Visa and Immigration Support for IMG Doctors
Supporting Your Journey: Visa and Immigration Support for IMG Doctors
Welcome to the IMG Hub—your central resource for visa and immigration guidance as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) doctor in Scotland. This page is for IMG doctors, their trainers, supervisors, employers and managers.
Whether you're just beginning your NHS journey or planning your next steps after completing specialty training, this hub is here to help you thrive. It brings together national guidance, board-specific materials, and links to trusted partners including the GMC, Royal Colleges, medical defence unions, and immigration advisory services.
On this page, you’ll find practical guidance and support relating to the visa and immigration processes in Scotland.
Explore a range of resources and discover:
- Visa Sponsorship
- Employment with a Health Board or GP Practice
- Resident Doctors Sponsored by NHS Education for Scotland (NES)
- Independent Immigration Advice
- UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) Support for NHS Staff
- GPs Approaching CCT Seeking Visa Sponsorship
- Visa Sponsorship for GP Practices
Our aim is to ensure every IMG doctor feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to build a fulfilling career in NHS Scotland. From visa sponsorship advice to peer networks and wellbeing support, we’re committed to walking alongside you every step of the way.
If you have questions or suggestions for additional content, please contact the Centre for Workforce Supply at nes.cws@nhs.scot.
Visa and Migration Support
Resident Doctors Sponsored by NHS Education for Scotland (NES)
The Trainee Services Sponsorship Team is available to support resident doctors who have visa sponsorship by NHS Education for Scotland. The Trainee Services Sponsorship Team can be contacted via the HR Service Desk. You can also find detailed guidance on the NES Skilled Worker Sponsorship page.
Independent Immigration Advice
IMG doctors can book free appointments with a registered immigration adviser through Scotland's Migration Service. Their website also offers comprehensive information on visa and immigration options. We strongly strongly encourage you do not try to advise colleagues on any matters relating to their visa or immigration status, and recommend that they seek individual advice through a registered immigration adviser.
Employers are also able to book free appointments with a registered immigration lawyer through Seraphus, Scotland's Migration Service partner provider.
Visa Sponsorship for GP Practices
If your GP Practice is considering becoming a UKVI Visa Sponsor to employ International Medical Graduate (IMG) GPs or other international healthcare professionals, the GP Practice Visa Sponsorship Guide offers valuable information and support to help you get started.
Explore the Centre for Workforce Supply Resource Hub
