International Medical Graduates and VISA Sponsorship

Support for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

If you are an International Medical Graduate (IMG) currently in the UK or planning to move to the UK, we can assist you with:

  • Visa Sponsorship
  • Job Placement Post-Qualification (CCT)

 

 

Certificate of Sponsorship for Skilled Worker Visa

Cornwall Primary Care Training Hub is approved by the Home Office as a UK employer and can assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), subject to having a job offer. This will enable you to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, which has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. We can:

  • Help you find and secure a job offer.
  • Offer a range of employment contracts to provide flexible working options while ensuring a guaranteed salary to meet visa requirements.

 

Employment Opportunities

With our support, you could work in:

  • A GP Practice in Cornwall.
  • The Out of Hours Service at Kernow Health CIC.
  • A portfolio agreement with Practices/Out of Hours Service.
  • Various GP Practices under a Locum arrangement.

Once the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is assigned, you can apply for a visa extension. The sooner you have this in place, the better.

 

Extending Your Visa

Plan Ahead

  • Start considering visa sponsorship post-CCT early in your ST3 year.
  • Consult with VTS and Training Hub contacts to explore available options.
  • Attend the annual Cornwall General Practice Recruitment Fair, usually held in May, to meet GP practices and discuss job vacancies.
  • Contact us early to ensure ample time to arrange everything for your new role.

 

Finding a Job Post-Qualification (CCT)

If you have completed your GP training in Cornwall and wish to continue working here, or if you have trained elsewhere in the UK and want to move to Cornwall, we can help you:

  • Find a job without the hassle of numerous job adverts. Alternatively, check the vacancies on our website.
  • Prepare for interviews.
  • Complete the necessary paperwork to meet visa sponsorship requirements.

 

Additional Support

We understand that starting your career may require additional support. We offer:

  • Practical advice on visa applications.
  • Assistance in adjusting to your new role.
  • Access to our International Medical Graduate Ambassador, who has undergone the visa process and can provide individual advice and guidance based on personal experiences. This includes guidance on visa/ILR applications, post-CCT paperwork, and social prescribing specific to your diverse orientation.

 

Ongoing Training and Development

To support your continuing education, training, and development, we offer:

  • Primary Care Education Programme: A continuous programme of education and training accessible for free once employed by Kernow Health CIC or a Cornwall GP Practice.
  • GP Mentors: Experienced, trained GPs providing mentorship as you adjust to your new role.
  • Peer Support: Provided by our IMG Ambassador.
  • Maternity Coaching: Group coaching for those due to go on maternity leave or currently on maternity leave, helping you navigate changes to your working life.
  • Locum Support: Support for locum GPs in Cornwall, even if not seeking a salaried position.
  • Portfolio Roles: A range of portfolio roles to enable flexible working while meeting visa requirements.

 

If you would like to find out more please contact our IMG Ambassador by emailing kernowhealthcic.workforce@nhs.net.