Working in the UK as a European Oncology Specialist
- October 03, 2023
Understanding the status of your qualifications when registering with the GMC is critical to finding the best registration route for you and streamlining your journey to the UK and working in the NHS.
The breadth of global postgraduate oncology qualifications can confuse overseas oncologists as to the status of their qualifications in the UK. This blog aims to simplify subject, covering the following topics:
- How do I register with the GMC as a European specialist?
- I am on the Specialist Register - what type of post can I be offered?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
GMC Registration for European Specialists
When applying for GMC registration, all doctors must provide evidence of sufficient skills and knowledge. For oncologists from certain European countries (those within the European Economic Area or EEA), there is a group of relevant European qualifications which are accepted as sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge to practise in the UK.
These are Primary Medical Qualifications and European Specialist qualifications which provide eligibility for Full and Specialist Registration respectively.
European Economic Area (EEA) Countries
These are the countries from which a relevant European qualification would be accepted by the GMC*:
|
Austria |
Germany |
Netherlands |
|
Belgium |
Greece |
Norway |
|
Bulgaria |
Hungary |
Poland |
|
Croatia |
Iceland |
Portugal |
|
Cyprus |
Ireland |
Romania |
|
Czech Republic |
Italy |
Slovakia |
|
Denmark |
Latvia |
Slovenia |
|
Estonia |
Lithuania |
Spain |
|
Luxembourg |
Sweden |
|
|
France |
Malta |
Switzerland |
*When determining the eligibility of your EEA qualification, it is important to check the given dates and evidence required by the GMC for acceptance.
EEA Primary Medical Qualifications
If your primary medical qualification was awarded by a medical school in an EEA country, it may be a relevant European qualification. Oncologists with an EEA PMQ are eligible for full GMC registration with licence to practise.
You can find out whether your PMQ is eligible and what qualifications and evidence you need to send to the GMC to support your application here or by selecting your country from the table above.
EEA Specialist Qualifications
If your specialist qualification was awarded after the completion of an EEA training programme, it may also be a relevant European qualification. Oncologists with an EEA specialist qualification are eligible for direct entry to the GMC’s Specialist Register.
You can find out whether your European Specialist Qualification is eligible by searching for oncology within this list and checking whether your country’s evidence is accepted (if your country’s field is blank for oncology, your qualification would not be accepted for Specialist Registration).
You can then check what qualifications and evidence you need to send to the GMC to support your application here or by selecting your country from the table above.
NHS Posts for European Oncologists on the Specialist Register
The NHS post you would be eligible for as a European oncologist would be dependent on your level of experience with your postgraduate qualifications taken into account.
If you are on the Specialist Register for clinical or medical oncology, you are eligible fo substantive consultant positions in the NHS - meaning you can be offered a permanent consultant contract to work in the NHS.
Without GMC Specialist Registration, you can still work as a locum consultant on a fixed-term contract, and attain Specialist Registration via the CESR Portfolio Pathway.
Oncology Consultants are in high demand in the UK, and thus command competitive rates of pay.
As a Consultant Oncologist, the pay you will earn can be broken down as follows:
- Basic salary for 40 hours per week or 10 PAs (programmed activities)
- Pay for additional hours worked
- 37% premium for night hours worked
- Weekend allowance for hours worked
- On-call allowance
There are also other wage premiums that may be offered.
You can find the latest pay scales for NHS Consultants across the UK here.
Please use these pay scales as a guide, but bear in mind that you may be eligible for a different rate of pay than stated, based on experience and/or demand. It is therefore worth checking what you may be entitled to with your IMG Consultant.
Sources
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/eea-countries
IMG Connect are here to help
We hope this helps to clear up any doubts around registering to work in the UK as an EEA oncologist and securing an NHS post.
Get in touch with our oncology team if you have any further questions regarding EEA entry to the NHS, CESR or oncology in the NHS more broadly.
Relevant Jobs
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 or FRCR (UK) qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply.
The salary will be between £106,000 to £154,760dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-Contribute to outpatient and inpatient clinical care, including the Acute Oncology Service at Velindre Cancer Centre and providing advice to Health Board colleagues when on call.
-Participate in the Assessment Unit services
-Latest news & breaking headlines
-Engage in multidisciplinary team decision-making processes.
-Opportunities to deliver services at the new Velindre Cancer Centre (VCC) in Cardiff, scheduled to open in Spring 2027
LIFE IN CARDIFF
The hospital is based in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, offering a vibrant urban lifestyle. For those seeking a more rural living environment, the surrounding areas such as the Vale of Glamorgan provide picturesque countryside settings.
Cardiff boasts a range of educational institutions, excellent transport links including a comprehensive bus and train network, and leisure activities suitable for both adults and families. The city offers numerous parks, cultural venues, and sporting facilities.
Historically, Cardiff played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution, with its coal exports powering much of the world\'s industries. The city\'s docks were once among the busiest in the world, underscoring its importance 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
-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
An NHS hospital in Bath, South West England is looking for a Consultant Clinical or Medical Oncologist with an interest in either Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of 12 Clinical Oncologists, 8 Medical Oncologists, and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, specialist nurses, and research staff. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Experience and interest in Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Oncology is required.
- The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Manage patients with Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers, including systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
- Provide expert care in oncology inpatient and outpatient settings and contribute to multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
- Participate in clinical research, with access to a well-established clinical trials unit and national research collaborations.
- Engage in teaching and mentoring junior doctors, registrars, and medical students, with opportunities for leadership in education and training.
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 hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification 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 or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Manage breast cancer patients, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across the region.
- Deliver systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
- Participate in breast cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
- Supervise and teach junior doctors, registrars, and medical students.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST
The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.
The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.
Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes 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
An NHS Trust in the South West of England is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Oncology with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants, senior nursing staff, and a multidisciplinary team, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP/MRCPath 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
At least four years of postgraduate training, including two years in a relevant specialty, and full GMC registration are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services should apply. The salary will be between £59,175 and £95,400 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide continuity of care for patients being treated in the Oncology Day Unit and supervise patients admitted to medical wards with chemotherapy-related side effects.
- Participate in Acute Oncology Service (AOS) and multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings, liaising with consultants and specialist teams.
- Supervise chemotherapy administration, assess patients prior to treatment, and follow up on recently discharged patients.
- Support clinical trials by assisting in patient recruitment and follow-up.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST OF ENGLAND
This Trust is based in a lively city in the South West, offering a mix of urban and coastal living, with popular residential areas including city suburbs and the countryside. The region provides excellent schools, strong transport links across the UK, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities for professionals and families. The city has played a crucial role in British maritime and engineering history and continues to be a hub for innovation and creativity.
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
An NHS Trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This 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.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
10 years of oncology experience in a middle-grade role and full GMC registration are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 and £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide specialist Clinical Oncology input, including expertise in radiotherapy and Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT).
- Support site-specific MDTs (Multidisciplinary Teams) in either Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies.
- Deliver outpatient and inpatient care, including radiotherapy planning and chemotherapy prescribing.
- Contribute to the Acute Oncology Service and provide ward inpatient care.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This Trust is located in a major city in the West Midlands, offering easy access to both vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural locations. Popular residential areas nearby include a mix of city living and countryside retreats. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links to major UK cities, and a range of cultural, shopping, and leisure options. Historically, this area has played a vital role in Britain\'s industrial and automotive history and is home to a number of 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
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