Key Highlights
Why Should Indian Doctors Migrate Abroad in 2024?
- Higher salaries and career prospects: Developed countries offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement not always available in India.
- Improved work-life balance: Some healthcare systems abroad provide a better work-life balance for doctors compared to India.
- Global exposure and training: International residencies and programs can offer unique experiences not found in India.
- Demand for skilled doctors: Countries with doctor shortages create a strong job market for qualified Indian doctors.
- Advanced facilities and resources: Doctors abroad may have access to cutting-edge technology and equipment unavailable in some Indian hospitals.
- Streamlined bureaucracy and regulations: Some doctors find navigating the healthcare system abroad to be less complex than in India.
- Improved quality of life: Developed countries often offer a higher standard of living, including better education and infrastructure, which can be attractive to doctors with families.
Exploring the best countries for Indian doctors to migrate to in 2024? In the past few years, demand for officially registered and skilled doctors has increased worldwide. This has created lucrative chances for Indian doctors to advance their careers globally. Indian doctors aim for better careers, financial independence, and a better life. So, they look forward to working in first-world or developed countries. However, still, you could have the feeling whether it is the right place. This guide will explore the best countries for Indian doctors to migrate to. It will look at vacancies, salaries, living quality, and immigration policies.
List of Top 15 Best Countries For Indian Doctors To Migrate in 2024
Below is the latest list of the top 15 best countries for Indian doctors to migrate in 2024. These countries have been ranked based on factors such as job opportunities, salary prospects, quality of life and ease of immigration.
1. United States
2. United Kingdom (UK)
3. Canada
4. Australia
5. Germany
6. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
7. France
8. New Zealand
9. Ireland
10. Singapore
11. Finland
12. Netherlands
13. Denmark
14. Sweden
15. Switzerland
This data is based on the latest trends and predictions for 2024. However, it is important to note that the best country for Indian doctors to migrate to may vary depending on individual preferences and qualifications.
15 Best Countries For Indian Doctors To Migrate in 2024
Healthcare in India has both opportunities and challenges. But, it is riddled with many difficulties. These include infrastructure problems and bureaucratic bottlenecks. Moving to better medical facilities or countries with superior health care can be a stepping stone to career advancement and happiness. Following are the 15 best countries for Indian doctors to migrate to:
1. United States
The US is the country where Indian doctors can have long careers. The US has a better healthcare system. And, there are good career prospects in US healthcare.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $350,000 USD (highest potential)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing USMLE exams, completing residency, and obtaining state licensure.
- Visa Process: Complex and lengthy, requiring sponsorship (EB-2) or lottery system (EB-5).
- Healthcare System: Complex, a mix of private and public insurance, high-tech facilities.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: High salaries, career advancement opportunities, and prestigious healthcare system.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Complex immigration process, high malpractice insurance costs, demanding work culture.
2. United Kingdom (UK)
British NHS is very well recognized, so the UK remains a favourite destination for Indian doctors abroad seeking work.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $120,000 GBP (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing PLAB exams, GMC registration, and completion of approved foundation program.
- Visa Process: Tier 2 visa sponsorship is required by NHS or private employers.
- Healthcare System: The National Health Service (NHS) is publicly funded and provides good quality care.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Cultural familiarity, well-respected healthcare system, established Indian doctor community.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Lower salaries compared to US/Canada, competitive for specialist positions.
3. Canada
The Canadian healthcare system is highly regarded due to its multicultural environment, making it an attractive destination for doctors worldwide, including India, to pursue their careers.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $280,000 CAD (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing Canadian exams (MCCQE), completing residency, and obtaining provincial licensure.
- Visa Process: Streamlined compared to the US Express Entry System with points for skills and experience.
- Healthcare System: Single-payer system with universal coverage and good work-life balance.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Welcoming environment, streamlined immigration, good work-life balance.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Lower salaries compared to the US, competitive residency placement.
4. Australia
Australia stands as a beacon for Indian doctors aspiring to international careers. Known for its balanced work-life ethos and exceptional living standards, it offers an alluring proposition for Indian medical professionals seeking a fulfilling global career. With its robust healthcare infrastructure, Australia provides rewarding opportunities that foster both professional growth and personal satisfaction.
According to TerraTern experts, Indian doctors with degrees from recognized medical institutions and relevant field experience can easily secure prestigious positions in Australia. Furthermore, the Australian government has implemented various initiatives to attract skilled medical professionals from abroad, streamlining the path for Indian doctors to realize their dream of working in Australia.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $220,000 AUD (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing AMC exams, completion of residency program, and registration with AHPRA.
- Visa Process: Skill Migration Visa with points for qualifications and experience.
- Healthcare System: Mixed public and private system, Medicare covers basic services.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: High quality of life, good work-life balance, demand for doctors in some specialties.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Competitive immigration process, potential for remote locations.
5. Germany
There is a big need for medical doctors in Germany now. This creates an opportunity for Indian doctors to succeed. Germany's remarkable healthcare system offers an exceptional platform for career advancement, coupled with a high standard of living, making it an attractive choice for Indian medical professionals.
According to TerraTern experts, choosing the right place for professional growth can be challenging, especially when it involves immigration. Currently, the timing has never been better for Indian doctors to advance their medical careers in Germany. The country is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled medical professionals, leading to a growing demand for doctors from around the globe. This scenario presents numerous opportunities for Indian doctors to gain international experience and contribute to Germany's healthcare system.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $180,000 EUR (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Pass the German language proficiency exam (DSH) and get approval from authorities for a medical diploma.
- Visa Process: Skilled Worker Visa with sponsorship from a German employer.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, a mix of public and private insurance, high standards.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Good salaries and benefits, strong healthcare system.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: German language proficiency is mandatory, and potentially long bureaucratic processes.
6. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
One of the most surprising countries on the list of the best countries for Indian doctors to migrate to is the UAE. The healthcare industry dominates the UAE. It does so without taxing income from various sources. This makes the UAE a preferred option for Indians to seek high-paying jobs.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $250,000 USD (tax-free) - one of the highest on this list.
- Licensing Requirements: Pass the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) licensing exams and get approved by authorities for a medical degree.
- Visa Process: Employment visa sponsored by a UAE healthcare facility.
- Healthcare System: This is a mix of public and private healthcare, with a focus on high-tech facilities and advanced treatments.
- Pros: High tax-free salaries, good standard of living, and the potential for career growth in the private sector.
- Cons: Demanding work culture and long working hours can be common, and there is potential for isolation due to the expat community.
7. France
France has a well-respected healthcare system, good quality of life, and a strong emphasis on doctor well-being.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $160,000 EUR (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing equivalency exams for medical diploma, French language proficiency (DELF/DALF).
- Visa Process: Work visa sponsorship is required by a French employer.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, strong focus on preventative care.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Good quality of life, well-respected healthcare system, emphasis on doctor well-being.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Competitive job market, complex licensing process, language requirement.
8. New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its picture-postcard views and good healthcare, so it is one of the best countries to which Indian doctors can migrate. The reputed healthcare system does not only highlight the country's preferred choice for Indian doctors planning a new life.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $200,000 NZD (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing SMC assessments, completing the approved internship program, and registering with SMC.
- Visa Process: Skilled Migrant Category visa with points for qualifications and experience.
- Healthcare System: Publicly funded system with good access to specialists.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Welcoming environment, easier visa process for doctors, good work-life balance.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Lower salaries compared to the US/Canada and smaller healthcare system.
9. Ireland
Ireland's warm atmosphere and developing medical strength sell it as a perfect place where Indian doctors would want to lay down their career base abroad.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $150,000 EUR (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing Medical Council exams, completion of internship program, and registration with Medical Council.
- Visa Process: Work permit sponsorship is required by an Irish employer.
- Healthcare System: Publicly funded system with good access to specialists.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Welcoming environment, streamlined immigration process, good quality of life.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Lower salaries compared to the US/Canada and a competitive job market.
10. Singapore
Singapore is a world-class medical arena with experienced infrastructure and enriched lifestyles for Indian doctors that result in a challenging and rewarding professional setting and good salaries.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $200,000 SGD (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Passing Singapore Medical Council exams, completing the residency program, and registering with SMC.
- Visa Process: Employment Pass sponsorship is required by a Singaporean employer.
- Healthcare System: Mixed public and private system, efficient and high-tech.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: High salaries, career growth opportunities, good standard of living.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: High cost of living, demanding work culture, competitive job market.
11. Finland
Finland offers a good work-life balance, a strong healthcare system, and generally good working conditions for doctors.
- Average Salary for Doctors: $140,000 EUR (converted to USD)
- Licensing Requirements: Approval of medical diploma by Finnish authorities, Finnish language proficiency exam.
- Visa Process: A permit is required, and sponsorship from a Finnish employer might be needed.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, strong emphasis on public health.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Good work-life balance, strong healthcare system, generally good working conditions.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Lower salaries compared to some others, potentially cold climate.
12. Netherlands
The Netherlands provides good work-life balance, competitive salaries, and a focus on innovation in healthcare. The economy is highly developed and diverse. Doctors in the Netherlands earn considerable income and have access to various research and development opportunities.
- Average Salary for Doctors: Not readily available, but competitive.
- Licensing Requirements: Registration with the Dutch Medical Register (BIG), potential for additional exams.
- Visa Process: Highly Skilled Migrant Permit with sponsorship or employment contract.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, a mix of public and private insurance.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Good work-life balance, competitive salaries, focus on innovation in healthcare.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: A competitive job market and Dutch language proficiency might be beneficial.
13. Denmark
Denmark has a strong healthcare system, good work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development.
- Average Salary for Doctors: Not readily available, but competitive.
- Licensing Requirements: Approval of medical diploma by Danish authorities, Danish language proficiency test.
- Visa Process: A work permit with sponsorship is required by a Danish employer.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, strong emphasis on preventative care.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Strong healthcare system, good work-life balance, opportunities for professional development.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Competitive job market, potentially high cost of living, Danish language proficiency helpful.
Also Read: Top Medical Universities in Germany in 2024: Latest Guide
14. Sweden
Sweden offers a good work-life balance, a strong focus on healthcare research, and work-life balance opportunities. Doctors in Sweden have a high level of autonomy and are highly respected in society. The country also has a universal healthcare system providing free medical care for all residents.
- Average Salary for Doctors: Not readily available, but competitive.
- Licensing Requirements: Approval of medical diploma by Swedish authorities, Swedish language proficiency test.
- Visa Process: A work permit with sponsorship is required by a Swedish employer.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, focus on research and innovation.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Good work-life balance, strong focus on research in healthcare, opportunities for work-life balance.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Competitive job market, potentially high cost of living, Swedish language proficiency helpful.
15. Switzerland
Switzerland offers high salaries, a renowned healthcare system, and an excellent standard of living. The opportunities for doctors who are planning to live and work in Switzerland to be an exciting and rewarding experience for medical professionals are extensive compared to other countries. Living and working in Switzerland can be an exciting and rewarding experience for medical professionals.
- Average Doctor Salary: Very high (potentially exceeding $400,000 USD).
- Licensing Requirements: Pass Swiss medical exams and get approved by authorities for a medical diploma.
- Visa Process: A work permit with sponsorship is required by a Swiss employer.
- Healthcare System: Universal coverage, very high standards of care.
- Pros for Indian Doctors: Highest salaries on this list, well-respected healthcare system, high standard of living.
- Cons for Indian Doctors: Extremely high cost of living, competitive job market, complex licensing process.
Top In-Demand Indian Doctor Specializations Worldwide
| Specialization | Factors Favoring Indian Doctors |
| Cardiology | Strong foundation in internal medicine, high salaries globally, and growing demand due to ageing populations. |
| Internal Medicine | Broad skillset transferable across healthcare systems, high demand for primary care physicians, good salary potential. |
| Orthopedics | Growing demand due to ageing populations and joint issues, potential for high salaries, strong surgical and procedural skills valued. |
| Neurology | The prevalence of neurological conditions is increasing, and there is good salary potential. |
| Anesthesiology | Critical role in surgeries, high demand, specialized skillset valued internationally. |
| Gastroenterology | With the rising global prevalence of digestive diseases, a broad range of treatment options is available. |
| Urology | Increasing demand due to the ageing population and prostate cancer rates, good salary potential. |
Conclusion
Through this blog, we gained more knowledge about the best countries for Indian doctors to migrate to and that the migration for Indian doctors culminated not only with the physical transition but also a profound journey infused by determination and tenacity, as well as the aspiration to attain perfection. As it happens, interspersing their pool of skill, humanity, and culture throughout the diverse healthcare ecosystems of many countries, they add to the quality of healthcare provisions everywhere. An ultimate ideal locality for Indian doctors to migrate to may not be a single point on the map but a site where they grew both as professionals and as individuals.
If you are a doctor looking to settle in any of the above mentioned countries, you can consult an expert like TerraTern to help you through the process and make it smoother.
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