What the UK Immigration White Paper means for international dentists

An update from Libby Jones, Chief People Officer at mydentist

You may have recently seen news about proposed changes to the UK’s immigration rules. If you’re currently overseas and thinking about coming to work as a dentist in the UK, announcements like this can be worrying so we thought we’d try to help you understand it a little better.

At mydentist, we’re proud to support one of the largest communities of international dentists in the UK. Our people values – we respect each other, we grow together, we achieve as one – guide everything we do, and we’re committed to helping our international colleagues feel welcomed, empowered and supported every step of the way.

We’ve helped hundreds of international dentists start successful careers in the UK and we’re continuing to recruit talented dentists from around the world.

What’s changing – and what could it mean for you?

The proposals set out in the government’s Immigration White Paper are not finalised, and we expect ongoing discussions to take place over the coming months. But based on what’s been announced so far, the impact on international dentists is minimal.

Here are some of the key points we think it’s useful for you to know:

• The new minimum skill level for visas will be RQF6 (degree level). Dentists already meet this requirement by holding a BDS or equivalent qualification – so there’s no change here.
• Minimum earnings thresholds are increasing. We will have to wait for the new thresholds to be announced, but the current earnings threshold for dentists is already above the existing threshold so this is unlikely to change anything for sponsorship.
• The required English language level for skilled workers is B2. For registration with the GDC, a higher level is already required (equivalent to C1), so dentists should already meet this standard.
• New English language requirements are being introduced for dependants. This includes meeting A1 level when applying for a visa and progressing to B2 over time.
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications may now take 10 years. However, the government has suggested that individuals who contribute to the UK economy and society may be able to shorten this period.

Our commitment to international dentists

We’re actively engaging with the UK Government to ensure that international dentists can continue to build long and successful careers here. These proposals are still under review, and we’ll keep monitoring the situation closely – keeping you updated every step of the way.

If you’re just starting your journey, there are still lots of routes to join us. With increased capacity on the Overseas Registration Exam (ORE), there are more opportunities than ever to take your next step.

Whether you’re preparing for the ORE or the Licence in Dental Surgery (LDS), or already registered with the GDC, we’re here to support you.

Talk to our team

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you’d just like to speak to someone about what the changes might mean for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

We’re here to help – and we’re proud to support international dentists at every stage of their journey.