The General Medical Council (GMC) is the
regulatory body responsible for the registration and oversight of doctors
practicing in the United Kingdom. In order to practice medicine in the UK,
international medical graduates (IMGs) must obtain registration with the GMC.
This process can be complex and time-consuming, but with proper planning and
preparation, it is possible to successfully navigate the registration process
and begin practicing medicine in the UK.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
The first step in the
registration process is to determine your eligibility. The GMC has established
certain eligibility criteria that must be met, including:
- Having
a valid primary medical qualification that is recognized by the GMC. - Passing
the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test or the
Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) exam. - Having
the necessary English language proficiency to practice medicine in the UK.
Step 2: Create an Account and Start Application Once you
have determined that you are eligible, you can begin the application process.
You will need to create an account on the GMC website and start the application
process by completing an online form. This form will require you to provide personal
information such as your name, address, and contact details.
Step 3: Gather and Submit Required Documents
As part of the
application process, you will need to provide various documents. These include:
- Proof
of your primary medical qualification - Your
PLAB and MRCP exam results - A copy
of your passport or national ID card - A
recent passport-sized photograph - Evidence
of your English language proficiency - Evidence
of your professional indemnity arrangements
Step 4: ID Verification
After submitting your application,
you will need to complete the ID verification process. This will involve
submitting a copy of your passport or national ID card, as well as a recent
passport-sized photograph.
The verification is done physically at Manchester or London, with prior appointment and has to be done in 6 months period.
Step 5: Final Assessment
Once your application and all
required documentation has been received and reviewed, you will be scheduled
for a final assessment. This assessment will be conducted by the GMC and will
be designed to evaluate your knowledge, skills, and abilities. If you pass this
assessment, you will be granted registration with the GMC and will be able to
practice medicine in the UK.
Step 6: Continuing Professional Development
As a registered
doctor, you will be required to maintain your registration by participating in
continuing professional development (CPD) activities and meeting other GMC
requirements. This can include attending conferences, workshops, and other
educational events, as well as completing online courses and self-assessments.
It is important to note that the GMC registration process
can take several months and it is advisable to start the process well in
advance of the intended date of registration. Additionally, it is important to
be familiar with all the requirements and the process as it may vary depending
on the country of primary medical qualification. The GMC website is a good
source of information and guidance on the registration process.
Cost of GMC Registration
The cost of registering with the GMC can vary depending on a
number of factors, including your primary medical qualification, the type of
registration you are applying for, and the length of time for which you are
registering.
The following are some of the costs associated with the GMC
registration process:
- Application
fee: This is a one-time fee that is required at the time of application.
The fee for 2023 is £433 - Annual
retention fee: Once registered, doctors are required to pay an annual
retention fee to maintain their registration. The fee is £433, currently. - Continuing
Professional Development (CPD) fee: Some CPD activities may also have an
additional cost associated with them.
It’s important to note that some of these fees are subject
to change and it is advisable to check the GMC website for the most current
fees. Additionally, some countries may have a reciprocal agreement with UK and
may have reduced fees or exemptions. It’s important to check with the GMC or
the relevant embassy or consular office in your country for more information.
How long does the GMC take for license issuance?
