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

Relocating to the UK to work in the NHS involves important practical considerations. This page links to resources containing key information on visas, NHS pay and finances, housing, healthcare access, childcare and schooling, transport, and available NHS staff discounts. It is designed to help IMGs plan their move, manage costs, and settle smoothly into life in the UK.

General guides

Moving to a new country can be challenging. This section brings together useful guidance and resources to help your move to the UK and start you NHS practice.

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Visas

Most IMGs will be employed on a health and care worker visa when starting NHS employment. The process is typically as follows:

  1. Your NHS employer makes the initial application for a Certificate of Sponsorship (this will detail the duration of your visa).
  2. You apply for the visa online (the initial application is usually made using a code issued by Step 1).
  3. Arrange an ID check.
  4. Most people receive a decision within 3 weeks, providing there are no issues with the documentation. There is an option to pay a higher fee for a quicker decision.
  5. If you are in the UK on a visitor visa, you will usually need to leave the UK to apply for your Health and Care Worker visa from abroad.
  6. You cannot start working until your visa has been approved.
  7. Your partner/children can apply for dependent visas – these usually last for the duration of your Health and Care Worker visa.
  8. For queries on the visa application process, contact your NHS employer and/or the Home Office for support.

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Finances and NHS pay

There are various types of bank accounts in the UK. Current accounts are typically used for day-to-day purchases and transactions.

To open a bank account, you will need proof of identity and address (for example, a utility bill). If there are gaps in the documentation you require, your NHS employer may be able to provide a letter to support your application.

Many bank accounts can be opened online. Some require you to make an in-person appointment. You may wish to enquire about fees associated with international payments if you know this is something you will need to access.

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Housing and bills

When securing accommodation, make sure you have a contract and have seen the property before transferring any money. Using a reputable rental agency can help you find suitable accommodation and reduce the risk of scams. Your employing NHS organisation should be able to provide you with information about accommodation in the local area, which may include hospital accommodation.

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  • and –Ìýsearch property to buy, rent, house prices, estate agents
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For privately rented accommodation, you may need to set up the utility bills (gas/electricity/water/internet/council tax) when you move in. There can be discounts available if you are the only person renting the accommodation (eg for council tax).Ìý

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Healthcare

Useful information about healthcare services and how to access them.

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Childcare and schools

In the UK, schools are either government-funded (free to attend) or independent (fee paying). School placements are managed through your local council. You can see how well a school is rated by looking at the Ofsted website.

For pre-school age children, childcare options include nurseries, childminders or creches. There are various options for free early education that are worth exploring.Ìý

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Transport

Information about transport options in the UK, including using public transport and owning a car.Ìý

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NHS discounts

Information about a UK discount service for NHS workers.

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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.

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: Â鶹Çø 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 Â鶹Çø membership, training resources and signposting to employment pathways, helping them rebuild medical careers and maintain professional development in the UK.

Â鶹Çø 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.