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:
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
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.
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:
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:
Please note, the RCP cannot sponsor doctors who have failed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test.
Before you can make an application for the MTI scheme through the RCP, the following criteria must be satisfied:
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:
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:
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.
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.
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
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:
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
Provide comprehensive non-surgical oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy clinics, for patients across lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal tumour sites.
Participate in the oncology on-call rota (1:12) and provide reciprocal cover for colleagues during periods of leave.
Support the education and training of junior doctors, specialty doctors, ACPs, and medical students.
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?
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
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
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:
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:
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.
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.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.
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.
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
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: