Support and resources to help IMGs moving to the UK
Post date: 22/02/2023 | Time to read article: 2 mins
The information within this article was correct at the time of publishing. Last updated 24/02/2023
Dr Rob Hendry, Director of Medical Protection provides a list of resources to help International Medical Graduates (IMG) make their move to the UK.
As an international medical graduate (IMG) moving to the UK to work, you’ll no doubt have a lot of questions. Luckily, there’s lots of advice and support available to help make the transition as easy as possible.
We’ve done all the hard work for you by compiling this list of useful resources that you can reference at every stage of your journey.
An introduction to the NHS for IMGs
Created by Medical Protection, this guide looks at the history of the NHS, how it is structured and governed, and explains some of the language used when talking about healthcare provision in the UK.
How does the NHS in England work and how is it changing?
This short video explains simply how the NHS in England operates. It’s a great start point for anyone thinking of working in the UK.
British Medical Association (BMA)
On the BMA website you can find a wealth of information for IMGs. Just some of the topics they cover include studying and training, visas and immigration, getting a job and what life is like in the UK.
Welcome to the UK workshop
The General Medical Council (GMC) has created a free workshop for doctors new to the UK. It offers guidance about ethical scenarios and gives you the chance to connect with other IMGs.
Working and training in the NHS – a guide for International Medical Graduates
Created by NHS Employers, this guide provides advice to any IMG who is considering working in the UK. It includes information about the NHS in England, details of the benefits of working in the UK, and looks at the registration and immigration requirements.
Living and working in the UK as a GP: a guide for overseas doctors and their families
The Royal College of General Practitioners has a wealth of information on their website. This guide helps family doctors, who have never worked in the UK, make an informed decision about whether the move is right for them, and explains what is involved.
NHS Induction Programme for International Medical Graduates
This programme is designed to ensure all IMGs joining the NHS are welcomed, valued and supported as they transition to UK clinical practice. Part of the programme is the Welcoming and Valuing International Medical Graduates Guidance, which you can read by following the link below.
The NHS in Scotland
If you’re considering working in Scotland, this website covers everything IMGs need to know.
The NHS in Wales
If you’re considering working in Wales, this website covers everything IMGs need to know.
Health and Social Care provision in Northern Ireland
If you’re considering working in Northern Ireland, this website explains the NHS arrangements in that country.
NHS relocation package
Many NHS trusts offer relocation packages to IMGs, to support with the cost of moving to the UK for a job in the NHS.
The Savvy IMG
Written by two IMGs now working in London and sharing their own experiences, this blog is packed with useful content.
NHS Jobs
The NHS has a dedicated website which features all the current roles available.
Job search
IMG Connect are a specialist recruitment company that helps IMGs find work in the UK. As well as having a job search facility, the site also has resources around topics such as exams, qualifications and registrations, and relocating to the UK.
About the author
Rob Hendry is Medical Director at Medical Protection, working with members around the world. He has a particular interest in supporting doctors who move between different countries and has championed Medical Protection’s Diversity and Inclusion strategy.