Temporary registration

About temporary registration

We consider temporary registration on a case-by-case basis under Section 7 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.

It provides a pathway for vets to practise legally in the UK when full registration isn't available or appropriate. This type of registration is always short term and must be supervised.

Rules and restrictions

Temporary registration comes with strict conditions. If you do not follow them, your registration will be removed.

Circumstances

You may be eligible if you are:

A UK graduand who has passed final exams but has not yet had your degree conferred.
A postgraduate student studying at a UK veterinary school.
A vet accompanying animals to sporting events or during travel.
A specialist teaching specific procedures or filling skill gaps.
An Official Veterinarian carrying out meat premises inspections during staff shortages.

Period

Temporary registration normally lasts no longer than five years. We'll specify your exact registration period based on your circumstances.

Place

You can only practise in locations we specify on your registration. This may be limited to:

Specific premises or practices
Certain geographical areas
Named institutions or events

Code of Professional Conduct

You must follow the Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Surgeons throughout your temporary registration period.

CPD

You're exempt from continuing professional development requirements while temporarily registered.

Use of post nominal MRCVS

You cannot use the post nominal letters MRCVS unless you're a Member or Fellow of the RCVS through another route.

Working in general practice

If you want to work in general veterinary practice under temporary registration, you must:

Work under the direct supervision of an RCVS Member or Fellow who is a practising specialist
Meet English language requirements (IELTS score of 6.0 or above, or OET Grade C / 250+ in each component)
Have your supervising vet take full responsibility for supervision arrangements

How to apply

Your application route depends on your specific circumstances. Select the right category and provide all required documents.

UK graduands

For vets who have passed final exams but are waiting for your degree:

Complete the UK graduands application form
Provide proof of exam results
Submit evidence of pending degree conferment

Postgraduate students

If you are studying on a UK veterinary postgraduate programme:

Complete the postgraduate student application form
Provide confirmation of university enrolment
Provide programme details and duration

Vets accompanying animals

If you are accompanying animals to events or during travel:

Complete the animal companion application form
Provide event or travel details
Include animal health documentation

Specialists and teachers

If you are teaching specific procedures or filling skill shortages:

Submit the specialist application form
Demonstrate relevant expertise and qualifications
Provide a detailed job description or teaching requirements

Official Veterinarians

If you are working on meat premises inspections during staff shortages:

Use the Official Veterinarian application form
Include evidence of relevant training
Provide details of the specific premises and period needed

European veterinarians

If you qualified from a European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE) recognised institution:

Complete the European veterinarian application form
Provide qualification verification from your EAEVE institution
Include language proficiency evidence if required

When to apply

Submit your application well in advance of when you need temporary registration. We process applications within eight weeks of receiving your completed form and supporting documents.

Get more information

Need help with your application or have questions about temporary registration?

Phone: 020 7202 0707

Email: [email protected]

We're here to help you understand the process and ensure your application is complete.