Medical Training Initiative (MTI) for Medicine Doctors
- November 22, 2022
Here we take a closer look at the Medical Training Initiative (MTI) for international doctors practicing medicine and its sub-specialties.
Whilst the MTI describes a UK-wide placement scheme for junior overseas doctors, the processes involved vary between specialties.
This blog focuses on the MTI scheme as administered by the RCP, and the particular of this are summarised below along with a broad look the following:
- What is the Medical Training Initiative?
- What is the RCP and what support does it provide throughout my training?
- Am I eligible for an MTI post?
- Are there any additional requirements for the RCP?
- How can I use the MTI for GMC registration?
- What does the application process for the MTI through the RCP involve?
- How am I supported in obtaining a visa?
- I’m coming to the end of the MTI, what’s next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
The Medical Training Initiative
The Medical Training Initiative, or MTI, is a training programme that provides junior doctors from all over the world the opportunity to gain clinical training and development in the UK for a maximum of 24 months.
The MTI as a training scheme is mutually beneficial for both junior doctors and the NHS, in that doctors from several countries and specialisms around the world can work and train in the UK, gaining knowledge and experience which they can take back to their home country, while giving NHS Trusts a high-quality, longer-term alternative for unfilled training vacancies and rota gaps.
Royal College of Physicians (RCP)
The Royal College of Physicians is the professional body that regulates medicine specialties in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
Take a look at IMG Resources library for complete guides on MRCP to learn more.
There are several ways you will be supported by the RCP as listed below:
- Induction – all MTI candidates are expected to attend an induction at the RCP. The induction is held on a quarterly basis
- Free ePortfolio access – this is an electronic portfolio to log all your assessments and training whilst in the UK
- Free RCP associate membership – this is for the first year and discounted rate for the second year and comes with a number of benefits
- Annual symposium – this is a clinical conference for all RCP MTIs held once a year
- Diploma in UK Medical Practice – participants are required to carefully document their training using the ePortfolio system, complete a range of continuing medical education sessions, and submit a written reflection piece at the end of their placement
- RCP certificate - at the end of training there is an RCP certificate available to all candidates
- Support for any issues that you might encounter relating to your training
Eligibility
The MTI has been designed specifically with junior doctors in mind, therefore sponsorship will not be offered to consultants, specialty doctors or for locum-appointed service posts (LAS).
The eligibility criteria differ among MTI programmes, but for the RCP, eligibility includes the following:
- Country Requirements - Priority is given to doctors from countries classified as low income or lower middle income by the World Bank and priority countries as described by the Department for International Development. Doctors from outside these countries may also apply, but there may be a long wait time and no guarantee of acceptance.
- Primary Medical Qualification: You must hold a recognised PMQ by the GMC and verified by Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
- Have a Postgraduate Medical Qualification: This can be MRCP Part 1, MD or other higher degree in medicine or a medical subspecialty
- Skills & Competencies: You must possess the skills, competencies and understanding of medicine at least equivalent to a UK graduate at the end of their core medical training.
- Clinical Experience: You must have 3 years post-qualification experience, including 1 year's internship and at least 1 year in the specialty in which you intend to train while in the UK
- Active Medical Practice: Candidates must have been actively practicing clinically for at least three out of the last five years including the past 12 months before the application as well as throughout the application process (the GMC does not consider clinical observerships as clinical practice).
Please note, the RCP cannot sponsor doctors who have failed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test.
Additional Requirements
Before you can make an application for the MTI scheme through the RCP, the following criteria must be satisfied:
- Verification of PMQ – your primary medical qualification must be independently verified by the ECFMG via their EPIC service.
- Complete an English Language test – the test must have been completed within two years of application for GMC registration.
- Find an NHS job before applying for the MTI – you are required to apply directly for an NHS post and should have already been formally offered the role before contacting the RCP. The hospitals should also be in support of your intention to seek sponsorship for the post.
- Obtain funding - you should already have funding for your post from either a scholarship, official funding, or a salary. The funding should be equivalent to a UK salary for the level of work being undertaken and must last for the duration of the post. The RCP will not sponsor applicants who are self-funded.
- Certificate of Good Standing - you must be able to provide a certificate of good standing (CGS) from the regulatory body in the countries where you have practised in the last 5 years. The CGS should be no older than 3 months when submitted.
GMC Registration
All doctors practicing in the UK must be registered with the GMC. For MTI candidates, registration is typically supported by the Royal College, but some NHS Trusts also have the right to register MTI doctors.
English Language Testing – candidates will also need to provide evidence of English language skills. This can be done by passing either IELTS with overall score of 7.5 and 7.0 in all categories or OET with minimum grade B in all categories. Further information on these tests can be found below:
Application Process
Once you fulfill all the eligibility criteria and additional requirements laid out by the RCP, you must complete the initial and professional postgraduate experience (PPE) forms and email these along with your CV to mti@rcplondon.ac.uk.
Once your CV, initial form and PPE forms have been received, the RCP will contact the supervising consultant in the UK and confirm the details of your post. You will then be sent an application pack. You should complete the application form and send it to the RCP with all of the following documents:
- sponsor form (forms will be provided by the RCP) – must be completed by your consultant or head of department in your home country
- two reference forms (forms will be provided by the RCP)
- copy of your passport
- copy of your IELTS/OET certificate or details of exemption
- copies of your medical qualifications
- translations of your medical qualifications if they are not in English
- letter from the dean of the medical school from which you graduated
- copy of certificate of good standing
- letter from the UK hospital confirming your appointment
- evidence of funding for the post
- your statement agreeing to the level of funding which you have received from any of the sources listed
- initial fee of £125
We’ve detailed the general processes involved in MTI applications through the RCP below, from a candidate securing an NHS post, to their eligibility to work in the UK after gaining GMC registration and securing a visa.
Tier 5 Visa for MTI
The MTI scheme falls under the Tier 5 government authorised exchange visa. This visa must only be used for travel to the UK at the beginning of the placement and will activate after your arrival, lasting for exactly 24 months from your arrival date.
For a Tier 5 MTI visa, the RCP needs to provide evidence regarding your post to the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC - the official visa sponsor) once the GMC has approved your application in order to get your Tier 5 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued.
Once your Tier 5 CoS has been issued it is your responsibility to apply for the Tier 5 visa via https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas.
Applications for Tier 5 visas must be made in your home country (or the country you work in), but never from within the UK.
You can also apply to the AoMRC for Tier 5 dependent visas for your spouse and children, although this is not guaranteed, and you should read the UKVI requirements on this well in advance.
Please note that Tier 5 visas cannot be extended.
Sources
https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/education-practice/advice/medical-training-initiative
https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/file/19236/download
https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/file/23841/download
https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/file/4534/download?token=QyAzDCP8
What are my options after I complete the MTI?
Ordinarily, on completion of the MTI scheme, doctors return to their home country with the training and experience they gained from working in the NHS.
Some doctors may want to remain in the UK after completing the MTI for a number of reasons. This can be done if the doctor finds another NHS post, in which case, they may be able to switch from the Tier 5 visa to the Tier 2 Health and Care Worker visa.
If you want to find another NHS post after completing the MTI, you would follow the same process as any other doctor. You will need to consider what job it is you would like to obtain and what location in the UK you would prefer to relocate to.
For guidance on NHS jobs in your specialty, please see our live jobs or get in touch with us to learn more about your options in the NHS.
For regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, GMC registration and working in the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation:
Relevant Jobs
A large NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of specialty doctors and junior trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
FRCR (or equivalent) and extensive oncology experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide comprehensive non-surgical oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy clinics, for patients across lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal tumour sites.
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Participate in the oncology on-call rota (1:12) and provide reciprocal cover for colleagues during periods of leave.
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Support the education and training of junior doctors, specialty doctors, ACPs, and medical students.
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Contribute to clinical governance, service development, and research initiatives across the Trust.
LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
This role is based in the East Midlands, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in Derby or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful Peak District on its doorstep, the East Midlands is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
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CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
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Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
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At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
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Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
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Travel Arrangements
A hospital in the Channel Islands is looking for a Staff Grade Doctor in General Medicine with interests in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly. The department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full registration with the General Medical Council and a minimum of 2 years of post-qualifying experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly should apply. The salary will be between £58,742 and £97,050 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide high-quality care across both inpatient and outpatient services within the chosen specialty.
- Participate in the middle-grade tier rota, including on-call duties.
- Support the clinical management of patients in various units, including emergency and intensive care.
- Collaborate with consultants and multidisciplinary teams to ensure continuous service improvement.
LIFE IN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS
The hospital is located in a vibrant town, with popular residential areas offering both urban and rural living options. The region offers excellent schools, efficient transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities for both adults and families, including beautiful beaches, sports facilities, and cultural events. The area has a rich history, having been a strategic location during World War II and now boasting a unique blend of cultural influences.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
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The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
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Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
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Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
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Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.
Life in Kent
The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.
Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS general hospital in Wales is seeking a Locum Consultant in Geriatric Medicine with a special interest in Orthogeriatrics. The department includes a team of 9 consultants and is supported by a large middle grade doctor team. This Geriatric Medicine role welcomes both UK-based and international applicants, especially those holding MRCP(UK) or equivalent qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants should hold full GMC registration and MRCP, with solid experience in general and geriatric medicine. Subspecialty interest in Geriatric Medicine is desirable
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Oversee inpatient care for 15–20 patients alongside a multidisciplinary team
- Supervise and collaborate with junior medical staff and allied professionals.
- Provide one outpatient clinic per week in geriatric medicine or a relevant subspecialty.
- Take part in education, audits, and continuous service improvement projects.
LIFE IN WALES
This role is based in a picturesque Welsh town offering both urban convenience and rural tranquility, with popular residential areas including charming market towns and countryside villages.
The region provides great schooling options, strong transport connections, and plenty of family-friendly leisure activities.
Historically rich, the area features medieval architecture and has played a significant role in Welsh and British history.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
- Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide systemic therapy services for patients across UHMB sites.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.
Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).
Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.
LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA
The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care