How long will it take me?

For most IMGs on the PLAB route it takes 12 to 24 months from booking the English test to the first NHS shift. A fast run is about 11 months; delays usually come from PLAB 2 seat availability, document verification and waiting for a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Seat availability moves through the year. Plan for three to six months between passing PLAB 1 and sitting PLAB 2, and book the moment your PLAB 1 result is released — seats for the next few months are usually taken within days.

Once you have passed PLAB 2 and your documents are verified, registration is typically four to eight weeks, including the identity check appointment. Delays are almost always caused by primary source verification of your medical degree or a missing certificate of good standing.

After your trust issues a Certificate of Sponsorship, standard processing is around three weeks from outside the UK, with priority services often available for an extra fee. Add time for the appointment and biometrics.