VetGDP: Information for overseas-qualified vets

The information on this page is for:

• Vets who qualified overseas and are starting a job in the UK with less than 18 months of experience in a comparable role.
• UK-qualified vets who practised overseas and are now starting a UK-based role with less than 18 months of experience in a comparable role. 

Please note - exemptions may apply. 

Why we recommend VetGDP

Even with experience, transitioning to UK practice involves new regulations, different client expectations, and varying workplace cultures. VetGDP advisers understand these challenges and can help you navigate them effectively.

Vets with over 18 months' experience

If you're: 

• An international registrant, or
• A UK-qualified vet returning to the UK

and you have between 18 months and three years of comparable experience, enrolment in the VetGDP is recommended but not mandatory.

Log into your RCVS My Account and choose the VetGDP statement: 'OS over 18 months experience'.

Even if you're not required to enrol, the VetGDP is still a valuable source of support and guidance during your transition into UK veterinary practice, and we would encourage you to take part in the programme. 

Video: VetGDP for overseas vets and UK-qualified vets returning from overseas

This short animation provides key information about the VetGDP for international vets and returning UK-qualified vets.

Below the video, you'll find a step-by-step checklist to help you get started.

VetGDP checklist for overseas and returning vets

1. The first step for all vets joining the Register from overseas is to log into their RCVS My Account and complete their VetGDP statement.
2. Vets who qualified overseas and are beginning a position in the UK with less than 18 months of comparable experience must enrol in the VetGDP.
3. Vets who qualified in the UK, practised overseas, and are starting a UK role with less than 18 months of comparable experience must enrol in the VetGDP.
4. For vets with between 18 months and three years of comparable experience, enrolment in the VetGDP is recommended but not mandatory.
5. Both your employer and your VetGDP Adviser must complete the required VetGDP declarations.
6. It is essential to confirm that your new employer is a VetGDP-approved Graduate Development Practice/Workplace. This means they have submitted the necessary declarations and have at least one VetGDP Adviser on their team. Look for the VetGDP logo on their communications - if you don't see it, don't hesitate to ask.
7. Once you have started your new job, you will collaborate with your VetGDP Adviser to agree the Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) that cover the scope of your responsibilities.
8. Once you have agreed your EPAs, you should add them to your e-portfolio - please refer to the e-portfoilo user guide for further guidance on this.
9. As you progress through the programme, you should meet regularly with your VetGDP Adviser - at least once a month - to discuss your progress and any support you may need. This may include guidance on clinical consultations and feedback on your cases.
10. You and your adviser will document your progress in your e-portfolio, tracking your growth from the early weeks through to greater experience and independence.
11. To complete the VetGDP, you must demonstrate your ability to perform all tasks related to your role confidently and independently. You will collaborate with your VetGDP Adviser to determine the appropriate time to submit your e-portfolio to the RCVS for peer review and approval.
12. The VetGDP typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on your experiences. If you require additional time, please email the VetGDP team at [email protected] to discuss your options.
13. You can find further helpful guidance in our Working in the UK course at the RCVS Academy. If you have any questions, please email the VetGDP team at [email protected].