United Kingdom

There are eight veterinary schools in the UK which award degrees that have been approved by the RCVS:

Graduates from any of these schools are eligible to register as a member of the RCVS once their degree has been conferred.

For non-EU nationals / European Union rights

Visa / immigration / work permit requirements

Membership of the RCVS licenses you to practise veterinary surgery in the UK. If you have a qualification that meets the requirements above, you can apply regardless of your nationality.

However, it does not exempt you from UK entry visa or immigration requirements where applicable. Applicants are advised to ascertain these before attempting entry into the UK. Information and assistance can be obtained from the British Embassy or Consulates in Canada or the UK Border Agency.

Applicants seeking long-term employment in the UK may need a work permit, which can only be obtained by an employer.

How to apply

Applicants can complete their registration online.

Please note that registration for UK graduates takes place once a year, between April and May.

If you are looking to register outside of this period (between June and March), you will need to apply separately to register with the RCVS.

Applications - Veterinary surgeons
- Registration dates
- Statutory framework for registration