Extending

This page explains how you can extend your stay in the United Kingdom if you came here as an overseas qualified doctor to take the professional and linguistic assessments board (PLAB) test.

You can apply to extend your stay if:

• you currently have permission to stay in the United Kingdom as an overseas qualified doctor intending to take the PLAB test; and
• you meet the original eligibility requirements for the category; and
• you would not, as a result of the extension remain in the United Kingdom for a period longer than 18 months for the purpose of taking the PLAB test.

You should make your application to extend your stay (we call this applying for further leave to remain) on application form FLR(O). This application form and the related guidance can be downloaded from the right side of this page.

Further information on how to complete the application form and the cost of making an application is available from the UK residency section.

You will be able to stay in the United Kingdom for the purpose of taking the PLAB test for a maximum of 18 months. At the end of the 18 month period, you will be expected to leave the United Kingdom unless you are granted leave to remain as:

• a postgraduate doctor or dentist;
• a doctor or dentist undertaking a clinical attachment or dental observation post;
• a work permit holder for employment as a doctor.