Complete Guide to Registering with the Irish Medical Council (IMC) for Doctors
If you're a doctor looking to practice medicine in the Republic of Ireland, it's essential to be registered with the Irish Medical Council (IMC). This registration ensures you meet the necessary standards to provide healthcare in the country. It’s also your responsibility to ensure your registration remains current and aligns with your career stage.
What is the Irish Medical Council (IMC)?
The IMC is the regulatory body overseeing doctors in Ireland. Its primary role is to protect the public by ensuring that all medical professionals meet the highest professional standards. The IMC sets educational and training benchmarks, maintains a comprehensive register of qualified doctors, and makes it illegal to practice medicine in Ireland without being registered—except in emergency situations or for visiting doctors from the European Economic Area (EEA).
Understanding the IMC Divisions – Where Should You Register?
The IMC has different divisions to cater to various levels of medical professionals:
Internship Registration
For doctors starting their internship at IMC-recognized hospitals. These posts are allocated by the HSE, Read more
Supervised Registration
Designed for doctors taking up a position that has specific supervision, approved by the HSE. Read more
Trainee Specialist Registration
For doctors in postgraduate medical training, assigned by the HSE. Read more
General Registration
For doctors not involved in a formal training post or who haven't completed specialist medical training. Read more
Specialist Registration
For doctors who have completed recognized specialist training and are ready to practice independently as specialists. Read more
Visiting EEA Practioners Registration
For fully qualified EU doctors practicing temporarily in Ireland. Read more
IMC Applicant Categories
Doctors seeking registration fall into one of four categories:
Graduates of Irish Medical Schools
Doctors who have completed their medical education in Ireland are eligible for direct registration with the Irish Medical Council (IMC) and can practice once they fulfill all internship and training requirements.
EU Citizens Who Graduated from EU Medical Schools
EU citizens who have graduated from medical schools within the EU are typically eligible for automatic recognition of their qualifications under EU directives, allowing them to register with the IMC.
Non-EU Citizens with EU Medical School Degrees
Non-EU doctors who have completed their medical degrees at EU medical schools may also qualify for registration with the IMC, provided their qualifications meet EU standards.
Doctors from Outside These Categories (PRES)
Doctors who do not fall into the above categories must pass the Pre-Registration Examination System (PRES), which assesses their medical knowledge, unless they meet specific exemption criteria.