Can you practice medicine in the UK with a US degree?
Asked by: Chanel Beatty | Last update: November 25, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (48 votes)
Doctors qualifying from outside the UK may be eligible to apply directly for full registration if they hold an acceptable primary medical qualification and have completed a period of postgraduate clinical experience (internship). A doctor will need to provide documentary evidence to support their application.
Can a US doctor practice in the UK?
For US-physicians that don't have a USMLE or postgraduate qualification that is accepted you'll need to take the PLAB to have your registration and license to practice recognised in the UK.
Can I practice medicine in Europe with a US degree?
Practicing Medicine in Other EU Countries
All credentials are interchangeable though you might be required to take a language exam.
How to become a doctor in the UK from the US?
Becoming a doctor in the UK involves several key steps. First, you'll spend 5-6 years in medical school, followed by a two-year foundation program. Then, you'll choose a specialty and undergo further training, which can last 3-8 years, depending on the field.
Which countries accept US medical degrees?
- Australia. ...
- Ireland. ...
- Israel. ...
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) ...
- Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) ...
- New Zealand. ...
- Qatar. ...
- United Kingdom.
US Residency Off the Table for UK Medical Graduates?
What is the best country for American doctors to move to?
Some of the best countries for American doctors to work in 2024 include Canada, Australia, and Germany. These countries have high demand for physicians, competitive salaries, and welcoming immigration policies for foreign medical professionals.
Can I work in the UK with USMLE?
Many physicians trained in the USA can now register to work in the UK using their USMLE licensure. Whilst it is not a qualification, the GMC now accepts the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) as evidence of the appropriate skills and knowledge required to be granted registration with a license to practice.
Are doctors paid more in US or UK?
Good news—consumer prices are lower, and living is slightly more affordable than in the States. But at a price: UK MDs get paid less than American MDs. A single person's monthly living costs in the UK are around £2,500. Most physicians make more than that monthly, depending on experience.
How long is med school in the UK?
Before you become a UK doctor you first have to obtain a degree in medicine from a medical school whose medical degrees we accept. Courses normally last five years, or four years for a graduate entry programme.
Is it easier to become a doctor in UK or USA?
Is medical school tougher in the US than in the UK? Ans: Medical schools, in general, are longer in the UK but also less intense comparatively. In the UK, a minimum of 5 years is required to complete the residency, whereas it can be done in 3 years in the US.
Is it better to study medicine in Europe or USA?
Europe is home to some of the most excellent medical schools and research facilities in the world. A degree in Europe takes less time and can be up to 6 times cheaper than studying medicine in the US. From what our research shows, it's essential to broaden your horizons when looking for a medical school.
Can I use my US degree in Europe?
Are American degrees recognized in Europe? Yes, American degrees are recognized in Europe. Many European countries have established frameworks to assess and recognize foreign degrees, including those from the United States.
What is the salary of a doctor in the UK?
How much do NHS doctors get paid in the UK? NHS doctors in the UK are paid a basic salary of £32,398 to £126,281. The salary depends on their years of experience, type of contract, pay scale and where they are located. It takes at least 28 years of experience to qualify for the top end of the pay scale.
Which country pays doctors the highest?
1. Luxembourg. Topping our list is Luxembourg, a small yet prosperous country known for its thriving economy and high standard of living. Doctors in Luxembourg enjoy some of the highest salaries in the world, along with excellent working conditions and ample opportunities for professional growth.
How to migrate to the UK as a doctor?
- be a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional or adult social care professional.
- work in an eligible health or social care job.
- work for a UK employer that's been approved by the Home Office.
- have a 'certificate of sponsorship' from your employer with information about the role you've been offered in the UK.
Is 40 too old to become a doctor?
Is it too late to become a doctor? While there is nothing to stop you from starting medical school at 30, 40, or 50 years of age, there are some important factors to consider: Length of educational process – Medical school is typically four years, but residency is another three to eight years.
Is med school expensive in UK?
How Much Does It Cost to Study Medicine in the UK? UK students pay up to £9,250 (€11,070) per year in tuition fees for medical universities. Living costs may vary by another £1000 to £2000 per month (€1200 - €2400), depending on the city and type of accommodation.
Do doctors in UK live comfortably?
To summarize. There is more to life than money and to think that in a country like the UK, doctors don't make a liveable wage, would be a mistake. Yes, there are certainly other countries where doctors are paid more, but often the cost of living, working hours, and standard of life are not taken into account. Good luck ...
What country has the best doctors?
- United States. The United States is often considered a global leader in the medical field. ...
- India. ...
- United Kingdom. ...
- Germany. ...
- France. ...
- Switzerland. ...
- Canada. ...
- Italy.
Which state in USA pays highest to doctors?
When it comes to the best-paying states and cities for doctors in the US, you may be surprised to find out that Wisconsin, Indiana, and Georgia are at the top of the list. Of course, a physician's specialty can also have a major impact on which state may be the highest paying for their specific role.
Can you use a US medical degree in the UK?
Doctors qualifying from outside the UK may be eligible to apply directly for full registration if they hold an acceptable primary medical qualification and have completed a period of postgraduate clinical experience (internship). A doctor will need to provide documentary evidence to support their application.
Can you work in the UK with an American degree?
Can an American get a job in the UK? Americans who qualify for a visa can get a job in the United Kingdom. The UK offers work visas for healthcare workers like nurses, skilled workers, and workers with a recently-earned university degree in a high-demand field.
Which country has the highest USMLE passing rate?
98% of MD degree graduates from US and Canadian schools passed on the first try in 2023, which was the same rate as in 2022. 96% of those with a DO degree passed on the first try as compared to 97% in 2022. The final step in the USMLE exam is Step 3: Administrations.