Working in the UK

Veterinarians

Overseas Veterinarians may need a visa or work permit to work in the UK, and you will need to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to practice as a vet. Registration is available to:

• Graduates in Veterinary Science from London, Glasgow, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Liverpool, and Bristol Universities.
• Graduates from EU/EEA Member States holding a recognised qualification from an EU/EEA Member State.
• Graduates from Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Queensland and Murdoch Universities
• Graduates from Guelph, AVC, and Saskatchewan.
• Graduates from New Zealand – Massey
• Graduates with BVSc from Pretoria.
• Graduates from accredited AVMA schools who have passed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam.
• Persons who successfully complete the Statutory Membership Examination of the RCVS.

Please contact us for our information sheet. Alternatively you can contact the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for more information at membership@rcvs.org.uk .

We can help you with information about visas, tax, registration etc. Please contact us for further details jobs@kookaburravets.com or see our Useful Links page.

Working as a locum is a great way to travel the UK. It is also a good way to gain additional experience in working with different people, in different conditions, and improve your veterinary skills. Please note that locums should have a minimum of 2 years experience.

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Veterinary Nurses

There are many opportunities for qualified veterinary nurses in the UK. Qualified nurses are key members of the veterinary team, providing skilled care for sick animals and support for their owners. Overseas Veterinary nurses may need a visa or work permit to work in the UK.

Veterinary nurses listed with the RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) are particularly in demand. Veterinary nurses who have trained outside the UK may be eligible for RCVS listing but will need to apply for consideration of their qualification in comparison with the UK qualification before listing as a UK veterinary nurse can take place. For further details or an application pack, please contact the RCVS at vetnursing@rcvs.org.uk

A veterinary nurse who is not qualified and/or RCVS listed may legally undertake only a limited range of basic animal care.

Please note that locums should have a minimum of 2 years experience.

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