How much will relocating to the UK cost me?
For many international healthcare professionals, it is their goal to relocate to the UK.
It is important to know the potential cost sof relocating to the UK, as often candidates do not research into it. We will guide you in each stage of the relocation process via the PLAB route with an average fee – so you know what to expect.
To practice all doctors need to be GMC registered and all nurses NMC registered. So this is your first target.
To become GMC registered you must have the following:
- Recognised medical qualifications
- English language proficiency certification
- Registration & Licencing history
- Certificates of good standing
- Knowledge & Skill
- ID Check
To become NMC registered you must have the following:
- Recognised medical qualifications
- English language proficiency certification
- Registration & Licencing history
- Certificates of good standing
- Knowledge & Skill
- ID Check
Once you have obtained your primary medical qualification we will start with the next step, which is evidencing your English Language Capabilities.
The are two ways to achieve this, via IELTS or OET
- IELTS - £ 195
- OET - £ 323
Please note that the price of IELTS varies by test centre but it is typically around £195.
The price of OET is around £99.
Knowledge & Skills
You must possess the relevant skills and knowledge in order to practise safely. To evidence this to the you will need to have either an approved postgraduate qualification or pass the PLAB exam.
- Part 1 of the PLAB test - £239
- Part 2 of the PLAB test - £875
Flights to the UK for your ID check / relocation
GMC/NMC Registration costs
Application for a full registration with a licence to practise (if you obtained your primary medical degree in the last 5 years) - £156
NMC is £153.
Tier 2 Visa application
The cost of a Tier 2 Visa application (Health & Care) for up to 3 years costs between £200 - £300.
A Visa for more than 3 years costs £400+. The fee is the same whether you apply from inside or outside the UK.
Your dependants will also pay the same amount.
In some cases, you may be able to claim back the cost of your Tier 2 Visa application but this is dependent on your relocation package.
Total Cost (an example)
- OET £323
- PLAB 1 £239
- PLAB 2 £875
- Flight for PLAB 2 £572
- Flight for ID Check / relocation £572
- GMC Registration check £156
- Tier 2 Visa application + HIS Surcharges £232
- Total £2,969
Please note that we have not included the cost of your undergraduate degree, postgraduate degree or EPIC verification so the overall cost will increase if you wanted to include these in your relocation cost.
It is important to remember that these costs are spread out over a couple of years. For most the process is lengthy simply due to medical and family responsibilities. Therefore, the overall price will not feel as expensive.
There are lot of steps to relocating to the UK; however, with determination and our support it is achievable. If you would like support with your relocation get in contact with us at info@permhire.co.uk and we will be happy to advise.
For further information on this topic or anything else, please contact us now via:
- Phone: +44 0203 411 5531
- Email: international@permhire.co.uk
- Contact us form
