Does PLAB lead to UK permanent residency?

No, not everyone who goes through the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) pathway in the UK automatically gets Permanent Residency (PR).

Here’s a clear explanation:

• PLAB allows international medical graduates to register with the General Medical Council (GMC) and work as doctors in the UK.

• However, PR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) is a separate immigration status and is not guaranteed.

• To be eligible for PR, doctors must usually live and work in the UK for at least 5 years under a valid visa (such as a Tier 2/Skilled Worker visa), meet residency requirements, and show good character and continuous lawful residence.

So, passing PLAB is just one step towards working in the UK as a doctor—it does not guarantee PR. Whether someone gets PR depends on how long they stay, what visa they hold, and if they meet the requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain later on.