Occupation guide
Migrate as a Doctor
Medical doctors and physicians are among the most critically needed professionals worldwide.
Demand for doctors
Countries with aging populations and healthcare system strain actively recruit international medical graduates, often offering expedited visa processing, relocation support, and loan forgiveness programs.
The WHO estimates a global shortage of 10 million health workers by 2030, with doctors at the core of this deficit. The UK, Australia, Canada, and Germany all maintain dedicated immigration pathways for qualified physicians.
Best countries for doctors
Real visa routes, real demand, local pay.
United Kingdom
- Visa route
- Health & Care Worker Visa
- Salary range
- £32,000 to £120,000
- Why go
- The NHS has over 10,000 doctor vacancies. International medical graduates make up roughly a third of the NHS workforce. The Health & Care Worker visa has reduced fees, faster processing, and no Immigration Health Surcharge. You must pass the PLAB test (or hold a recognised postgraduate qualification) and register with the GMC.
Australia
- Visa route
- Subclass 482 / 186 (Employer Sponsored)
- Salary range
- AUD $90,000 to $250,000
- Why go
- Severe doctor shortages in rural and regional areas with strong financial incentives. You must pass the AMC (Australian Medical Council) examinations and complete a supervised internship period. Employer sponsorship is common, and doctors are on the priority occupation list.
Canada
- Visa route
- Express Entry / Provincial Nominee
- Salary range
- CAD $120,000 to $350,000
- Why go
- Canada faces physician shortages across nearly every province. International medical graduates must pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and secure a residency match. Some provinces offer dedicated IMG assessment programs and return-of-service agreements for underserved areas.
Germany
- Visa route
- EU Blue Card / Skilled Immigration Act
- Salary range
- €55,000 to €120,000
- Why go
- Germany has a critical doctor shortage, especially in rural areas and eastern states. Non-EU doctors must have their degree recognized (Approbation), pass a medical knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung), and demonstrate B2-level German. Salaries follow transparent collective agreements with regular increases.
What you need
- Medical degree (MBBS, MD, or equivalent from a recognized institution)
- Valid medical license/registration in home country
- English proficiency (IELTS 7.0 to 7.5 overall, with 7.0 in each band for most countries)
- Country-specific licensing exams (PLAB, AMC, MCCQE, USMLE, Kenntnisprüfung)
- Clinical experience (1 to 3 years postgraduate preferred)
Exams and assessments
- PLAB 1 & 2 + GMC registration (United Kingdom)
- AMC MCQ + Clinical Exam + supervised practice (Australia)
- MCCQE Part I & II + NAC OSCE (Canada)
- USMLE Steps 1 to 3 + residency match (United States pathway)
- Kenntnisprüfung + Approbation (Germany)
FAQs
How long does it take to practise medicine in another country?
The timeline varies significantly. In the UK, you can register and start working within 6 to 12 months if you pass PLAB quickly. Australia requires 12 to 24 months for AMC exams and supervised practice. Canada can take 2 to 4 years due to the residency matching process. Germany takes 6 to 18 months including language certification and the Approbation process.
Will I need to redo my residency or specialty training?
It depends. The UK and Australia often recognise overseas specialty qualifications, particularly from comparable healthcare systems, and may grant partial or full exemption from further training. Canada and the US generally require international medical graduates to complete a local residency, though some provinces and states offer assessment-based pathways for experienced specialists.
Can I work while my full registration is being processed?
Yes, in many countries. The UK offers supervised provisional registration. Australia has limited and supervised registration categories. Canada has some provincial assessment programs that include supervised clinical placements with pay. Germany allows a Berufserlaubnis (temporary work permit) while the full Approbation is being processed.
What is the earning potential compared to my home country?
Salaries for doctors abroad are generally very competitive. UK junior doctors earn £32K to £55K rising to £90K to £120K+ as consultants. Australian doctors earn AUD $90K to $250K+ depending on specialty and location (rural bonuses are significant). Canadian physicians earn CAD $120K to $350K+, often as independent contractors. In Germany, hospital doctors earn €55K to €120K following collective pay scales.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change often. Always confirm the current requirements on the official government website for your destination. How we research & source our guides.
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