Wessex welcomes International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to train in the Wessex region. We recognise that the transition of living and working in the UK can be difficult and we are fully committed to supporting IMG doctors across Wessex. Guidance on the visa application process for Foundation doctors can be found here. Further useful information and links are listed below.
Late Starters to the Foundation Programme
Applicants to the Foundation Programme are required to fulfil certain eligibility criteria by the start date of their Foundation training to be able to take up their post. Many of these criteria cannot be checked at the point of application and it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure they meet the criteria by the proposed start date.
If an applicant experiences an issue obtaining their visa that will result in a delay to their training start date they must notify the Wessex Foundation School as well as their employer as soon as possible.
Requests to defer start dates are only accepted for statutory reasons, meaning Foundation applicants cannot routinely delay the start to their programme.
Applicants who are not ready to start by the first Wednesday in August will be given 20 working days to resolve the issues. If they are not ready to start by the end of this period, applicants will have their offer of a 2-year Foundation Programme withdrawn.
Applicants that have had a delay to their start date must declare the missing time out of training days (TOOT) on their Form R at their Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP).
Further information and resource
Support and resources for IMG doctors
Working and training in the NHS – please follow the link for the guide for international medical graduates NHS Guide for IMGs
Tips for international doctors new to the UK who are just starting out in the NHS. Being an International Doctor in the UK
New Wessex IMG doctors in postgraduate training must attend a mandatory 2-day interactive event, to help them to integrate into the NHS. Wessex IMGs – Induction Programme (for doctors new to the NHS)
Useful information for prospective IMG doctors & Right to work/Visas
A Skilled Worker visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.
This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. Detailed information can be found following the link below. UK Government Tier 2 visa advice
The link below provides general information about the right to work in the UK. Individuals who require advice on immigration matters are advised to seek up to date information and support directly from the UK Visas and Immigration team (UKVI). UKFPO right to work/visas
There are different ways to apply for registration with a licence to practise in the UK. It depends on your qualification and experience. This tool will identify the correct application for you and will give you guidance on the steps you need to take. General Medical Council (GMC) routes to registration
The link below describes what you need to know about becoming a doctor in the UK, depending on where you’ve trained, and signposts you to further information. NHS information for overseas doctors