The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC[1]) has recently introduced a policy shift that has left thousands of foreign medical graduates (FMGs) stranded. The decision, aimed at tightening eligibility for provisional registration, has sparked widespread confusion and frustration across the medical community.
Only Recognised Foreign Universities Now Eligible
According to the new policy, only graduates from foreign medical universities recognised by the PMDC can now apply for provisional registration and house jobs in Pakistan. Those graduating from non-recognised institutions must first clear the National Registration Examination (NRE) before obtaining a license.
This move has particularly affected graduates from countries such as China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan. Thousands of Pakistani students pursue medical education in these nations.
Many returning graduates found their registration portals blocked earlier this year. Initially, they were told it was a technical issue. However, after two months, the PMDC implemented the new policy, locking out hundreds of applicants mid-process.
Dr. Rafey Sher, a graduate of the International University of Kyrgyzstan, expressed his frustration. He said:
“Students from a batch just six months before us got licences, but our applications were locked and later rejected under the new policy.”
He added that the delay has already cost many graduates their house-job opportunities as hospital slots are now full.
Conflicting Numbers and Rising Protests Against PMDC
The PMDC insists that only around 700 students are affected by the change. However, representatives of foreign graduates estimate the number to be closer to 3,000. Graduates argue that several applicants couldn’t even access the registration portal to verify their eligibility.
To make matters worse, the Council has doubled the fee for foreign university recognition from $5,000 to $10,000. This makes the process even more restrictive.
The PMDC claims:
“The revision aims to ensure patient safety and strengthen the healthcare system.”
Yet, many students and lawmakers disagree. Dr. Sher and other affected graduates have taken their concerns to parliament, where PPP members and Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal have been approached for intervention.
Local Graduates Also Facing Delays
The confusion is not limited to foreign graduates. Even local students from recognised universities like Jinnah Sindh Medical University report massive delays in provisional licensing and house-job placements.
Dr. Fatima Abid, one of the affected graduates, said:
“Delays are caused by procedural backlogs and slow inspection processes.”
Graduates across Pakistan are now urging the PMDC to restore transparency and streamline its registration process. The ongoing policy confusion has not only delayed careers but also shaken trust in the country’s medical regulatory system.
Until the PMDC issues a clear and consistent implementation plan, thousands of young doctors remain in professional uncertainty, waiting for a resolution that could define their medical futures.