As well as UK graduates, medical graduates from the Republic of Ireland, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein would also see their applications prioritised for specialty training and the foundation programme, owing to pre-existing trade agreements between the UK and these countries.

IMGs (international medical graduates) already in the UK and who have completed foundation or core training or who have secured indefinite leave to remain, EU settled status or British dual-citizenship, will also be eligible for prioritisation for specialty training.

IMG doctors from outside these categories would not be prevented from applying for specialty training roles. However, their applications will not be prioritised. 

Dr Fletcher warned that Government’s proposed approach for UK graduate prioritisation differs from that previously set out by the BMA.  

Under the association’s recommendations, all IMG doctors registered with GMC and practising in the NHS by 5 March 2025 and possessing at least two years’ experience in the NHS should also receive prioritisation. 

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