This page is part of our toolkit for international medical graduates looking to apply for a visa. Use the menu on the left to navigate the steps needed to practise medicine in the UK.
Step 3 - apply for jobs
All members of the BMA receive the BMJ as a membership benefit. If you join while you are living abroad you will have access to the BMJ which contains BMJ careers.BMA tip
Step 4 - apply for GMC registration
Meanwhile, if you have met the requirements set down by the GMC, you will be granted registration.
You need to be on the UK medical register before you can do any clinical work or write prescription drugs in the UK.
You must have your registration in place before you start your job.
Find more information on the registration fee.
The process usually takes between one and three months and you should allow yourself plenty of time to complete it.
You will be issued with an online licence to practice.
GPs
If you want to practise as a GP (general practitioner), you will need to:
- join the GMC GP register
- apply to join the national performers list - a list of approved GPs who satisfy a range of criteria for working in the NHS
- register on the NHS GP induction and refresher scheme which offers practical support and assessments including placements and simulated surgeries.
NHS England provides financial support for those wishing to work in general practice in England.
You can also apply for the international GP recruitment programme.