Considering a Move from Ireland to Work as a Vet in the UK? Here’s What You Need to Know
As the veterinary landscape evolves, many vets working in Ireland are exploring opportunities across the Irish Sea in the UK. If you’re thinking about making the move, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the transition:
Why Irish Vets Are in High Demand
Since new visa regulations were introduced earlier this year, working as a European vet in the UK has become more challenging due to stringent visa requirements. However, Irish vets have a significant advantage—they don’t need a visa to work in the UK due to the Common Travel Area agreement. This makes Irish vets highly sought after, as they can move across borders without the bureaucratic hurdles other European vets face.
Visa and Salary Requirements
For those currently working in Ireland who do need a visa to work in the UK, it’s essential to understand the new salary requirements. If you’re over 26 and moving to the UK to work as a veterinary surgeon, you must meet a minimum salary threshold of £48,100 for a 37.5-hour work week. If you are unsure if you’d be able to meet this or want to discuss further get in touch for a confidential chat.
RCVS Registration
Before you can start working in the UK, you’ll need to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons – the UK equivalent of the VCI. This registration process involves providing proof of your qualifications and professional experience. For detailed information on how to apply and what you’ll need, check out the following link: https://www.rcvs.org.uk/registration/join-the-register-of-veterinary-surgeons/#apply
You will also need to make sure your degree is accredited which you will find here: https://www.rcvs.org.uk/registration/join-the-register-of-veterinary-surgeons/europe/
Types of Veterinary Jobs in the UK
The UK offers a wide range of veterinary positions, often with more support and a varied or advanced caseload compared to what you might find in Ireland. Opportunities include small animal, large animal, equine, and emergency and critical care (ECC) roles. The UK job market tends to offer positions that may be more specialised or have greater support structures in place, catering to different interests and career goals.
To view some UK positions take a look here on our website: https://www.lloydandcowan.com/jobs/veterinary-surgeons?source=google.com&query=&selected_locations=2635167
We will happily help you navigate the job market in the UK, showing you all your options and finding the best fit, all for free!
Mixed Practice Opportunities
If you’re a mixed vet with experience across various animal types, it’s worth noting that opportunities for a true 50/50 split between small and large animal practice may be less common in the UK. Many practices are mixed but tend to separate into distinct departments due to the challenge of finding vets with extensive experience as a truly mixed veterinary surgeon.
Other things to consider when moving to the UK.
National Insurance Number: To work in the UK, you need a National Insurance (NI) number for tax and NI contributions. Apply once you have a UK address. While you can start work before receiving it, apply as soon as possible. Your NI number ensures automatic tax and NI deductions from your salary, so you won't have to worry about it.
Find a Place to Live: You can search for suitable accommodation on various UK rental sites. Additionally, some veterinary practices provide temporary or long-term housing. We can discuss this in more detail when the time comes.
Setting up a UK bank account: You’ll likely need a UK bank account, but banks typically require proof of address to open one, so it’s best to wait until you’ve arranged housing. Meanwhile, services like Revolut offer online accounts and debit cards.
UK Mobile Number: For long stays in the UK, you’re best to get a UK sim card with a plan for data and phone calls. There are a heap of options to compare.
Need More Information?
If you’re seriously considering a move from Ireland to the UK and have questions or need guidance on the process and finding a suitable position, feel free to get in touch for more information.
We provide personalised advice to find the perfect job opportunity and assist with a smooth transition, all at no cost!
Ready to explore your veterinary career opportunities in the UK? Contact us today to find out more about making the move!
Email: sophie@lloydandcowan.com
Mobile: +447519119233