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The BMA supports IMGs and international doctors become doctors in the UK

For almost 200 years, the BMA has been supporting doctors. We understand the importance of having guidance when settling in the UK, which is why membership will be free to all international doctors and international medical graduates (IMGs) in their first year living in the UK.

We’re there when you need us.

We’ve been representing doctors for 190 years, so we know exactly how it is for international doctors, such as trust grade or clinical fellows, who are new to the UK.

We know the challenges you might face, which is why we offer help to understand immigration and guidance with how the NHS works, from operations to ethics.

We know that you need support at work, so we provide individual employment advice, access to specialist legal and financial services, and we can help with issues that affect your pay and the terms of your contract.

We know that your work can be challenging - so we provide confidential wellbeing advice and support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as well as counselling for you and your family.

We know that you’re looking to progress during and after training in the UK; so we provide access to BMJ learning, a tool that gives you access to hundreds of CPD-accredited modules where you can learn clinical and non-clinical skills for every aspect of your professional development.

We’re now offering free membership for all international doctors, such as trust grade or clinical fellows, in their first year living in the UK.

We’ll look after you. You look after your patients.

Join the BMA

What our IMG members say

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As an IMG, it is often difficult to achieve a career goal. Comprehensive support from BMA can make the journey easier. Whether it is a visa problem or a workplace bullying issue I always get help and expert advice from BMA. Thank you, BMA.
Dr Ismot, locally employed doctor

All the backup you need

We’ve been on call for the medical profession for a long time. That’s why we offer backup and assistance to doctors throughout their career, from learning & development, through contract and pension support, to someone to talk to if you need them, and much more.

Discounted membership cost

1st year living in the UK.

Offer includes all of the above benefits.

FREE *

2nd year living in the UK

Offer includes all of the above benefits

£10.50 per month *

3rd year living in the UK

Offer includes all of the above benefits

£20.75 per month *

* Standard membership cost

For comparison, normal membership prices are:
1st year = £20 per month
2nd year = £20 per month
3rd year + = Relevant rate based on YSQ

 

Included in your membership

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A case that looked impossible at first glance, with his help [BMA employment advisor] I came out of it, quoting my director 'without a scratch' all due to the help of the BMA.
Dr Derek, IMG and GP Specialty Trainee
Apply online for instant access to member benefits

1. Complete our easy online application form in 5 minutes.

2. You’re a member! Start enjoying your benefits straight away.

3. We’ll send you a welcome pack in the post.

Joining the BMA: FAQs
When do I start receiving support?

We are here to help from the moment you join us. If you have a need that predates your BMA membership, assistance may be limited to telephone and email advice only. Contact the BMA to discuss any issue you have and we will let you know where you stand.

How long is a membership period? Can I just join for one month?

BMA membership is a recurring yearly membership. The subscription year runs from 1 October to 30 September.

Am I eligible for a discount?

New - membership will be free to all doctors in their first year living in the UK, the second year will be at a discounted rate, equivalent to a first-year resident doctor member.

Find out more about subscriptions costs

Do I have to pay by direct debit?

We only offer direct debit as an option when joining online, with the ability to pay monthly or as an annual payment. It is possible to discuss other options for payment with our Membership Services team via our employment advice form.

Can't find the answer to your question?

See our full membership FAQs page for more information about joining or get in touch.

See all membership FAQs

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