Reasons an IDT application may be declined

What this article is about
This article explains common reasons why an IDT application may not progress or may be declined.

Who this is for
Doctors in training who are applying for IDT or who have not received an offer.

What you need to know
An IDT application may be declined or may not result in a transfer if the application does not meet the national eligibility criteria, the required supporting evidence is missing or incomplete, the application is submitted outside the published window, there is not enough time remaining in the training programme, there is no suitable funded training post in the receiving region, the requested transfer cannot be supported within the approved transfer dates, or the transfer would not meet programme or training requirements. Being eligible does not guarantee that a transfer will be offered.

What to do

1. Read the outcome information carefully.
2. Check whether the issue relates to eligibility, evidence, timing or vacancy availability.
3. If you remain eligible, consider whether you can apply again in a future window
4. If you believe there has been an error, follow the published query, complaint or appeal route.
5. Seek advice early if your circumstances have changed or become urgent.

If this does not work
If you do not understand why your application did not progress, raise a query through the published IDT support route. If you remain dissatisfied, follow the complaints or appeal process where this is available.

Who to contact
Use the IDT query route on the PGMDE Support Portal.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Explaining local vacancy or placement issues after transfer information has been issued.
• Advising on local next steps where HET is the receiving or outgoing region.

HET cannot help with

• Overturning a national IDT decision.
• Creating a vacancy where no suitable post exists.
• Considering an application that does not meet national criteria.
• Providing individual legal, employment or immigration advice.

Related articles

• Evidence and supporting documentation needed for an IDT application
• Understanding IDT offers and vacancies
• How to raise a complaint or appeal about an IDT decision 

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026