Documents Required to Become a Salaried GP in the UK

April 4, 2025

Becoming a salaried General Practitioner (GP) in the UK is a fulfilling career path, offering job stability, work-life balance, and the chance to build long-term relationships with patients. Whether you’re a UK-trained doctor or an international medical graduate (IMG), one of the most important steps in securing a salaried GP position is ensuring your documentation is complete and up to date.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the key documents required to work as a salaried GP in the UK:

1. GMC Registration with a Licence to Practise

Before anything else, you must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). This registration allows you to legally practise medicine in the UK.

  • For UK graduates: Apply after completing medical school and Foundation Year 1 (F1).
  • For international doctors: You may need to pass the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) test or present evidence of an approved postgraduate qualification.

Tip: Ensure your license is current and free from restrictions.

2. Inclusion on the NHS England Medical Performers List

To work as a GP in the NHS, you need to be on the NHS England Medical Performers List. This list confirms that you are suitably qualified and safe to work as a GP in primary care settings.

Documents typically required for application include:

  • Proof of identity (passport, biometric ID)
  • GMC certificate
  • Medical qualification certificates
  • Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
  • Occupational health clearance
  • Indemnity insurance certificate
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)

3. CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) or Equivalent

If you trained in the UK, you’ll need your CCT in General Practice, issued by the RCGP (Royal College of General Practitioners). This proves that you’ve completed your specialty training in general practice.

For overseas doctors, an equivalent qualification may be recognised through the Certificate of Eligibility for GP Registration (CEGPR) route.

4. Medical Indemnity Cover

It’s a legal requirement to have indemnity insurance in place. Organisations like the Medical Defence Union (MDU) or Medical Protection Society (MPS) provide this cover.

Check whether your employer covers this, especially in a salaried position, or if you need to arrange it independently.

5. Enhanced DBS Check

An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required to work with vulnerable adults and children. Most GP practices or NHS Trusts will process this for you, but it’s good to have it ready.

6. Right to Work in the UK

You must provide valid proof of your right to work in the UK, which could include:

  • UK/EU passport
  • Biometric residence permit (BRP)
  • Work visa (e.g., Skilled Worker visa)

If you’re an IMG, ensure your visa allows you to work in a permanent or salaried role.

7. Occupational Health Clearance

A basic health screening ensures you are fit to work in a healthcare environment. This may include proof of immunisation (e.g. Hepatitis B, MMR, TB).

8. Professional References

Typically, two clinical references from recent supervisors are needed—ideally within the last 3 years.

9. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Ensure your CV is up to date, clear, and tailored for a GP role. It should include:

  • Your qualifications
  • Training history
  • Employment history
  • CPD (Continuing Professional Development) activities
  • Any audits or quality improvement projects

Optional but Helpful:

  • Appraisal or revalidation documents (if previously practising in the UK)
  • RCGP membership certificate (if applicable)
  • Basic life support (BLS) training certificate

Final Thoughts

Having all the required documentation ready not only speeds up your application process but also demonstrates professionalism and commitment. If you’re not sure whether you meet the requirements or need help with gathering your documents, working with a medical recruitment agency like MedMatch can make the process smoother. Our team helps GPs—both local and international—navigate the paperwork and find salaried roles that suit their lifestyle and career goals.

Need help landing a salaried GP job?
Get in touch with our recruitment experts at MedMatch today and take the next step in your GP career with confidence.