Immigration Options for Indian Doctors MBBS/MD/MS to Settle in the US and UK
Indian doctors with MBBS, MD, or MS qualifications often face challenges when looking to settle in the US and UK. The requirements for these jurisdictions often involve passing specific exams like the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) for the US and PLAB (Part 2 of the United Kingdom's Postgraduate Foundation Programme) for the UK. However, alternative paths exist, especially for those with the right qualifications and willingness to pursue certain opportunities.
UK Immigration Pathways for Indian Doctors
The UK presents various options for Indian doctors aiming for settlement. For those looking to work, specialized work visas are available based on the salary level and type of job. Here's a detailed look at the different pathways:
Teaching Vacancies and Skills Conversion Courses
Graduates aspiring to teach subjects such as Math, Physics, or Chemistry without a relevant degree can enroll in teacher training conversion courses. These courses prepare individuals to become fully qualified school teachers in the UK. Additionally, other professions like engineering and computer programming can also lead to higher salaries and subsequent visa opportunities. Women with engineering skills and experience, particularly in roles like petroleum engineering or computer programming, can earn substantial salaries.
High-Salary Jobs and Work Visas
The UK offers special work visas for high-salary positions paying over ￡155,300 annually. There's no annual cap on the number of visas issued for such roles, which can include a variety of occupations such as agency doctors, locum doctors, computer programmers, lawyers, and experienced engineers. For instance, a computer programmer can secure a visa if employed in a position paying ￡80 per hour, leading to an annual salary of ￡160,000 or more.
Marrying a British Citizen
Another route involves marrying a British citizen who earns more than ￡18,600 per annum. The income threshold increases if there are children under 18, possibly up to ￡22,000. Even if the British citizen earns less than ￡18,600 or is unemployed, settlement can still be achieved if they have at least ￡40,000 in savings. Earnings from non-EU citizens are not factored into this assessment. It's worth noting that the UK's relationship with the EU has introduced some uncertainty, so this route carries some risk for those planning post-Brexit.
EU Citizens and Ireland
The UK and Ireland share a unique relationship. Irish residents can move to the UK and vice versa without a work permit, making it a viable option for Indian doctors. Additionally, the Republic of Ireland offers investment visas requiring a minimum investment of €500,000. This route, however, is geared more towards wealthy individuals or those with access to significant funds.
Tier 1 Investment Visa
For those with financial resources, the Tier 1 Investment Visa can provide another pathway. Under this program, an individual can invest ￡2 million in the UK economy through government bonds and gain indefinite leave to enter the UK. The investment is repayable after a specified period, and it enables the individual to work, start a business, or remain unemployed. This visa also allows for passport application after residing in the country for three to five years.
These options present a range of pathways for Indian doctors to settle in the UK. Each path requires careful planning and consideration of personal qualifications, financial resources, and local regulations. Understanding these options can significantly impact the ease and success of moving to the UK.