The Recognised Specialist Qualification Pathway allows doctors whose qualification is included in the General Medical Council (GMC) list of recognised qualifications to apply directly for GP or Specialist registration. This is a new pathway which launched on 15 May 2024. 

Currently, there are five general practice qualifications included on the list. The curricula for these qualifications have been carefully reviewed as part of a detailed mapping process which also looked at the healthcare context, the training programme, assessments and examinations. The success rate of applicants holding these qualifications who applied through the former Streamlined CEGPR route means that we are assured of their similarity to general practice specialty training in the UK and their suitability for the RSQ list. 

You can find out whether your qualification is on the list of recognised specialist qualifications and whether you fulfil the further requirements (where stipulated) on the General Medical Council (GMC) website.

The evidence needed to support your application for GP registration via the RSQ Pathway will vary depending on whether your qualification was awarded within the last three years or more than three years ago.

• If you gained your general practice qualification within the last three years, check the GMC page for qualifications under three years old for guidance and the evidence you need to provide.
• If you gained your general practice qualification more than three years ago, check the GMC page for qualifications over three years old for guidance and the evidence you need to provide.

Once you are ready to apply, you make your application to the GMC online and attach your evidence online. 

If you are not eligible to make an application via the RSQ Pathway, you may meet the criteria to apply through the Portfolio Pathway.

European qualifications and entry to the GP Register

If you hold a GP qualification awarded in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland that is also a relevant European qualification you may apply to the GMC for direct entry to the GP Register. You do not need to be a national of the EEA. Nationality is no longer relevant for this type of application.

Please visit the GMC website for more information about applying to the GP Register with a relevant European qualification.

Brexit and how it may impact you

The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 and entered a transition period which ended on 31 December 2020. Now the transition period has ended, most EEA countries no longer automatically recognise qualifications awarded in the UK. If you plan to work outside the UK, you will need to contact the regulator in the country you wish to work in to find out what their requirements are.

Please visit the GMC website to find details of the regulator in EEA member countries and for more information on Brexit.