You are currently using an unsupported browser which could affect the appearance and functionality of this website. Please consider upgrading to the latest version or using alternatives such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

MTI process explained

The MTI process for hospitals offering placements

The MTI process contains several steps and involves many parties. It requires the continuous cooperation between applicants, the MTI Lead, hospitals, the GMC and the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges. Efficient communication between these parties reduces the risk of delays in placing MTI doctors. 

This flowchart shows the subsequent steps of the MTI process and explains which actions are taken by which parties.

GMC registration process

Please be aware of the changes to the GMC registration process introduced on 11 June 2018.

Details are available on the GMC website.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

After receiving provisional GMC registration, MTI doctors are ready to obtain their Certificate of Sponsorship from the AoMRC. The CoS is a necessary document for the Tier 5 visa application. The MTI Lead at the RCOG applies for the doctors’ CoS but it is possible only after the hospital returns the completed ‘MTI Application Form’ to the RCOG.

In order to avoid delays in issuing the CoS for the doctors and postponing their start date, hospitals are required to complete and return this form to the  as soon as possible once asked to do so by the RCOG.

Please ensure the doctor's name on the MTI application form, GMC application and CoS all match with the full name as it appears in the doctor's passport.

Important information for hospitals

Hospitals must check the AoMRC MTI Application Form for any mistakes before returning it to the RCOG. The Academy will use this form to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the doctor and if the details on the form are incorrect, it will result in an erroneous CoS being forwarded to the doctor.

Hospitals must also make sure that the form is signed by all parties: the supervising consultant, the trust medical personnel/HR and the LETB/deanery. Incomplete forms will not be considered by the Academy.

Information about the visa

MTI candidates can apply for their Tier 5 visa only after receiving the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges. Do not attempt to apply for your visa before receiving this document.

The RCOG will apply for your CoS immediately after you obtain provisional GMC registration and only when a hospital sends back the forms required for the application to the RCOG.

Please do not enquire about the progress of your CoS application. The RCOG processes over 60 CoS applications.

An example Certificate of Sponsorship with full explanations of sections

Important information for applicants

Please remember that you must apply for the Tier 5 visa from your home country (or in some cases from the country you work in) but never from the UK. You must only use the visa for travel to the UK to begin your placement. Once you arrive in the UK, your Tier 5 visa will activate and be valid for you to stay in the UK for exactly two years from your arrival date. Tier 5 visas cannot be extended.

For more information regarding your visas visit: