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 leading NHS cancer center in Manchester is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Breast Oncology with an interest in advanced radiotherapy treatments in particular. Candidates can work as either a clinical or radiation oncologist. The Clinical Oncology Breast Disease Group comprises a team of 10 consultants, supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurse clinicians, clinical fellows, specialist trainees, pharmacists, and research nurses. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, though those with GMC Specialist Registration or FRCR 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
Whilst specialist registration is not required, it is a preferred status for those interested in staying longer term given the opportunity to turn the post into a substantive role. Whatever the qualifications or registration type, candidates should have significant experience in the provision of radiotherapy for breast oncology patients. The salary will range from £105k to £139k per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver comprehensive clinical services for Breast Oncology patients, including radiotherapy and systemic therapies.
- Participate actively in multidisciplinary team meetings, including remote attendance of the North Manchester General Hospital MDT.
- Contribute to the team’s robust research portfolio, including advanced radiotherapy and systemic therapy trials.
- Participate in the department’s on-call rota, with a 1:20 frequency, covering patient consultations and reviews.
LIFE IN MANCHESTER
Manchester, a thriving city in the North West of England, offers a mix of urban vibrancy and nearby rural tranquility. Popular areas include the city center for urban living and the nearby Cheshire countryside for more relaxed, family-oriented lifestyles. The region boasts excellent schools, extensive transport links including Manchester International Airport, and a wealth of cultural, sporting, and leisure activities. Manchester\'s industrial heritage has shaped the city into a hub of innovation and culture, renowned globally for its contributions to music, sports, and science.
An NHS acute hospital in the UK is looking for a Consultant Physician in Care of the Elderly with an interest in Frailty, Orthogeriatrics, or Stroke Medicine. The Geriatric Medicine department comprises a team of experienced consultants supported by a large multidisciplinary team, including middle-grade doctors, therapists, and specialist nurses. This Care of the Elderly role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with a Specialist Register membership or suitable postgraduate 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
A postgraduate medical qualification and significant experience in geriatric and general medicine are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Frailty, Orthogeriatrics, or Stroke Medicine should apply. The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Manage inpatient care for elderly patients and support acute and outpatient services for frail older adults.
- Conduct same-day emergency care (SDEC) and rapid access outpatient clinics for older patients.
- Join the General Internal Medicine on-call rota and provide peer support within the department.
- Work collaboratively with community and social care teams to optimize care and streamline discharge processes.
LIFE IN LONDON
This role is based in London, the thriving capital. The area provides excellent transport links, a variety of leisure opportunities, and top-rated schools for families.
Rich in history and culture, the location offers an appealing blend of heritage landmarks and modern amenities, making it an exciting place to live and work.
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 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
A general hospital in the Channel Isles is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in medical dermatology, paediatric dermatology, and skin surgery. The dermatology department includes a lead consultant and is supported by a team of dedicated nurses and administrative staff. This dermatology role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, with preference given to those holding a GMC Specialist Registration or an equivalent Royal College qualification.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (CESR) can discuss their needs on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- A Primary Medical Degree and GMC Specialist Registration are required for this role, and those interested in skin cancer prevention and general dermatology are encouraged to apply.
- The salary will be between £102,090 - £152,196 per annum, depending on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Conduct outpatient clinics focused on medical and general dermatology, including minor procedures.
- Collaborate with Primary Care and other specialists for patient referrals and skin cancer prevention.
- Participate in weekly multidisciplinary team meetings focused on skin cancer.
- Provide mentorship and support for nursing staff within the dermatology department.
LIFE IN THE CHANNEL ISLES
The Channel Isles offer an idyllic coastal lifestyle with easy access to both the UK and France. Residents can enjoy the vibrant town life of St. Helier or the serene countryside across the island’s parishes.This area has excellent schools, convenient transport links to major UK cities, and diverse leisure activities including beach sports, hiking, and water sports. With its blend of British and French cultural influences and scenic coastlines, the area is ideal for work and family life. Historically, the Channel Isles are known for their rich heritage and distinctive cultural blend, offering unique historical landmarks and fortifications.
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
A hospital in a UK region is looking for a Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine with an interest in Anaesthesia (optional up to 2 PAs). The ICU team includes consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Intensive Care position is open to both international and UK-based applicants, with a preference for those holding European Specialist qualifications or Fellowship of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FICM) or AFICM.
Applicants seeking CESR support can have this discussed on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants must have a CCT in Intensive Care Medicine, and experience in an acute hospital setting in the UK. Anyone with AFICM/FFICM is encouraged to apply. The salary range is £93,666 - £126,281, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Daily ward rounds to ensure patients receive optimal care.
- Oversee and guide junior doctors and advanced care practitioners.
- Collaborate with other departments for clinical support and decision-making.
- Engage in teaching, research, and continuous professional development.
LIFE IN THE REGION
This hospital is based in a region known for its balance of urban and rural living, with vibrant cities and scenic countryside nearby. The region is perfect for families, offering excellent schools, good transport connections, and a wide range of leisure activities.
Historically significant, the area is home to famous landmarks and has played a crucial role in UK history, making it a culturally rich environment to live and work.
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
Full GMC registration and a license to practice with experience in Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Gynaecology and Upper GI Oncology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide a comprehensive Oncology service and expertise in the management of site specialist cancer services.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary teams to develop and support Oncology services.
- Supervise and manage junior medical staff, including supporting the service during colleagues\' leave.
- Undertake teaching, clinical audit, and research, contributing to local and national postgraduate education.
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is based in the North West of England, with the closest urban areas offering a range of living options from city life to more rural surroundings.
The region boasts excellent schools and transport links, with trains connecting to major UK cities, and plenty of leisure activities for adults and families, including access to outdoor activities and historic landmarks.
The North West has significant historical importance and features stunning landscapes, making it a desirable location to live and work.
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