A guide on how to obtain GMC registrations for doctors outside the UK

The process for a doctor from outside the UK to obtain General Medical Council (GMC) registration can be broken down into several steps. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Determine eligibility: First, you need to ensure you're eligible for GMC registration. In order to qualify, you must hold a primary medical qualification that is recognised by the GMC. You can check the World Directory of Medical Schools to verify if your qualification is accepted.

English language proficiency: The GMC requires all doctors to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. You can do this by taking either the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET) for healthcare professionals. You must achieve the required scores to be eligible for registration.

Choose the right registration pathway: Depending on your qualifications, experience, and intentions, you'll need to choose the appropriate registration pathway. The most common pathways are:

a. Full registration with a licence to practise

b. Provisional registration with a licence to practise

c. Specialist registration

d. General Practitioner (GP) registration

Create a GMC Online account: To apply for registration, you must create a GMC Online account. This account will allow you to submit your application and track its progress.

Obtain Certificate of Good Standing: If you've previously held registration or a licence to practise medicine in another country, you may be required to provide a Certificate of Good Standing from the relevant authority. This document confirms your good standing and that you are not subject to any disciplinary or fitness-to-practise proceedings.

Pass the required assessments: Depending on your chosen registration pathway, you may need to pass one or more assessments. For example:

a. For full registration, you might need to pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test if you are an International Medical Graduate (IMG).

b. For specialist or GP registration, you might need to pass the relevant Specialty Certificate Examination (SCE) or an approved postgraduate qualification.

Complete the application: Through your GMC Online account, complete the application form for your chosen registration pathway. You'll be required to provide personal details, education and qualifications, English language proficiency, and any supporting documents.

Pay the application fee: The application process requires payment of a fee, which varies depending on your chosen registration pathway. The GMC's website provides information on the relevant fees for each pathway.

Attend an identity check: Once the GMC has reviewed your application, you'll be invited to attend an identity check at a GMC office or an approved location outside the UK. You must bring your original documents, including your passport, primary medical qualification, and proof of English language proficiency.

Receive your registration: After successfully completing the application process and identity check, the GMC will grant you registration with a licence to practise in the UK.

Please note that this is a general guide and individual circumstances may vary. It is essential to consult the GMC's website for the most up-to-date information and specific details on registration requirements.

Below is a list of useful websites and resources to assist you throughout the process of obtaining GMC registration as a doctor from outside the UK:

General Medical Council (GMC) - Main website: https://www.gmc-uk.org/
World Directory of Medical Schools: https://www.wdoms.org/
GMC Online Account Registration: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/gmc-online
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): https://www.ielts.org/
OET (Occupational English Test) for healthcare professionals: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/
Information on the PLAB test: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab
MRCP(UK) - Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom (for Specialty Certificate Examinations): https://www.mrcpuk.org/
List of approved postgraduate qualifications: https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/approved-postgraduate-qualifications
GMC guidance on fees: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/fees-and-funding

Please note that these are external websites, and it is essential to consult them for the most up-to-date information and specific details on registration requirements.

For further help and advice seek assistance from a Specialist International Healthcare Recruiter

Another valuable resource to help you find locum or permanent positions in the UK is Key Health Solutions (www.key-health.co.uk ). As a specialist international healthcare recruiter with expertise in recruiting international doctors for over a decade, they can assist you in finding suitable opportunities tailored to your specific skills and preferences.

To get started with Key Health Solutions, contact them via email at info@key-health.co.uk. Their team of experienced professionals will guide you through the process of finding locum positions in the UK and offer support throughout your career as a locum psychologist.

By leveraging the services of specialist healthcare recruiters like Key Health Solutions, alongside obtaining GMC registration and engaging with the broader UK doctor community, you will be well-equipped to build a successful and rewarding career as a Doctor in the United Kingdom.

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