Specialist Medicine - a Doctor's Route to the UK
- November 05, 2021
Which routes can overseas specialist medicine doctors take to GMC registration & securing jobs in the NHS?
All doctors in specialist medicine areas such as respiratory, gastroenterology, dermatology, endocrinology, neurology, cardiology, geriatrics, rheumatology and stroke medicine will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC). What these criteria are will depend on whether you are applying from inside or outside of Europe.
This article will prove relevant to all the medical specialties that fall within the various specialisms within medicine whilst also including haematology (MRCP + FRCPath is the complete set of qualifications) and other off-shoots such as infectious disease.
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 specialty 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
Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:
Relevant Jobs
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
An NHS hospital in a coastal region is looking for a Consultant in Dermatology with an interest in Inflammatory/Vascular Skin Disease. The Dermatology department comprises a team of 5 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and specialists. This dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with equivalent 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 GMC with a license to practice, and a higher degree in Dermatology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in surgical dermatology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead clinical activities for an outpatient caseload and conduct inpatient reviews.
- Perform consultations and minor operative surgeries, and attend wards to review inpatient referrals.
- Supervise and mentor junior clinical team members, including GPSI’s and Clinical Nurse Specialists.
- Contribute to service development, training, and participate in clinical audits and governance.
LIFE IN COASTAL REGION
The coastal region offers a blend of vibrant urban life and serene rural settings, with popular towns providing a lively atmosphere and beautiful coastlines. Families will appreciate the excellent local schools, while transport links, including direct train services to major cities, make commuting convenient. The area is rich in history, with landmarks and national parks contributing to its cultural significance in 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
- 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 district general hospital in the North West is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology. The haematology department comprises a team of three consultants and is supported by middle-grade doctors. This haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath 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
Applicants should hold full GMC registration and have CCT or equivalent qualifications in haematology. At least three years of higher training are required, and those with experience in haemato-oncology are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £90,000 to £139,000 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide a comprehensive haematology service, including haemato-oncology treatment.
- Participate in the on-call rota (1:4 weekends) and weekly MDT meetings.
- Collaborate with regional services for complex cases.
- Contribute to the department’s governance, audits, and professional development.
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is located in a vibrant city with both urban and rural living options. The region boasts excellent schools, transport links, and numerous outdoor and cultural activities. Historically, the area is known for its scenic beauty and significant landmarks.
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
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Short and long-term accommodation sourcing
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
We are recruiting for an experienced and motivated Consultant Physician in Gastroenterology to join a friendly and enthusiastic team in the North West of England.
This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who are interested in securing CESR within 1 - 2 years. The post involves out-patient and in-patient duties and a regular commitment to both in-reach into the medical admissions unit and on-call for general medicine.
Sub specialty interest will be encouraged where this contributes to and complements the department and Trusts’ service needs
What is the trust like?
The Trust was formed on 1 October 2019 with the merger of two large tertiary trusts partnering with wider areas of the North West of England to become one of the first 14 areas nationally to be confirmed as an Integrated Care System. The trust services to a half a million people. We’re responsible for delivering over 70 services across 15 main locations and we employ over 6500 members of staff.
What is the department like?
The team of 16 consultants including six consultant gastroenterologists and one specialty doctor in gastroenterology to provide an integrated digestive diseases service across the hospital. The department has two dedicated GI wards within the Infirmary for the treatment of inpatients. There is a dedicated 3-room endoscopy unit along with 2 dedicated rooms in a new, state of the art facility. There is a specialist GI physiology lab on both sites.
The Trust provides access to radiology services, CT scanning, including CT colonography and MRI (including MR enteroclysis), and medical physics imaging on two sites. The trust also has a radiotherapy and oncology on site at Carlisle with outreach services to the hospitals. There is a Palliative care consultant based on each site with links to hospice and community services.
CESR
International candidates are welcome and CESR will be supported. Direct input will be provided on a regular basis from the Clinical Director, with opportunity for shadowing, lists and portfolio building built into the job plan.
The team has recent experience of supporting IMGs with the CESR process, benefiting any newly appointed candidate.
The remainder of the appointee’s professional time will be deployed flexibly on other clinical duties, administration, teaching, research, clinical audit and continuing medical education. The Trust supports the requirements for continuing professional development as laid down by the Royal College of Physicians and is committed to providing time and financial support for these activities.
Career Development and Opportunties available
The posts represent a fantastic career opportunity for clinicians with drive and commitment to completing CESR and securing a permanent consultant post. The opportunity to work closely with an experienced consultant and management structure is excellent.This is an opportunity to join an organisation in which Clinicians are at the forefront of management.
The successful candidate will be encouraged to develop any particular interest she or he has and a timetable will be agreed in advance, to reflect the particular interests of the applicant, the specialist interests of the existing Consultants, and the needs of the Trust.There is considerable opportunity for an appointee to develop sub-specialist services
Life in the area
This is an opportunity to develop your career in supportive and friendly town in the North West of England, set in fantastic scenery. The local are is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, with national parks on your doorstep.
Cost of living in this area is excellent, making this a brilliant location to settle & buy property. The area provides excellent educational, cultural and sporting facilities, making this a fantastic location for families.
Am I eligible for this role?
To be eligible for this vacancy you will need the following:
EEA candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree
- Specialist Qualification in Gastroenterology
- IELTS or OET
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP(UK)
- GMC Recognised Qualifications
- IELTS or OET
UK-based candidates:
- Within six months of CCT or CCT Holder
This is a great opportunity for any experienced physicians interested in Gastroenterology looking to work in the NHS