Which registration category is right for me?

Text version of the flowchart 'Which registration category is right for me?' 

'Veterinary surgery' includes the following: the diagnosis of animal diseases and injuries, including diagnostic tests; the provision of advice based upon such diagnosis; the medical or surgical treatment of animals; and the performance of surgical operations on animals.

However, 'veterinary surgery' is not limited to these clinical activities. It also extends to other activities that are considered the sole preserve of a veterinary surgeon, ie: they cannot also be carried out by a layperson.

It should be noted that the description 'layperson' refers not only to those without veterinary qualifications but also to anyone removed from the Register of Veterinary Surgeons as well as those with overseas veterinary qualifications who are not eligible to be on the Register.

Please note: For registration purposes, UK includes the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

Are you working inside or outside the UK?

Path 1: In the UK

1.1: Does the role or the activities you wish to perform involve, either wholly or partially, 'veterinary surgery' as listed above?

Yes: You need to be 'UK Practising'

No: go to 1.2

1.2: Is the role or activity you wish to undertake one that is the sole preserve of a veterinary surgeon, ie: the role specifies you must be a veterinary surgeon OR a layperson could not carry out the activity?

Yes: You need to be 'UK Practising'

No: You can change to 'Non-practising'

Path 2: Outside the UK

2.1: Does the role or the activities you wish to perform involve, either wholly or partially, 'veterinary surgery' as listed above?

Yes: You can be 'Practising outside the UK'

No: go to 2.2

2.2: Is the role or activity you wish to undertake one that is the sole preserve of a veterinary surgeon, ie: the role specifies you must be a veterinary surgeon OR a layperson could not carry out the activity?

Yes: go to 2.3

No: you can change to 'Non-practising'

2.3: Are you working directly with a vet on the 'UK Practising' Register or with members of the public in the UK?

Yes: go to 2.4

No: You can change to 'Practising outside the UK'

2.4: Are working directly with members of the public in the UK?

Yes: You need to be ‘UK Practising

No: go to 2.5

2.5: Are you working 'vet-to-vet', meaning your work is being signed off by another 'UK Practising' vet?

Yes: You can change to 'Practising outside the UK'

No: You need to be 'UK Practising'

Please note: There is no regulatory requirement to remain on the Register of Veterinary Surgeons unless you need to be 'UK Practising'. As 'Non-practising' or 'Practising outside the UK', you also have the option of removing your name from the Register.