Support and Guidance
This guide has been designed for final year GP speciality trainees who need to secure visa sponsorship after they complete their training, in order to remain in the NHS Scotland Workforce.
Discover the range of resources and support to securing visa sponsorship.
Please note the information in this guide is in accordance with current immigration legislation and processes as of April 2025. In May 2025 the UK Government published their Restoring control over the immigration system white paper. We will update the guides as and when any proposed changes from the white paper come into force. Please always refer to the UKVI website for updates and changes on immigration legislation for the most up to date information.
Peer Support
For peer support you can join the international and overseas group on the RCGP forum or join the Scottish IMG Doctors Support Network - Closed Facebook Group.
Advice Appointments
You can book a free advice appointment with an immigration adviser from Scotland’s Migration Service to understand your visa options to stay in Scotland after completing your training.
Visa Advice Service
Contact UKVI through their dedicated visa support and advice service for NHS staff including GPs and practices: UKVINHSTeam@homeoffice.gov.uk.
Immigration Advice Authority
NES Trainee Services Sponsorship Team
For questions relating to your current visa sponsorship through NES, the trainee Services Sponsorship Team can be contacted through the HR Service desk or you can find information on the NES Skilled Worker Sponsorship webpage.
Finding a Healthcare career in Scotland
There are lots of opportunities in Scotland to find a job that's right for you. Find useful resources, guides and support at scotland.org/work/finding-a-job
Discover how a fellow IMG GP has established a meaningful and rewarding career in Scotland
Explore the Centre for Workforce Supply Resource Hub
