for urgent and emergency care services. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Acute & General Medicine, 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 THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST LIKE?
The NHS Foundation Trust teaching hospital full of hard working and dedicated staff providing community and hospital services across the area that covers a thousand square miles. The NHS Foundation Trust currently has 6,000 employees, and and provides services for some 350,000. They operate three main hospitals, as well as a number of community healthcare premises. Two of their main hospitals have a range of General Hospital services, with full Emergency Departments, Critical/Coronary Care units and various Consultant-led services.
All three main hospitals provide a range of planned care including outpatients, diagnostics, therapies, day case and inpatient surgery. In addition, a range of local outreach services and diagnostics are provided from community facilities across their area. The community services for adults are provided in people\'s homes, community centres, clinics, GP Practices, community hospitals and their main hospitals. They aim to work with people to help them remain independent, improve their health and manage their conditions through high quality care, advise and support.
They are absolutely committed to making the Trust a great place to be cared for and a great place to work through the delivery of the highest possible standards of compassionate care, as well as their research and education strategy to provide the very best patient and staff experience.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Acute Medical division is comprised of a 39 bedded Acute Medical Unit and an adjoining Ambulatory Care unit that sees and manages up to 30 patients per day. The team consists of the following a Substantive Consultant (Clinical Lead) – Acute and General Internal Medicine Substantive Consultant - Acute Medicine and Geriatrics, Substantive Consultant – Intensive Care and Acute Medicine, Substantive Associate Specialist, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Foundation Year Doctors (two), Acute Care Common Stem Trainee & Trust Grade Clinicians (two) – Ambulatory Care General Practice Trainee – Ambulatory Care.
The successful appointee will be expected to provide care for acutely unwell patients on the AMU, contribute to service development and quality improvement, provide care for patients seen on the ACU and provide leadership and work as part of and develop the team.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN LANCASHIRE?
Lancashire is a wonderful county in the North West of England. Beautiful rural countryside, award winning beaches, unique market towns and a wealth of social activities are just some of the coastal county. It is home to the Lancashire Coastline which represent some of the country’s most cherished landscapes, and across the region, you’ll find vibrant cities, historic market towns and some of the most beautiful villages.
Period properties are the name of the game in Lancaster, with Victorian and Georgian townhouses proving the most popular type of home with residents. There is also riverside living available, as well as properties built from the 1960s onwards. Lancaster was named one of the happiest places to live and work in the UK, so it’s safe to say that life in the city is good. From restaurants and shops to historic buildings and landmarks, there’s plenty to see and do in Lancaster.
Lancashire is one of the safest areas in the country with crime and other community safety issues, such as anti-social behaviour and road accidents at their lowest level for years. Around nine out of ten respondents to a recent Living in Lancashire survey consider their local area to be safe. There are so many outdoor activities available! From Go- Ape climbing centres, mountain biking, rafting, canoeing, tothe popular Brockhole Activity Centre with treetop nets and trampolining, there is plenty to explore.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR. Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT