Voluntary removal
If you are not practising as a veterinary surgeon and are not involved in any veterinary-related activity (such as meat hygiene inspection) in the United Kingdom, then you can remove your name from the RCVS Register of Members by completing a voluntary removal form (see 'Related documents' box - top right).
If you are voluntarily removed from the Register, your name can be restored later, and at a much lower cost, than if you allow your membership to lapse and are removed for non-payment of the retention fee.
Restoration
If you have been removed from the Register, you may be restored to it by completing a Restoration Form, available to download from the 'Related documents' box (top right), and submitting it with the relevant payment and documentation to the Registration Department.
You must initially restore to the same category of membership as at the time of your removal.
If you have been off the Register for over one year, you will also normally need to produce a certificate (letter) of good professional standing from the veterinary authority with whom you are currently registered, plus a notarised translation if it is not issued in English, and a copy of your passport / EU ID card.
Period of Supervised Practice Guidance for Veterinary Nurses
For returning to the Register of Veterinary Nurses after a period of five years absence or more, please download the guidance notes on Period of Supervised Practice (PSP) from the 'Related documents' box - top right.