Self-employment

An overseas, non–European Economic Area (EEA) dentist seeking entry to the UK with the intention of working as a general practitioner (GP) in the NHS general practice or of providing private dental services, would need full registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) and entry clearance to the UK.

Commissioning Boards are responsible for providing Primary Care dental treatment at the local level. It is not possible to set up an NHS General Dental Practice without the agreement of the local Commissioning Board.

There are currently different regional employment procedures if you want to work in NHS general dental practice in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Dentists who wish to practise in the Republic of Ireland must register with the Dental Council of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is a separate EEA country which has its own procedures and conditions.