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
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Acute Medicine Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established acute medicine department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Trust provides integrated acute and community services to around 900,000 people. As one of the top-performing NHS trusts in the UK, it is renowned for its high-quality patient care, research, and innovation. The Trust aims to deliver outstanding care and services, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. It is dedicated to developing new treatments and technologies that improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine department at this NHS Trust is a dynamic and supportive environment that deals with a high volume of emergency cases. The team consists of experienced consultants, junior doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic services, ensuring patients receive timely and effective treatment. The team is dedicated to delivering high standards of care, participating in national clinical audits, and contributing to research initiatives.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within acute medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The department is committed to the professional growth of its staff, offering numerous opportunities for continuous medical education, participation in clinical research, and leadership development programs. The Trust supports a culture of learning and innovation, ensuring that all staff members can achieve their career aspirations while delivering exceptional patient care.
Location
This NHS Trust is located in a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including two national parks and a picturesque coastline. The area boasts a high quality of life with affordable living costs, excellent schools, and a safe, welcoming community. The region offers a rich cultural heritage with numerous festivals, museums, and theatres, along with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. With excellent transport links, including rail and road networks, it is easy to travel to other parts of the UK.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Acute Medicine Department. They are looking to appoint an Acute & General Internal Medicine Consultant, a great opportunity to further your medical career in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The successful candidate will be the clinical lead and will drive the development and transformation of acute medicine, where patient-centered care is at the heart of the services. The role involves working within the Acute Assessment Unit, which consists of a 25-bed inpatient area including a 5-bed enhanced care area and an adjacent 6-space Ambulatory Emergency Care Unit.
Health Service
Working for this health service is professionally rewarding, offering high-quality, patient-centered care. Their clinicians lead in developing and managing services, supported by strong links with UK specialists. With a generous study leave budget, doctors are encouraged to pursue further education. Exciting developments include a new general hospital and a new mental health inpatient unit. They foster strong relationships between mental health, primary, and secondary care, promoting joint learning and teaching in their modern education center.
The health service, separate from the NHS, is an integrated, taxation-funded system, free at the point of delivery, managed by the Health and Community Services Department. This is a unique opportunity to help shape an integrated care system with closer political engagement than in the UK.
Department & Team
Medicine in this health service is fully integrated by age and specialty, with three medical wards: . The EAU has a 5-bedded Enhanced Care Area and a separate intensive care unit led by intensivists. The AEC Unit is supported by a SAS doctor and consultants. The department comprises a 16-bed EAU, staffed by 11 consultants, 8 SAS doctors, 7 FY1 doctors, 2 FY2 doctors, and 6 Clinical Fellows, organized into 8 medical teams and the EAU team.
The specialty of Acute Medicine is based within the Emergency Assessment Unit (EAU). The service includes a 25-bed Acute Assessment Unit (AAU) featuring 5 enhanced care beds and an Ambulatory Emergency Care (AEC) Unit. The post holder will work across both the AAU and the AEC.
Continued Professional Development
The health service offers further training & accreditation within psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The post holder will have ample opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, and experience through attendance at relevant courses, conferences, and locally organized CME events. Health & Community Services supports Continuing Medical Education with time and financial support, offering study leave of 30 days in 3 years, and an annual study leave allowance.
Life in the area
Living in the area presents significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate is notably advantageous compared to the U.K., and they provide a generous public sector pension scheme that isn\'t constrained by U.K. lifetime or annual contribution limits. The Consultant Contract closely mirrors the U.K. model but offers higher incremental levels. Incremental progression is automatic from points 1 to 17 on the pay scale based on satisfactory performance, while formal applications are necessary for points 18 to 20.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
• Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine
EEA candidates:
• Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine
• European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
• MRCP
• Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Specialist in Stroke Medicine to join this NHS Trust as a Specialist working in an established stroke department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome. In this role, you will be part of a dedicated team that provides high-quality care to patients with stroke conditions. The position is ideal for doctors looking to further their careers in a supportive and progressive environment. If you are an enthusiastic and committed professional seeking a challenging and rewarding opportunity in stroke medicine, you are encouraged to apply.
The NHS Trust
The trust serves a diverse population with a team of over 8,200 clinical and support staff. They run major acute services at several hospitals, including one with the country’s top-rated hyper-acute stroke unit. The Trust is renowned for its excellence in clinical services and medical education. The hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and they are committed to providing innovative and high-quality care. LNWH is dedicated to continuous improvement and strives to be a leader in healthcare delivery. By joining the Trust, you will be part of a team that values collaboration, excellence, and patient-centered care.
The Stroke Medicine Department & Team
The Stroke Medicine Department is recognized as the best in the country, offering comprehensive stroke services, including a hyper-acute stroke unit and a hyper-acute rehabilitation unit. The team includes specialists in stroke medicine, neurology, and rehabilitation, working collaboratively to provide exceptional patient care. The department is committed to a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that patients receive holistic and effective treatment. They pride themselves on their research and innovation, continuously seeking ways to improve stroke care. The team is supportive and welcoming, providing an excellent environment for professional growth and development.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Stroke Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The Trust ensures continuous professional development and career progression through extensive training and education programs. You will have the opportunity to attend national and international conferences, participate in workshops and seminars, and engage in research activities. The commitment to your professional development means you will receive the support and resources needed to achieve your career goals and enhance your expertise in stroke medicine.
Life in the area
The hospital is situated in a vibrant area that offers a mix of urban and suburban living, excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. The area is culturally diverse and well-connected to central London, making it an attractive option for international doctors and their families. With a lower cost of living compared to central London, the area provides a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. There are numerous cultural and social activities to enjoy, from local festivals to museums and theaters. The nearby natural areas of beauty, such as the Chiltern Hills and several parks, offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an ideal place to live and work.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Neurology Consultant (CESR Support) to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established neurology department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome. The role supports neurological services within the Trust, ensuring comprehensive clinical services for patients and the community. The post holder will engage with other consultant colleagues in developing future service models to meet the changing needs of patients using the neurology services.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Trust is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to its local community. The Trust serves a large population through its hospitals and community services, ensuring comprehensive care across various medical specialties. It has strong affiliations with regional neuroscience centers, fostering collaboration and excellence in patient care. The Trust continually strives to deliver innovative and transformative services, enhancing the quality of care and patient outcomes.
The Trust maintains a focus on integrated care, working closely with health and social care partners to provide seamless service delivery. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time, tailored to their individual needs. The organization is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all patients and staff are treated with respect and dignity.
The Neurology Department & Team
The Neurology department at this NHS Trust is committed to providing high-quality care to patients with neurological conditions. The department includes five consultant-level posts, an Associate Specialist, specialty doctors, and a deanery registrar, ensuring comprehensive and specialised care for patients. The team collaborates closely with regional neuroscience centers, benefiting from shared expertise and resources.
Specialist nurses in Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Epilepsy work closely with Consultant Neurologists, providing essential support and education to patients and their families. The department is focused on developing sub-specialty expertise and expanding services locally and regionally. It is an integral part of the West Yorkshire Neurology Network (WYNN), which aims to deliver innovative neurological services across the region.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Neurology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The successful candidate is encouraged to engage in clinical research, teaching, and development. The Trust supports ongoing professional development through various programs, ensuring that consultants can continually enhance their clinical skills and advance their careers.
Participation in the regional academic day organized by the regional neuroscience centers is expected, providing opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. This commitment to professional development ensures that the neurology department remains at the forefront of clinical excellence.
Life in Yorkshire & Humberside
The region offers a lower cost of living compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for international doctors and their families. With excellent schools, diverse communities, and convenient transport links to major cities, it provides a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. The area boasts a rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities and family life.
The combination of professional opportunities, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes this region a great place for doctors to advance their careers and enjoy a high quality of life.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Neurology
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Neurology
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience in Neurology
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Stroke Medicine Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established stroke medicine department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome. The role is designed for a dedicated and skilled doctor looking to advance their career within a supportive and progressive environment. This position is ideal for those who are passionate about providing top-tier stroke care and are eager to contribute to the continuous improvement of healthcare services.
What is the NHS Trust like?
The NHS Trust, formed from a merger in 1998, is the largest provider of acute hospital services to residents in its region. Serving a population of over 410,000 people, the Trust employs around 4,200 staff across multiple hospital sites. Known for its high-quality patient care and commitment to staff development, the Trust has consistently received positive ratings from healthcare regulatory bodies. With a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and innovation, the Trust is a forward-thinking organization that values the contributions of its staff and invests in their ongoing professional growth.
What is the Department & Team like?
The stroke service at the hospital includes a Hyper-acute Stroke Unit and Acute Stroke Unit, with additional support from early supported discharge services and a neurorehabilitation ward. The team consists of dedicated consultants, trust-grade doctors, and stroke specialist nurses. The department participates in an integrated stroke delivery network, ensuring a collaborative approach to stroke care across the region. The Stroke Medicine Department prides itself on its multidisciplinary approach, working closely with various therapists to provide comprehensive care for stroke patients. The team is actively involved in clinical research and quality improvement initiatives, striving to implement the latest evidence-based practices and enhance patient outcomes.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within stroke medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. Consultants are encouraged to participate in regular teaching sessions, workshops, and conferences to stay updated with the latest advancements in stroke care. Additionally, the Trust supports involvement in national and international research projects, providing opportunities for academic growth and contributions to the field of stroke medicine. The department fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional development, offering mentorship programs and structured career pathways to help consultants achieve their career goals and aspirations.
Life in South East
The location, situated in the heart of a beautiful region, is an ideal choice for international doctors and their families. Known for its picturesque countryside, the area offers a tranquil living environment with easy access to natural areas of beauty, such as hills and parks. The town boasts excellent schools, making it a great choice for families with children. It is well-connected with efficient transport links to major cities and airports, ensuring convenience for both personal and professional travel. The area is also rich in cultural diversity, offering a welcoming community with various recreational activities, restaurants, and shops to explore. With its blend of rural charm and urban amenities, the location provides a high quality of life for healthcare professionals and their families.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience in Stroke Medicine