Major Breakthrough: Andhra Pradesh FMGs Begin Receiving PRs

Foreign Medical Graduates in Andhra Pradesh Get Relief

In a significant development for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) in Andhra Pradesh, the long-awaited process of issuing Permanent Registrations (PRs) has finally commenced. After enduring a frustrating two-year wait marked by protests and legal battles, these graduates are now starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. The issuance of PRs is crucial for FMGs, as it enables them to practice medicine or pursue further studies in India.

As of March 21, 2026, approximately 30 FMGs have received their PRs since the process began on March 12, 2026. This initial step, while slow, has ignited hope among the remaining 400 graduates who have been in limbo during this challenging period. The delays were exacerbated by the pandemic, which disrupted the studies of many FMGs, leading to additional hurdles in their path to registration.

Understanding the PR Process for FMGs

To qualify for a PR, a medical graduate must complete an MBBS-equivalent program abroad, pass a national-level screening examination, and finish a one-year Compulsory Rotatory Medical Internship (CRMI). However, many FMGs from Andhra Pradesh faced an unexpected requirement to undertake an additional year of internship due to pandemic-related disruptions. The A.P. Medical Council (APMC) mandated this extra year, which contradicted a directive from the National Medical Commission (NMC) issued on June 19, 2024. This directive stated that graduates possessing valid compensatory certificates from their universities would not need to undergo extra internship training.

Despite a favorable ruling from the Andhra Pradesh High Court that instructed the APMC to issue PRs without imposing the additional internship requirement, progress remained stagnant for FMGs. Frustrated, they sought intervention from Health Secretary Saurabh Gaur. Gaur assured them that efforts would be made to expedite the PR issuance process.

Government Support and Recent Developments

On March 5, 2026, a letter from Secretary Gaur to the APMC Registrar emphasized the necessity for strict adherence to the High Court's orders. The letter warned that any delays or misinterpretations could lead to unnecessary legal complications and administrative issues. This communication was crucial, as it underscored the urgency of addressing the FMGs' concerns.

In a related update, the NMC issued a notification on March 18, 2026, clarifying that FMGs who have successfully passed the FMG examination, completed their internships, and hold compensatory certificates are eligible for registration. This announcement provided a much-needed sense of relief for the graduates who had been waiting anxiously for their PRs.

Ongoing Concerns Amidst Progress

While the recent developments offer some hope, FMGs still face hurdles. The APMC has now requested an apostille from the Indian Embassy on the compensatory certificates, a requirement not mentioned in the NMC's March notification. This new stipulation has left many students anxious, as they worry about potential delays in the registration process.

The repercussions of these delays have been significant. Many FMGs have experienced a complete halt in their careers, remaining unemployed despite completing a rigorous six-year medical program, passing the screening exam, and finishing their internship. One graduate, Karthik from Srikakulam district, noted the frustration of watching peers advance while they remain stuck in a bureaucratic limbo.

The Path Forward for FMGs in Andhra Pradesh

Looking ahead, the FMGs are hopeful that the PR issuance process will accelerate, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming NEET-PG exams. Karthik expressed a desire to receive his PR by August, which would allow him to take the exam and pursue further education. The urgency is palpable, as many graduates are eager to transition from years of waiting to contributing to the healthcare sector in India.

As the situation develops, FMGs will be closely monitoring any updates from the APMC and the NMC. The outcome of these efforts will not only affect their professional trajectories but also highlight the broader challenges faced by medical graduates in navigating the complexities of certification and registration in India.

In conclusion, while the recent issuance of PRs marks a pivotal moment for FMGs in Andhra Pradesh, the road ahead is still fraught with uncertainties. The graduates will need to remain vigilant and proactive as they work toward securing their futures in the medical profession. The recent government actions offer hope, but the demand for clarity and support remains crucial as they strive to overcome the remaining obstacles.