What to tell us when you apply guide for physician associates and anaesthesia associates

What happens next

We’ll assess your application including the questions you have answered and the additional information you provided. We’ll treat your information confidentially. Just because you have told us something doesn’t mean we won’t approve your application.

What if something happens after I’ve submitted my application?

If your personal circumstances change in a way that may affect your declaration, you should read this guidance again. If the guidance tells you that you should tell us about something, you should contact us straight away.

Reaching our decision

We understand you’ll be keen to know the outcome of your application. We aim to make our decision as soon as possible. We do all we can to minimise delays, but if we need to carry out any enquiries this can mean it will take us longer to send you our decision. We’ll keep you informed of the progress of any enquiries.

We aim to let you know within five working days whether:

  • we need more information from you 
  • we need to make further enquires with other bodies/parties.

What enquires will we make?

We may need to verify the further information you have provided or ask other bodies/parties for further information. 

If we receive any information as part of our enquiries which is relevant to our consideration of your fitness to practise as a PA or AA, we’ll share it with you. We’ll give you time to respond to that information in writing.   

I am joining the register for the first time or re-entering the register

We know you might have concerns about starting to practise or returning to practice in the UK. Your colleagues will know that you’re a new or returning PA or AA. They will understand the pressures you might face and can provide support.

Can I practise while I’m waiting for a decision on my application?

Until December 2026, it is legal for PAs and AAs to work in the UK without holding GMC registration. However, your prospective employer may require it. From December 2026, it will become an offence to practise as a PA or AA in the UK without being registered with us.