‘’Do I need to leave my EU status as a dentist?’’
‘’Is the UK a really good option for dentists?’’
Dr Elena (name cited as an example), a 2-year experienced dentist, still remembers the moment she seriously considered leaving Spain. It wasn’t a dramatic turning point; just a quiet realisation that opportunities in working for a practice in a small Spanish town felt limited and the idea of establishing her own practice could take years.
Conversations with colleagues kept circling back to one place, the UK. Working in the UK as an EU dentist seems logical with its high demand for overseas dentists, a legacy of structured healthcare systems, and better earning potential.
But also uncertainty, right?
Regulations had changed after Brexit, and no one seemed to have a clear, simple answer for the EU-dentists. Still, the idea stayed with her. Not as a dream, but as a possibility worth exploring. So here is a 5-step guide to get you started as an EU-dentist working in the UK.
What Changed for Overseas EU Dentists Applying to Work in the UK after Brexit?
Is it still possible to work in the UK for an EU dentist? The short answer is YES. The long answer is YES, but with certain conditions.
Before Brexit, EU dentists could register more easily and move freely. Now, the process is more structured, but still very much achievable. The key difference now is that you need to go through formal recognition and registration steps, just like any other international professional.
And once you do, the opportunities are still very much there.
The 5-Step Guide on How to Work in the UK as an EU Dentist
Like with non-EU dentists, the General Dental Council (GDC) remains the central regulatory body for all dentists in the UK. That’s where you start.
General Dental Council (GDC)
As an EU dentist, your first step is to determine whether your qualification is recognised or requires assessment.
There are two key checkpoints for this step:
- Do you hold a recognised EU dental degree?
- Can you demonstrate English language proficiency (if required)?
Unlike non-EU dentists, most EU-qualified dentists do not need to take the ORE exam. Instead, your degree is assessed for equivalence to UK standards as per the EC directive. It is good to understand that, depending on when and where you qualified, additional documentation or verification may be required.
Protip: In some cases, non-EEA dental professionals can be treated as EEA nationals for UK registration. This applies when they are a family member of an EEA national (not a UK citizen) who is moving to the UK to live or work, and they are accompanying them. Proof of this relationship and eligibility is required.
English Language Proficiency (IELTS/OET)
Even EU-dentists are required to present their English proficiency exams. This is especially predominant because in most EU countries, dental courses and the degree are not taught in English. This is usually also a requirement requested by the GDC and/or the employer.
You have two main options:
- IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 7, with no less than 6 in each section
- OET (Occupational English Test): Minimum Grade B (350–440)
These scores are also important for your visa application later in the process and remain valid for 2 years.
No ORE for Most EU Dentists
This is where your journey differs significantly from non-EU dentists. Instead of sitting for the ORE, EU dentists typically go through the following:
- Qualification assessment
- Document verification
- Application for full GDC registration
Once approved, you are eligible to practice as a dentist in the UK. This step is often faster than the ORE route, but still requires careful documentation and accuracy.
In case your qualification is incompatible with the UK standards, then you can either opt for the usual Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) pathway or the License in Dental Surgery Exam (LSD)
What is LSD?
The Royal College of Surgeons of England’s Licence in Dental Surgery (LDS) is a prestigious alternative qualification that allows overseas dentists to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and legally practice in the UK. Similar to ORE, it is a three-part exam for theory and practical exams. Unlike ORE, LSD exams are held less frequently, offer limited slots and can be expensive to prepare and appear for.
Dental Job Application in the UK and VISA Application
Post-Brexit, EU dentists now require the right to work in the UK, typically through the Skilled Worker Visa route.
This step includes:
- Securing a job offer from a UK employer (NHS or mixed practice)
- Employer sponsorship
- Completing visa documentation and compliance
Protip: Ideally, to start working in the UK for an EU dentist on time, begin looking for a job while your GDC registration process is ongoing. Use this time to strengthen your CV, network with the right peers in the EU, attend webinars, symposiums, and dental exhibitions, and connect with other EU dentists for guidance.
When choosing a role, prioritise positions that offer mentorship, especially in your first year. Maybe college seniors or professors in your country in the EU already know dentists and dental practices in the UK. Use these useful connections and relevant references to find a mentor cum employer to support diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical decision-making.
Joining structured programs like a Dental Foundation Training in the UK for Overseas Dentists can further enhance skills, provide case discussions, and help you build a strong professional network.
Budget Planning
While applying to work in the UK for an EU dentist is generally more cost-effective than the non-EU workflow, there are still expenses involved.
You should budget for:
- GDC application and documentation
- English language tests (if required)
- Visa application
- Relocation and initial settlement
Expect expenses of around 5,000 to 12,000 GBP, significantly lower, but still require planning. Think of it as an investment in a globally recognised career pathway, not just a short-term expense.
Key Takeaways
Before Brexit, EU dentists could register more easily and move freely. Now, the process is more structured, not complex, provided well planned. The key difference is now they need to go through formal recognition and registration steps, just like any other overseas dentist working in the UK. Moving from the EU, it might be difficult to navigate the guidelines and legally intensive dental industry of the UK, so you must familiarise yourself with this.
As one of the best dental recruitment agencies, we do not just help you match with the best role as a UK dentist; we also guide you in the application process of a EU-dentist, learning how to build a career in the UK. Learn more with our team now.
