GP Jobs in Canada vs. UK: Comparing Pay, Work-Life Balance and Career Growth

For many British doctors feeling the strain of the NHS, the idea of relocating overseas can feel highly enticing.  More and more GPs are considering Canada as a destination. But what’s the reality on the other side of the Atlantic? Is it really better? And what are the trade-offs?

In this article, we break down the key differences between working as a GP in Canada and the UK, focusing on three critical areas: pay, work-life balance, and career growth. If you're a trained doctor in the UK considering a move abroad, this guide will help you weigh your options.

‍Pay: There’s A Clear Winner

One of the most common questions doctors in Britain ask when researching GP jobs in Canada is: Will I earn more? The short answer? Yes, often significantly more.

‍Canada

In Canada, GPs typically work as independent contractors rather than salaried employees. Most are paid on a fee-for-service basis, so they bill the provincial health authority for each patient visit or procedure. This model allows earnings to scale with workload and patient volume.

Average GP earnings in Canada range from CAD $375,000 to $850,000+ per year (roughly

£200,000 to £450,000+).

GPs in rural or underserved areas may receive additional incentives, including signing bonuses, housing support, or relocation packages.

You’ll pay into private medical indemnity, but this is often offset by your higher earnings.

‍UK

In the UK, GP pay is generally lower and more rigid. Salaried GPs earn between £65,000 and £100,000 depending on experience and location. Partner GPs may earn more, but this comes with business management responsibilities and financial risk.

NHS pensions are a long-term benefit, but recent changes and taxation issues have made them less attractive.

A heavy workload and appointment quotas can make the salary feel increasingly disproportionate.

‍Verdict: GP jobs in Canada typically offer much better salaries, especially for motivated, full-time GPs.

‍Work-Life Balance: Different Pressures, Different Freedoms

It's no secret that many NHS doctors feel burnt out. So, how do GP roles in Canada compare in terms of hours, autonomy, and flexibility?

‍Canada

GPs in Canada often have more control over their schedules. As self-employed practitioners, they can choose:

• How many days they work
• How many patients they see per day
• Whether to specialise in certain areas or remain generalists

While areas in the countryside might demand longer hours due to staff shortages, clinics in cities and towns often offer balanced, manageable workloads. Many GPs report a healthier lifestyle and more time for family, travel or hobbies.

Importantly, there is generally less bureaucracy and fewer non-clinical demands. Canadian clinics do have paperwork, but nothing quite like the endless admin loops seen in UK practices.

‍UK

In contrast, GPs in the NHS regularly cite high patient quotas, rising admin, and unrealistic expectations. It’s not uncommon for GPs to work well beyond scheduled hours just to stay on top of documentation.

Appointments are typically limited to 10 minutes, placing immense pressure on both doctor and patient.

While part-time options exist, they can negatively impact your earnings and pension.

Not surprisingly, burnout and early retirement are increasingly common concerns.

‍Verdict: Canada wins on work-life balance, offering more autonomy and less red tape, though this can vary by location.

‍Career Growth and Professional Development

What does the long-term picture look like? If you're thinking beyond the next few years, it’s worth examining how GP jobs in Canada compare in terms of professional development and career progression.

‍Canada

Canada offers several paths for GPs who want to grow their careers:

• Subspecialisation is easier, particularly in areas like dermatology, women’s health, or urgent care.
• Teaching and academic roles are available through partnerships with universities or teaching hospitals.
• Some provinces actively support practice ownership or group practice development.

GPs in Canada also have more freedom to innovate, whether that’s setting up a boutique clinic or using new tech platforms. The private-public hybrid system makes entrepreneurial thinking more effective within the healthcare space.

‍UK

The British system can feel more constrictive, with limited room for non-clinical roles unless you pursue management, education, or CCG leadership. Becoming a partner is one route to increased responsibility, but it comes with increased workload and financial pressures.

Training for specialist interests is possible but often poorly funded and squeezed between clinical responsibilities.

‍Verdict: Canada wins again! It offers more diverse career paths and greater professional flexibility.

‍The Catch: Licensing and Relocation

While working as a doctor in Canada may seem ideal, it’s important to acknowledge the barriers to entry:

• Licensing: Doctors trained in the UK must pass through the provincial registration process, which includes credential verification, exams, and possible supervision periods.
• Relocation: Moving your life, and possibly your family, to a new country isn’t a light decision. You’ll need to factor in housing, schools, spousal employment, and community support.

This is where Advantage Medical Staffing plays a crucial role. As a doctor-led recruitment agency, we guide you through every step of your journey, from highlighting your experience, to applying for the right GP jobs in Canada, to supporting your relocation and settlement.

‍Ready to explore GP jobs in Canada?

‍Reach out to Advantage Medical Staffing and take the first step towards your international career move. Or check out our latest roles today.