Thinking about Working in Ireland as a GP ?
Ireland offers a structured, well-supported route to long-term practice and specialist recognition.
GP Conversion Programme / Express Pathway to Family Medicine in Ireland
If you are a South African General Practitioner (GP) or Family Medicine doctor exploring new job opportunities, Ireland offers a structured and supported route to long-term practice and specialist recognition.
With 3+ years post-internship experience, you may be eligible for the Express Pathway / GP Conversion Programme in Family Medicine while working as a GP in Ireland.
What is the programme?
Ireland’s two-year GP Conversion Programme allows experienced Family Medicine doctors to work in rural General Practice clinics while completing structured, self-directed learning supported by the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP).
Over the two years, you will:
- Work as a GP in approved Irish practices
- Complete structured ICGP-supported learning
- Sit the CKT and CCT exams
- Progress toward the Irish Medical Council Specialist Register in General Practice
Eligibility Criteria for the GP Conversion Programme
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the 2-year programme:
- Hold a primary medical degree recognised by the Irish Medical Council (IMC)
- Be eligible for General Division IMC registration
- Have a minimum of 36 months of recent and relevant GP / Family Medicine experience delivering unsupervised primary care
Experience that does NOT count:
- Emergency Medicine
- Out-of-hours clinics
- Walk-in GP clinics
- Minor injuries units
Why South African Doctors Choose Ireland
- High demand for GPs and Family Medicine doctors
- Clear medical registration and training pathways
- Competitive GP salaries and contract options
- Strong work–life balance
- English-speaking healthcare system
- Safe, welcoming country for doctors and families
Ireland remains one of the most popular destinations for South African doctors seeking jobs abroad.
Register Your Interest Here
FAQ Section
Can South African GPs work in Ireland?
Yes. Many South African General Practitioners and Family Medicine doctors work in Ireland every year. Subject to Irish Medical Council (IMC) registration and relevant GP experience, South African doctors are highly sought after due to comparable training standards.
What GP experience is required to work in Ireland?
To be eligible for the GP Conversion Programme / Express Pathway, doctors must have at least 36 months of recent and relevant experience in Family Medicine or General Practice, providing unsupervised care in a primary care setting.
This must include managing acute and chronic illness across all patient groups.
What exams are required during the GP Conversion Programme?
Doctors on the programme must complete:
- CKT – Clinical Knowledge Test
- CCT – Competency Completion Test
Successful completion allows progression to the Irish Medical Council Specialist Register in General Practice.
How long does IMC registration take for South African doctors?
IMC registration timelines vary depending on documentation and experience, but typically take several months. Starting early and submitting correct documentation is critical to avoiding delays. MatchMedics supports South African doctors throughout the IMC registration process.
Do I need specialist registration before moving to Ireland?
No. Many South African GPs move to Ireland on General Division IMC registration and enter the GP Conversion Programme after starting work. Specialist registration is achieved after completing the programme and exams.
Can I bring my family with me to Ireland?
In most cases, yes. Doctors moving to Ireland on eligible work permits can bring immediate family members, subject to visa and immigration requirements. We can advise on this as part of the process.
How do I know if I’m eligible for GP jobs in Ireland?
The best first step is an eligibility assessment. MatchMedics will review your qualifications and experience and give you honest, no-obligation advice on whether Ireland, and the GP Conversion Programme, is suitable for you.