Types of Visas
a) Tier 2 visa – (Work permit visa)
You can get this by applying online for any post that is advertised. Sometimes agencies will come offering this visa for you to come over to join.
Advantages of Tier 2 visa
- This is a work visa and as long as you stay on it for 5 continuous years (More info on Home office website), you can apply for indefinite stay
- Once you get the first visa, extension is easier .. so moving jobs easier
- There is no time limit
Disadvantages of Tier 2 visa
- There is a monthly quota (although this may be relaxed)
- Ensuring you are eligible for the Job (eg GMC registration is your responsibility)
- You need to be eligible to register with GMC
- It is about 3 times more expensive
- These are usually service jobs and may not have any educational value
In order to start work, you must fulfill all regulatory requirements for work. THIS IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
- GMC registration. Sponsorship route is NOT possible for Tier 2 Visa You have to do the
- IELTS / OET examination
- Certificate of sponsorship ( this is usually an NHS Trust)
- Visa application and fees
Your work is a service job and if you find there is little training element to it , you have no recompense as long as you have not been misled (ie told that your job will have three operating sessions and you get only one)
b) Tier 5 – Overseas Training Scheme (MTI)
This is a scheme recognized for overseas training and is approved by the royal colleges GMC and Home office
Advantages of Tier 5
- There is no Quota or limitations
- The Job requires there be a training element to the job.
- Regularly reviewed by the AORMC
- Much cheaper
- No examinations required for GMC registration (Your visa is sponsored by the institution)
- Your GMC registration will continue after the job
Disadvantages of Tier 5
- It is time limited to 2 years
- You cannot convert this to tier 2 (although nothing prevents you from applying for a job, securing a sponsorship for tier 2 and then applying for it from abroad.
- This time does not count towards right to remain