Information for pharmacists
Anyone wanting to work in the UK as a pharmacist must register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). However this does not provide the right to work in the UK.
The GPhC is the regulatory body for pharmacists in England, Scotland and Wales. It also regulates pharmacy technicians.
Applicants who hold qualifications obtained outside the EEA, or non-EEA nationals who hold European pharmacy qualifications (other than a UK pharmacy qualification), are not entitled to apply for registration with the GPhC. Further information for overseas (non-EEA) qualified pharmacists can be found on the GPhC website.
EEA nationals
Nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA) possessing a European pharmacy qualification and who wish to apply to register with the GPhC must first complete an information pack and provide the information requested. An applicant's route to registration will depend on how the competent authority describes the qualifications and/or work experience held by the individuals in relation to the relevant European Directives.
There are two possible routes to registration: Route A or Route B. Details can be found on the GPhC website. When the GPhC have verified the information requested, an appropriate application for registration form will be sent to the applicant.
FAQs
Which immigration route will I need to use?
If you are not a British citizen, or a national of a country in the European Economic Area (EEA) you will need a visa and may need entry clearance before you travel to the UK. To obtain a visa or entry clearance you will need to meet all the requirements of the UK Border Agency which is responsible for the immigration process into the UK.
A national from outside the EEA seeking entry to, or permission to remain in, the UK for the purpose of employment will need to meet the requirements of the points-based system. This is the new immigration system which has replaced the old immigration routes, such as work permits.
Will I have to take a health check?
All healthcare professionals recruited into the NHS that work directly with patients have to undergo an occupational health medical check before starting employment. This will include:
- Clinical history and examination
- Blood testing for hepatitis B & C
- Declaration about the health status of all candidates
- A chest x-ray for TB
How do I find a pre-registration training place?
To find out more about pre-registration training, click here.
Where do I look for job vacancies in the NHS?
All NHS organisations in England (and Wales) advertise their vacancies on the NHS Jobs website.
