Doctor Visa Route

Eligibility requirements

• 1Primary medical degree acceptable to the GMC
• 2GMC (General Medical Council) registration with a licence to practise
• 3Job offer from an NHS trust or approved independent healthcare provider
• 4Minimum salary of £49,923 (specialty registrar) or higher depending on grade
• 5IELTS Academic 7.5 overall (7.0 per band) or OET Grade B for GMC registration
• 6PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 exams passed (unless exempt via GMC-approved medical school)

Document checklist

• Valid passport
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• GMC registration certificate
• Primary medical degree and transcripts (notarised translation if not in English)
• IELTS/OET test results for GMC
• PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 pass certificates (if applicable)
• TB test certificate (if applicable)
• Bank statements or employer maintenance certification

Step-by-step process

1. 1

   Pass PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 (or qualify via GMC-approved route)

2. 2

   Apply for GMC registration and secure a licence to practise

3. 3

   Apply for NHS jobs through NHS Jobs or equivalent

4. 4

   Employer issues Certificate of Sponsorship once your start date is confirmed

5. 5

   Apply for the Health and Care Worker visa online and pay the fee

6. 6

   Attend biometrics appointment

7. 7

   Arrive in the UK and complete induction with your employing Trust