HCPC Registration Guide: Process, Eligibility, Documents & Fees Explained

HCPC Registration Guide All you need to Know

For healthcare professionals looking to work in the UK, HCPC registration is an essential step. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) regulates a wide range of health and care professions to ensure practitioners meet national standards of training, skills, and conduct.

Whether you’re a physiotherapist, radiographer, biomedical scientist, or another regulated professional, this guide covers everything you need to know about HCPC registration—including the process, eligibility, documents required, how to apply, and the associated fees.

What Is HCPC Registration?

The HCPC is the regulatory body for 15 health and care professions in the UK. To practice legally in these fields, registration with the HCPC is mandatory. This ensures that professionals maintain high standards and protect public safety.

The HCPC maintains a public register of professionals who meet its standards. Without registration, even qualified professionals cannot work in their field within the UK.

Eligibility for HCPC Registration

To be eligible for HCPC registration, you must:

• Hold a recognized qualification in your profession.
• Be fit to practise, which includes physical and mental health, professional conduct, and competence.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English, especially if you qualified outside the UK.
• Meet HCPC’s standards of proficiency and standards of conduct, performance, and ethics.

For International Applicants:

If you obtained your qualification outside the UK, you must undergo an international registration process that includes qualification assessment, work experience verification, and language proficiency evaluation.

Documents Needed for HCPC Registration

To complete your application, you’ll need to provide several documents, including:

1. Proof of Identity

• Valid passport or national ID
• Recent passport-size photograph

2. Educational Qualifications

• Degree certificate(s)
• Transcript of academic records

3. Professional Experience

• Work reference or employment verification
• Internship completion certificate (if applicable)

4. Proof of English Language Proficiency

• IELTS (Academic) test results with a minimum score of 7.0 in each component, or
• Confirmation from your educational institution that the course was taught in English

5. Certificate of Good Standing

• Issued by the professional body where you’re currently or previously registered

6. Character Declaration

• Signed declaration regarding your fitness to practise

All documents not in English must be accompanied by an official translation.

HCPC Registration Process

The HCPC registration process includes several key steps:

1. Qualification Assessment

HCPC evaluates your educational background and ensures it meets UK standards. This may involve reviewing your course content and duration.

2. Character & Health Checks

Applicants must declare any criminal convictions, disciplinary action, or health issues that may impact their ability to practise safely.

3. English Language Proficiency

If English isn’t your first language, you must meet HCPC’s English language requirements, typically through IELTS or an equivalent test.

4. Verification of Work Experience

Applicants must provide details of relevant work experience, especially if applying from overseas. References may be contacted for validation.

How to Apply for HCPC Registration

You can apply either via international application or UK-based application, depending on where you obtained your qualifications.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create an HCPC account on their official website.
2. Select your profession and application route (UK or international).
3. Upload the required documents.
4. Fill in your personal and educational details accurately.
5. Submit your declarations and consents.
6. Pay the registration fee.
7. Submit the application for review.

Once submitted, HCPC will acknowledge receipt and begin evaluating your application. The standard processing time is 60 working days for international applicants, though this can vary.

Creating an Online Application

To streamline the process, HCPC offers a secure online portal where you can:

• Register and create a personal account
• Fill in and save your application
• Upload scanned documents and photos
• Track the progress of your application
• Communicate with the HCPC directly

Make sure to regularly check your HCPC account and email for any updates or requests for additional information.

HCPC Registration Fees

As of 2025, the HCPC registration fees are as follows:

For UK Applicants:

• Application Scrutiny Fee: £68 (non-refundable)
• Registration Fee: £196.24 (covers two years)

For International Applicants:

• Application Scrutiny Fee: £495 (non-refundable)
• Registration Fee: £196.24 (upon successful approval)

Additional Costs:

• IELTS exam fee (if required): approx. £180
• Document translation fees (if applicable)

All payments are made online via debit/credit card through the HCPC portal. Remember, the scrutiny fee is non-refundable even if your application is unsuccessful.

Getting registered with the HCPC is a crucial step for any healthcare professional planning to practise in the UK. It’s a thorough but straightforward process designed to ensure patient safety and professional competence.

By understanding the eligibility requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application steps carefully, you can secure your registration and begin your healthcare career in the UK with confidence.

If you’re an international healthcare professional looking for assistance with your HCPC application or documentation, consider working with a consultancy that specializes in UK healthcare placements—they can simplify the process and guide you every step of the way.