Bridging the Gap: Refugee Dentists Given Easier Access to UK Registration
The General Dental Council (GDC), the UK’s dental regulator, has introduced a new policy to significantly reduce barriers for refugee and displaced dental professionals seeking to register and practice in the UK. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these individuals, the GDC will now accept alternative forms of evidence where standard documentation cannot be provided.
This new policy is part of the GDC's commitment to being an inclusive and equitable regulator, allowing skilled professionals to integrate into the UK workforce and help address the nation’s dental access issues.
Overcoming the Documentation Challenge
Refugee and displaced dental professionals often struggle to obtain crucial documents due to circumstances beyond their control. Institutions in conflict zones may be unable to issue records, and requesting documents might alert authorities that the professional has left their country, posing a significant risk.
The required documentation that is often difficult to provide includes:
Original qualification certificates.
Letters of good standing from their home country's regulator.
Identity documents.
The Alternative Evidence Policy
Under the new policy, the GDC will evaluate candidates on a case-by-case basis if they have protected status in the UK or can prove they are genuinely unable to obtain standard documents.
Examples of the alternative evidence that may now be accepted include:
An e-visa or official refugee status document.
An affidavit or character declaration from an employer or a GDC-registered professional.
A letter from the applicant's education institution confirming completion of the relevant training.
This flexible approach covers individuals granted international protection by the Home Office, including those with refugee status, humanitarian protection, and those admitted through schemes for Afghanistan and Ukraine.
Commitment to Integration and Standards
While the GDC is committed to facilitating access and reducing "disproportionate difficulties" experienced by these applicants, the regulator maintains that all dental professionals must still meet the same rigorous standards to ensure public safety.
This move complements earlier GDC initiatives, such as offering refugee candidates priority booking access for the Overseas Registration Exam (ORE), to ensure they have a fair chance to complete the necessary steps without undue delay. By allowing these skilled professionals to restart their careers, the UK benefits from their expertise at a time when demand for dental care is high.
Original Article Details
Original Title: Refugee dentists given easier access to UK registration
Source: Dentistry.co.uk
Publication Date: November 13, 2025