If you’ve passed PLAB 1 and are preparing for PLAB 2, you already know the challenges, like limited exam slots, repeated travel to the UK, high costs, and long waiting periods before you can actually start working. For many international medical graduates, this delay can mean years away from clinical practice. But what if your PLAB 1 qualification could help you start working sooner, without waiting for PLAB 2?
Qatar offers a practical alternative. With recent updates from the Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP), doctors who have passed PLAB 1 may be eligible for exemption from the Qatar Prometric Exam, allowing a faster route to employment.
Why Many PLAB Doctors Are Reconsidering the UK Pathway
While the UK remains a popular destination, many doctors face:
- Long waiting times for PLAB 2 seats
- High costs of travel, accommodation, and repeated attempts
- Delays in entering the workforce despite passing PLAB 1
- Rising competition for NHS training and non-training posts
For doctors seeking earlier clinical exposure and financial stability, Qatar presents a strong alternative.
Why Qatar Makes Sense After PLAB 1
- PLAB 1 is internationally recognised
- Possible exemption from the Qatar Prometric Exam
- Tax-free salary
- Modern, well-equipped hospitals
- Multinational healthcare workforce
- Opportunity to gain Middle East experience while planning long-term goals
PLAB 1 & Qatar Licensing Exemption - How Does It Work?
To practice medicine in Qatar, all doctors must obtain a license from the Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners (QCHP). Typically, international doctors are required to pass the Qatar Prometric Exam, a computer-based multiple-choice test assessing general clinical knowledge, patient management, and ethics.
Qatar Prometric Exam Overview
Feature | Details |
| Exam Type | Computer-based MCQs |
| Number of Questions | 150 |
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Passing Score | 60% |
| Focus Areas | General medicine, patient management, ethics |
How PLAB 1 Can Help You Skip the Prometric Exam
Doctors who have cleared PLAB 1 may be eligible for Prometric Exam exemption, provided their credentials are verified and approved by the DHP. This allows you to avoid another licensing exam and start practicing in Qatar sooner, turning your PLAB 1 qualification into real-world clinical experience without unnecessary delays.
Eligibility Criteria for PLAB 1 Doctors
To be considered for Qatar licensing exemption after PLAB 1, doctors generally need to meet the following requirements:
- PLAB 1 Certification: Must be valid and verified through an official verification company.
- Medical Degree: Recognized MBBS or equivalent from a certified institution.
- Internship Completion: Successfully completed internship/house job.
- Clinical Experience: 0–5 years post-internship experience in recognized hospitals.
- Good Standing: No disciplinary actions from previous licensing authorities.
- Verification: All documents and exam results must be verified via DataFlow or an equivalent recognized service.
Note: Final eligibility for Prometric Exam exemption is subject to approval by the Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP).
Required Experience & Documents
Clinical Experience
- 0–5 years post-internship experience in recognised hospitals
- 5 years experience: Eligible to work as a General Practitioner (GP)
- Less than 5 years: Work under supervision as a Registered Medical Officer (RMO)
Essential Documents
- Internship Completion Certificate
- Good Standing Certificate
- PLAB 1 result
- Degree & registration verification via DataFlow
Important DHP Notes
According to the latest DHP circular:
- The qualifying exam must be valid
- All exams must be verified by an official verification company
- No exam will be accepted without verification after 01-01-2026
For clarification, contact: DHPRegistration@moph.gov.qa. If delayed response, you can always contact our expert team for further assistance. Academically helps you with DataFlow/ Document verification. If you need to go hassle-free to Qatar, get our help and start practicing in Qatar soon!
Salary & Benefits for Doctors in Qatar
Feature | Details |
| Monthly Salary | INR 5–9 Lakh |
| Current Openings | 2000+ |
| Income Tax | 0% |
| Additional Benefits | Housing allowance, health insurance, annual leave, professional development |
Who Is This Pathway Ideal For?
- Doctors who have passed PLAB 1
- Those waiting for PLAB 2
- Doctors seeking earlier clinical exposure
- IMGs looking for tax-free income and international experience
Conclusion
PLAB 1 does not have to be a waiting phase. With Qatar’s updated licensing pathway, UK-qualified doctors now have an opportunity to start working sooner without sitting another exam. By understanding the licensing requirements, preparing documents early, and completing proper verification, you can turn your PLAB 1 qualification into real clinical experience, financial stability, and long-term career growth.