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:  

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 

Finland 

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

105,504- 139,882

An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

  • Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

  • Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

  • Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

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

105,504- 139,882
An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in gynae and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade 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

This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide systemic therapy services for patients  across UHMB sites.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.

Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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
105,504- 139,882

An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

  • Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

  • Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

  • Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

 The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

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

105,504- 139,882

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in upper and lower GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade 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

This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in upper and lower GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide systemic therapy services for patients with upper and lower GI cancers across UHMB sites.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for lung and upper GI cancer and support associated administrative duties.

  • Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

  • Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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

£106,000 to £154,760
An NHS specialist cancer centre in Cardiff is looking for a Consultant in Clinical or Medical Oncology with an interest in Breast cancer. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade 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
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

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