GMC Registration: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
So, You Want to Work in the NHS? Let’s Talk GMC Registration!
If you're an international doctor dreaming of a career in the UK, the first hurdle is getting registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). Think of it as getting through airport security before an international flight—you need the right documents, a bit of patience, and maybe a friendly guide to help you breeze through the process. That’s where we come in!
What Exactly is GMC Registration?
The GMC is the official body that ensures doctors in the UK meet high professional standards. Without their stamp of approval, you won’t be able to work legally in the NHS. They offer different types of registration:
- Full Registration – Essential for any doctor wanting to work unsupervised in the NHS.
- Specialist Registration – Required if you’re aiming for a consultant role.
- GP Registration – For doctors who want to work as General Practitioners in the UK.
Do You Need GMC Registration?
If you trained outside the UK, the short answer is yes. But how you qualify depends on your medical school, experience, and a few other factors. Let’s break it down.
How to Get GMC Registration Without the PLAB Route
There’s more than one way to prove you’ve got the skills for the job. If you want to skip PLAB, you’ll need to meet one of these requirements:
- You’ve got a recognized postgraduate qualification (PGQ)
- If you’ve completed an internationally recognized qualification like MRCP, MRCS, MRCEM, or MRCPsych, you’re in luck! These are GMC-approved and can get you straight through the door.
- Your medical licensing exam is accepted
- Some doctors can skip extra exams if they’ve passed a licensing exam from countries like the US (USMLE), Canada (MCCQE), or Australia (AMC). Check the GMC’s list to see if yours qualifies.
- You’ve worked in a country with a GMC-approved medical training system
- If you’ve trained and worked in certain countries with similar healthcare standards to the UK, you might be eligible for GMC registration without extra tests.
The Paperwork You’ll Need
Before you dive into the application process, make sure you’ve got all your documents lined up. The GMC will ask for:
✅ Your primary medical degree certificate (from a GMC-recognized school)
✅ Proof of postgraduate qualification (if applicable)
✅ Certificate of Good Standing (a document confirming you have no outstanding complaints)
✅ Passport or national ID
✅ English language test results (IELTS or OET)
✅ Evidence of clinical experience (internship completion or equivalent)
The English Language Requirement: No Escape!
Unless you studied in an English-speaking country, you’ll need to prove you can communicate like a pro. This means passing either:
- IELTS Academic – Minimum overall score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in each section.
- OET (Occupational English Test) – Grade B in all four sections.
No shortcuts here—strong English skills are non-negotiable in the NHS.
How Much Will This Cost?
Be ready to spend a little. Here’s what you’re looking at:
💷 GMC Registration Fee: £410
💷 English test fees: Around £200
💷 Document verification (if needed): Varies by country
How Long Does GMC Registration Take?
If you’ve got all your documents in order, processing can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. If the GMC asks for additional verification, expect a bit of back-and-forth. Moral of the story? Start early!
What Happens After You Get Registered?
Once you have your GMC number, it’s time to find a job! That’s where we come in. Indigo specializes in placing international doctors in NHS roles, helping with job applications, visa sponsorships, and even relocation support.
Making Sense of the Process
GMC registration might seem like assembling flat-pack furniture without an instruction manual—frustrating, tedious, and with a few screws mysteriously left over. But with the right guidance, it becomes a straightforward process. If you need help figuring out your best route or navigating the paperwork, Indigo is here to make sure you don’t get stuck halfway through.
How One Doctor Got Through It
Last year, a doctor we worked with, was drowning in the paperwork of his GMC registration. Between document verifications, back-and-forth emails, and never-ending forms, he felt like he was running on a treadmill that never stopped. He was close to giving up.
That’s when he found Indigo. Our team stepped in, broke the process down into clear steps, and took over the complicated paperwork. We liaised with the GMC, checked his documents, and ensured there were no errors that could cause delays. What seemed like an uphill battle became a smooth journey.
Fast forward a few months, and our doctor is now thriving in a busy A&E department in London, focusing on what he does best—treating patients. He recently told us, “If it weren’t for Indigo, I’d probably still be stuck refreshing my email for GMC updates.”
The paperwork is temporary, but your NHS career is for the long run. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just know—you don’t have to do it alone.
📞 Book a One-on-One Consultation with Priyen Potnis
Want expert advice tailored to your situation? Connect with Priyen Potnis for a free consultation call and let’s get your NHS career on track.
📩 Contact us today!
