Graduating from a medical school in the European Union (EU) is a major milestone, opening doors to exciting career opportunities across the world. Many EU medical graduates set their sights on the United Kingdom (UK), where they can build a rewarding career in healthcare. However, before they can start practising, they must complete one crucial step—registering with the General Medical Council (GMC).
If you’re an EU medical graduate planning to work as a doctor in the UK, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about GMC registration, including the different types of registration, eligibility criteria, and a step-by-step application process.
What is the GMC?
The General Medical Council (GMC) is the UK’s regulatory body for doctors. It ensures that all medical professionals meet the necessary standards of education, training, and ethical practice. The GMC plays a key role in protecting patient safety and maintaining trust in the healthcare system.
The GMC’s main responsibilities include:
- Licensing and registration – Ensuring all doctors meet UK standards before practising.
- Overseeing education and training – Regulating medical training programmes.
- Assessing international qualifications – Determining whether foreign-trained doctors are eligible to practise in the UK.
- Setting professional and ethical standards – Providing guidance on medical ethics.
- Evaluating fitness to practise – Investigating concerns about doctors’ performance or conduct.
For EU graduates, understanding the GMC’s requirements is essential for a smooth transition into the UK medical system.
Types of GMC Registration
Before applying, it’s important to determine which type of GMC registration you need based on your qualifications and career stage.
1. Provisional Registration
- For newly qualified doctors who need to complete their Foundation Year 1 (F1) in the UK.
- Allows you to work under supervision in an approved F1 post.
2. Full Registration
- Required for doctors who have completed at least one year of supervised practice (internship).
- Allows independent practice or progression into Foundation Year 2 (F2) and beyond.
3. Specialist Registration
- For doctors who want to work as consultants in the NHS or private sector.
- Requires completion of specialist training and certification.
4. GP Registration
- Necessary for doctors who want to work as General Practitioners (GPs) in the UK.
As an EU medical graduate, you will likely need provisional or full registration, depending on whether you have completed an internship.
GMC Registration Requirements for EU Medical Graduates
To apply for GMC registration, you must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide supporting documents.
General Requirements
- Medical Qualification
- You must hold a recognised EU medical degree (minimum 5,500 training hours).
- If the degree is not in English, a certified translation is required.
- Clinical Experience
- To apply for full registration, you must have completed a 12-month internship or equivalent supervised practice.
- If you haven’t completed an internship, you must apply for provisional registration and complete Foundation Year 1 (F1) in the UK.
- English Language Proficiency
- If English is not your first language, you must pass an approved test such as:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – Minimum score: 7.5
- OET (Occupational English Test) – Minimum score: B
- Native English speakers or graduates from English-speaking countries are exempt.
- If English is not your first language, you must pass an approved test such as:
- PLAB/UKMLA Exam Requirement
- Traditionally, EU graduates were exempt from the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) test.
- However, from 2024 onwards, all medical graduates (including EU-trained doctors) must pass the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) before obtaining full registration.
- Certificate of Good Standing
- You must provide a certificate from your medical regulatory body confirming that you have no disciplinary issues.
- Identity Verification
- A valid passport or national ID card is required.
- Activity History
- You must provide a five-year record of medical and non-medical activities, including study breaks, employment gaps, or clinical attachments.
- Declaration of Fitness to Practise
- A self-assessment confirming that you meet ethical and professional standards.
The GMC thoroughly checks all applications, so ensure that the information you provide is accurate and truthful.
Step-by-Step Guide to GMC Registration
Now that you understand the requirements, let’s go through the GMC registration process step by step.
Step 1: Obtain Your Medical Degree
Ensure you have a recognised EU medical qualification with at least 5,500 hours of training.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
Determine whether you qualify for provisional or full registration based on your internship and experience.
Step 3: Take the UKMLA Exam (If Required)
Starting in 2024, all graduates—including EU-trained doctors—must pass the UKMLA before obtaining full GMC registration.
Step 4: Take an English Language Test (If Required)
If English is not your first language, take IELTS or OET to meet the language requirement.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
Create a GMC online account and provide the following documents:
- Medical qualification certificate
- Internship details (if applicable)
- English proficiency test results
- Certificate of good standing
- Passport/ID
- Five-year activity history
Applications are usually assessed within five working days.
Step 6: Pay the GMC Registration Fee
As of April 2024, the GMC registration fees are:
- Provisional registration: £25
- Full registration: £174
Step 7: Provide Additional Evidence (If Requested)
If the GMC requests further documents, submit them as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Step 8: Complete the ID Check
Once your application is approved, you must verify your identity within six months. This can be done:
- In person at the GMC office in London.
- Online using the GMC’s ID check app.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a doctor in the UK is a rewarding yet complex process, but understanding the GMC registration requirements can make the journey smoother. If you’re an EU medical graduate, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria, complete the UKMLA exam, and submit your application correctly to avoid delays.
Need expert guidance on your GMC registration process? Get in touch with our team of advisors to ensure a seamless transition into UK medical practice.
FAQs
1. Do I need to take an exam to register with the GMC?
Yes, starting in 2024, all medical graduates—including those from the EU—must pass the UKMLA exam.
2. How long does the GMC registration process take?
The GMC typically reviews applications within five days, but additional document requests may extend the process to 10-20 days.
3. How much does GMC registration cost?
- Provisional registration: £25
- Full registration: £174
4. Can I register with the GMC if I trained outside the EU?
Yes, but you may need to pass the PLAB or UKMLA exam, depending on your qualifications.
5. How do I complete the GMC identity check?
- Online via the GMC ID check app.
- In person at the GMC office in London.
6. Is GMC registration permanent?
No, you must renew your GMC registration annually to maintain your licence.
