MEDS LINK · Ireland
Practise medicine in Ireland: registration and routes
Doctors must be registered with the Irish Medical Council to practise medicine in the Republic of Ireland. The route depends on where they trained, their qualifications and the division of the register they seek. MEDS LINK can help prepare a mobility project and application documents; the Medical Council decides on registration.
Sources checked on 3 October 2026
Steps to check
- 01
Identify the register division
Distinguish General Registration from Specialist Registration. General Registration does not entitle a doctor to present themselves as a specialist.
- 02
Review qualifications and training
For EU/EEA or Swiss qualifications, check the applicable recognition route and required evidence. Routes for non-EU/EEA training differ and may require credential verification through EPIC.
- 03
Prepare the evidence
Gather the degree, training records, professional status documents and other evidence required for the chosen route. Specialist qualifications require the appropriate application.
- 04
Check English requirements
The evidence of English proficiency required depends on the applicant category. Consult the Medical Council's current rules before applying.
Registration is a separate step
A job offer or recognition of a degree does not replace registration with the Irish Medical Council. The division granted also determines whether a doctor may describe themselves as a specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Is an EU medical degree enough to practise?
No. It may provide a recognition route, but Medical Council registration is still required before practising.
Does MEDS LINK grant registration?
No. MEDS LINK can help prepare the move and documents; the competent authority decides on registration.