RCP resources for international medical graduates (IMGs)

This webpage has been created to support international medical graduates (IMGs) working in the NHS. The RCP has around 40,000 members and fellows, approximately 30% of whom are based outside the UK. We believe good healthcare should be a global experience and recognise the contributions that IMGs working in the NHS give to healthcare worldwide. 

We have created this page to:

  1. provide an accessible and welcoming resource to IMGs
  2. create a central hub to signpost key resources and provide practical guidance for IMGs and employing NHS organisations
  3. provide a platform to share regional UK examples of best practice to support IMGs
  4. empower IMGs with the tools and support necessary to thrive and be successful in their medical careers.

A new country, a new role.

Starting a new job as an IMG in the UK can be both exciting and daunting.

Although medicine is a universal language, the NHS has distinct structures, policies and training pathways. These may appear confusing at first and differ significantly from what you are accustomed to.

We hope that this resource helps you to navigate some of these differences, ensuring a smooth transition into working life as a doctor in the NHS.

Disclaimer: Some website links direct to external, independent sources. These third-party links are provided for signposting only and do not constitute endorsement by the Royal College of Physicians. Note that content on external websites may be inaccurate or change over time, so users should verify information with official or authoritative sources wherever possible.

Find out more

Explore different sections of resources for IMGs who are planning to start work in the NHS, as well as those already working and training in the UK 

Applying for jobs in the NHS: a guide for international medical graduates

Hints and tips on applying for jobs in the NHS, alongside information about clinical attachments and resources to help you prepare for NHS interview.

Moving to the UK as an international medical graduate: visas, finances and living essentials

Links to useful resources on visas, NHS pay and finances, housing, healthcare access, childcare and schooling, transport, and available NHS staff discounts.

Starting work in the NHS: pre-employment checks and preparation for IMGs

Information on the required pre-employment checks, what to expect in your first few weeks, key NHS organisations, and the importance of medical indemnity cover.

NHS induction, supervision and ePortfolio: guidance for international medical graduates

What to expect from your NHS induction, how to use your ePortfolio effectively, and the role of clinical and educational supervision.

Career development and support for IMGs in the UK: RCP resources and training pathways

Postgraduate training pathways, pastoral support and IMG networks, continuing professional development, and key processes such as CREST forms, appraisal and revalidation

Refugee physicians

Support for refugee physicians in the UK, including free or discounted RCP membership, training resources and signposting to employment pathways, helping them rebuild medical careers and maintain professional development in the UK.

RCP Membership

We advocate for your needs, help you gain new skills and knowledge, keep you informed of the latest developments and enable you to connect with supportive colleagues through our local, national and global networks.