Doctors Gateway Specialist Programme

For senior international Doctors looking to work as a Specialist/ Consultant in the UK’s NHS.

The Specialist Programme provides senior, high-grade Doctors with structured support to complete their submission of the Portfolio Pathway, previously known as the Certificate of Eligibility of Specialist Registration (CESR). This will be achieved whilst ensuring high-quality specialist training, in partnership with the Royal Colleges.

Is the Doctors Gateway Specialist Programme right for me?

You can apply for this programme if you are working at Consultant level in your country of residence. Apply for the Gateway Specialist programme if:

You are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and have a licence to practice.
You have Royal College membership in your specialist field.
Are looking for relocate to the UK and work for the NHS.
Are looking to progress your medical career as a Consultant in the UK.

Temporary pause in recruitment

Doctors Gateway has temporarily paused applications across all Gateway programmes, and we are not accepting new registrations at this time. We will update this webpage as soon as the service reopens and share full details on how to apply.

However, we do offer a series of webinar courses to support your professional development. Learn more below:

Clinical Confidence Webinars - CREST

For early career resident doctors (FY1, FY2) and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Aspiring Consultant Webinars - CESR

For middle grade doctors looking to progress into senior and consultant roles.

Why choose the Doctors Gateway Specialist Programme?

The Doctors Gateway Specialist Programme and all the benefits listed below are provided as standard, free of charge:

Circa 24-months^* continuous employment at one of our Gateway Partner Trusts^** across the UK, in your specialty.
Guidance and support to complete your Portfolio Pathway submission to obtain accreditation (also known as Certificate of Eligibility Specialist Registration - CESR).
Access to a mentorship programme provided by senior clinicians, if required.
A dedicated Doctors Gateway team to support you with:
- 30 hours a year of accredited learning, designed specifically to meet your needs.
- Access to accredited 'training to be a teacher' and teaching opportunities.
- Appraisal support including, preparation for and completion of your annual appraisal, meeting GMC requirements.
- Guidance in creating your own Personal Development Plan.
- Support with the next steps in your career.
Access to relevant webinars.
A point of contact at your Gateway Partner Trust to support your career progression.

_{*Programme length varies dependent on speciality. Our team can advise further.}

_{**The Gateway Partner Trust refers to an NHS Trust in England, a health board in a devolved nation, or an Integrated Care System, who will be your employer. They will be responsible for provision of Visa Sponsorship.}