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General Practitioners: Relocating & Working in Ireland

Calling all EU Doctors! Ireland needs you!


A recent article in the Irish Times has highlighted the severe need for General Practitioners and Family Physicians in Ireland. With over 100 open roles currently in Clarity - from permanent, to contract, to Locum - let us share with you the overview of relocating to Ireland to work as a General Practitioner.

Working as a General Practitioner in Ireland

The local General Practitioner is the first medical contact for patients within the community. As a GP you have the opportunity to practice primary health care, both physically and mentally, to individuals and families. A GP develops an ongoing relationship with patients and provides progressive care.

General Practitioners should have the following skills in order to support patients within the community:

  • Communication Skills
  • Problem-solving Skills
  • Detail-Oriented
  • Professional Etiquette
  • Business Management
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Patient Care Management

A regular GP appointment schedule lasts for about 10 minutes with each patient.

On average, a general practitioner earns a salary of €100,000+ per year. However, the amount of a GP’s salary depends on the size of the practice or the location of the practice.

A general practitioner assessing a patient in her consultation room.

How to Work as a General Practitioner in Ireland:

Step 1 - Registration

All medical practitioners in Ireland must register with the Irish Medical Council (IMC). This is the regulatory body governing medical practitioners in Ireland. Before you relocate, you need to confirm that you are eligible to become a part of the IMC. If you qualify, you can create an account on the Medical Council website.

After creating an account, you must fill out the application form and upload some credentials to confirm your eligibility. The Medical Council will review your documents and check if it meets their criteria.

It takes about six weeks for your application to be complete after the Medical Council receives your application. You can find the complete process of registration on the Irish Medical Council website. It is highly recommended to complete this step before you arrive in Ireland.

English Language:
The comprehension of the English Language is crucial if you want to move to Ireland as a General Practitioner. If English is not your first language or you have a substandard comprehension of the English Language, you will need to take the IELTS Exam.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is created to help you study, work, or migrate to a country where English is the native language. The exam assesses your ability to read, speak, write, and listen. You must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English Language to boost your chances of gaining employment as a GP and moving to Ireland.

Clarity have numerous partnerships with English schools and options for improving your English levels at highly discounted rates.

Step 2 - Apply for Roles

Let us at Clarity look after all your needs. After an initial consultation we will chat about your needs and wants for when you relocate to Ireland and guide and support you with suitable roles that will cover all your requirements.
More information on our application process can be found here.

Step 3 - Interview, offer and acceptance

As part of our service we will also support you through every stage of the application process. CV writing/guidance, organising interviews, completing interview preparation, supporting negotiation of contracts and employment.
Ensuring you have everything completed prior to relocation and start date.

Step 4 - Insurance

Insurance for GPs is necessary if you intend to move to Ireland. Professional Indemnity insurance is ideal for GPs in Ireland because it gives legal protection if responsible or accused of negligence or a mistake when caring for a patient. 

Although most employers provide professional indemnity insurance to their employees, it is recommended that you discuss getting indemnity insurance with your employer before accepting a job offer.

If your employment does not come with indemnity insurance, there are several professional indemnity insurance providers in Ireland you can opt for. Some of these providers are Medical Protection in Ireland, Medisec, Challenge, Bizbroker, and OBF Group Insurance. Each of them provides several different packages and prices. Shop around and pick a provider that suits your needs and you feel comfortable with.

GP sitting in her room having a consultation with a patient

Step 5 - Relocation Planning

Now that you have your contract of employment and have secured a start date and a location of the practice. We can support you with finding accommodation for your relocation. It is highly recommended that you try and secure temporary accommodation through sites like AirBNB for a short period of time to let you get to know the area. We at Clarity have many tools and hints to help you. As well as working directly with clients in the area which is a real assist to ensure you make the right long term choice for you, your family and indeed your long term goals.

Step 6 - Personal Public Service Number

The Personal Public Number is your personal tax number that gives you access to local services and payment of your salary. Upon your arrival in Ireland, either as an employed GP or about to be an employed GP, you will need to apply for a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number.
The Local Social Welfare Office in Ireland would be the place to apply for your PPS Number. After getting your PPS Number, give the number to your employer to ensure that there is a minimal deduction of tax from your salary.

Step 7 - Bank Account

You will need an Irish Bank Account when you relocate to Ireland to provide your employer with your payment details. To set up an Irish bank account, visit the bank with proof of your address and your letter of employment.

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With 100s of open roles for General Practitioners or Family Physicians Ireland is an excellent choice for consideration in your relocation plans.
The possibilities are endless in terms of continuous personal and professional development. Increasing salaries. Opportunities to locum and improve your yearly income. Excellent working conditions available - day only practices, no weekends available and no out of hour commitments.

Feel free to get in touch today!

Posted on 25 April 2022 by Laura Mulchrone
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Laura Mulchrone

01 567 3123
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