For many international doctors, it is their goal to relocate to the UK and work within the NHS. After taking various exams such as IELTS, PLAB or several postgraduate qualification papers you finally obtain your GMC Registration.
Accepting a job offer in a new country can be refreshing and exciting, but making the actual move is often stressful and overwhelming. Multiple factors are involved when you transition from one country to another, and so hospitals typically offer relocation packages to aid some of these relocation costs.
The relocation package figure varies from hospital to hospital as they will each have their own Trust policy on relocation expenses.
These expenses will qualify for tax relief if they are ‘reasonably provided’ in connection with a change in your residence. To qualify, the expenses must be incurred, or the benefits must be provided before the end of the tax year after the one in which your employment duties started.
Please note that relocation packages are typically reserved for the more “hard-to-fill” posts and for the more senior level positions. Therefore, not all international doctors who take up an NHS position will be entitled to a relocation package.
Types of Packages
Under this package, the Trust may reimburse your expenses from the moment you enter the UK.
This could include:
This package can include reimbursement of the above and other costs you may have incurred before entering the UK such as:
Check what is included in the package
Once you have received your job
As hospitals will frequently deal with new employees relocating from overseas, they may connect you with their sub-contracted companies. Other hospitals may give you a lump sum to pay for relocation or ask you to keep all receipts for reimbursements.
Ask for specifics beforehand and ask if it is possible to receive a hard copy of their relocation package policy.
Negotiating your relocation packages
If BDI Resourcing helped you find your first job within the NHS – then we will negotiate the relocation package for you.
As previously mentioned, each Trust will have their own policy and so sometimes there is no room for negotiation. However, we will always set out to get the best package possible for all our doctors.
Remember – Get the details in writing
As with any job-related benefit, it is important to have all the details in writing. That way, both you and your new employer will be clear about expectations and coverage.
If you are an international doctor who is interested in relocating to the UK and working within the NHS send your CV to [email protected] and we will be happy to help you.
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