The National Medical Commission (NMC) has recently provided a clarification regarding the norms for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) to register, work, and study in India. The Under-Graduate Medical Education Board and Ethics and Medical Registration Board of the NMC have addressed the concerns raised by FMGs, particularly those from Ukraine and the Philippines. This clarification aims to provide clear guidelines for FMGs who wish to practice medicine in India.
Provisional Registration and Rotating Internship
According to the NMC’s clarification, FMGs who have completed their medical courses in foreign medical institutes, equivalent to MBBS in India, whether through offline mode with or without one year of internship, need to obtain provisional registration from the respective State Medical Council. Following this, they must undergo a one-year Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) in accordance with the CRMI Regulation of 2021[1].
Online Mode Completion and Break in Final Year
Addressing the concerns of FMGs who took a break during their final year due to reasons such as the COVID-19 pandemic or war and completed their FMG course, including examinations, in online mode only, the NMC has provided specific provisions. These individuals will also need to obtain provisional registration from the State Medical Council and complete the CRMI[1].
Academic Mobility Program for FMGs from Ukraine
For FMGs who wish to continue their medical education from a different country (excluding India), the NMC has extended the Academic Mobility Program as a one-time measure. This scheme allows FMGs returning from Ukraine to avail the benefits of the program and complete their remaining medical course. However, it is important to note that the degree will be awarded by the university to which they transfer or migrate. FMGs interested in this option must exercise their transfer/migration/mobility within three months from the date of the NMC’s public notice[1].
Time Limit for FMG Examination/NExT
The NMC has specified that the time limit for appearing in the FMG examination or the National Exit Test (NExT) will be ten years from the completion of FMGs’ training or course in a foreign medical institution[1]. This provision ensures that FMGs are given ample time to complete their education and gain the necessary qualifications.
Conclusion
The NMC’s clarification regarding the norms for FMGs to register, work, and study in India is a significant step in providing clear guidelines and addressing the concerns of foreign medical graduates. The provision for obtaining provisional registration, completing the Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship, and accommodating FMGs from Ukraine through the Academic Mobility Program demonstrates the NMC’s commitment to facilitating the integration of foreign medical graduates into the Indian healthcare system. These guidelines will not only benefit FMGs but also contribute to the overall development of the medical profession in India.
Please note that the information provided is based on the clarification issued by the NMC and should not be considered as legal advice. It is recommended for FMGs to thoroughly review the official guidelines, consult with relevant authorities, and ensure compliance with the requirements for registration, work, and study in India.
