The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Council and the Veterinary Nursing Council have decided that there will be no increase in registration and retention fees for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses for 2012.

Last year, the Councils decided that a lower than inflation increase should apply to fees for 2011 to help mitigate the impact of the difficult economic climate on veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses. Members who are over 70 and who cease practising do not have to pay fees if they wish to remain on the Register.

Bradley Viner, RCVS Treasurer said: "We know times are tough financially for many people and hope that freezing fees will help a little. Professional regulation can be costly, but we try to keep fees as low as possible." 

The RCVS financial policy remains that fee increases should be small and incremental in order to avoid a need for periodic sharp fee hikes resulting from inflationary pressures. 

Fees for 2012 will be as follows: 

 

2012 fees (£)

Veterinary surgeons

 

UK-practising retention fee

299

Overseas-practising retention fee

150

Non-practising retention fee

49

Non-practising retention fee (over 70 years old)

0

Registration fee

299

Temporary registration fee

299

Restoration fee

299

Restoration fee following voluntary removal

75

Veterinary nurses

 

Retention fee

61

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.