Top 10 Countries Hiring Doctors in 2025 (And Why Canada Tops the List)

As the demand for skilled doctors all over the world continues to rise, 2025 is shaping up to be a significant year for medical professionals considering taking their expertise abroad. Whether you’re looking for better work-life balance, higher pay, or a fresh start in a new healthcare system, now is the time to explore your options.

Here are the top 10 countries hiring doctors in 2025, starting with one of Advantage Medical Staffing’s most popular destinations: Canada.

1. Canada 

Canada is one of our most popular destinations for a reason. It faces a growing shortage of doctors, especially when it comes to GPs and rural healthcare. 

With its strong public health system, welcoming immigration policies, and excellent quality of life, it’s no surprise Canada is the top choice for doctors in the UK and elsewhere looking to work overseas.

Roles that are particularly in demand include:

• General Practitioners (GPs)
• Emergency Medicine
• Anaesthetists
• Psychiatrists
• Internal Medicine

Doctors can expect competitive salaries, support with relocation and a clear pathway to permanent residency. That’s particularly true when you choose to apply with a leading, doctor-led agency like Advantage Medical Staffing. 

Provinces like British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Ontario are actively recruiting international medical graduates (IMGs), and Advantage Medical Staffing works closely with trusted healthcare partners across Canada. Our latest roles include those in a wide range of locations in Canada, including Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and more.

2. Australia

Australia remains a firm favourite for doctors trained in the UK and elsewhere. The demand is particularly high in rural and regional areas, with incentives offered for longer placements. 

It’s highly convenient since English is spoken. It offers familiar clinical standards with a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Key benefits of working as a doctor in Australia include:

• High salaries
• Flexible contracts
• Supportive transition programmes

3. New Zealand

Seeking a slower pace of life and scenic landscapes? New Zealand is ideal. It offers a well-organised health system, a shortage list that includes multiple medical specialities, and straightforward licensing for UK doctors.

Doctors trained in the UK are particularly well regarded here, so often fast-tracked.

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE continues to build world-class healthcare facilities, with an emphasis on attracting Western-trained professionals. Doctors can enjoy tax-free income, modern facilities, and a vibrant expat lifestyle, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Particularly in demand are consultants, GPs with family medicine experience, and dentists.

5. Ireland

Are you a UK doctor who wants to work abroad ,without moving too far? Ireland shares many similarities with the NHS and continues to recruit across a wide range of roles.

Why doctors choose Ireland:

• Simple transition for GMC-registered doctors
• Close proximity to the UK
• High standard of care

6. Sweden

Sweden’s ageing population and difficulties recruiting in rural locations is creating a consistent demand for medical professionals. The government offers language training and support for relocating, especially for GPs and specialists.

In this country, the work-life balance is taken seriously, with generous parental leave and flexible working arrangements.

7. Germany

Germany combines strong infrastructure with high demand in both public and private sectors. While proficiency in German is required, many recruitment programmes offer support in achieving certification.

In-demand roles include those for anaesthetists, surgeons, and internal medicine specialists.

8. Singapore

Renowned for its world-leading hospitals and medical innovation, Singapore offers well-paid roles and a high standard of living. It’s a great option for doctors looking to work in an English-speaking, internationally connected environment.

9. Qatar

Qatar has been investing heavily in its healthcare system thanks to the population booming. It offers tax-free salaries, modern medical facilities, and expat-friendly living. Priority is often given to Western-trained consultants and specialists.

10. South Africa

If you’re seeking a challenge and plenty of variety, South Africa offers an experience like no other. While some areas face resource constraints, the country offers excellent teaching hospitals and opportunities to make a tangible difference.

Why Choose Advantage Medical Staffing?

As a doctor-led recruitment agency, we understand exactly what medical professionals need when taking their skills overseas. Our team has placed doctors, dentists and veterinary professionals around the world, with Canada as our leading destination in 2025.

Our recruitment agency offers:

• Honest guidance from those doctors who have made the leap abroad themselves. 
• Exclusive access to exciting vacancies in top locations
• Help with licensing, relocation and paperwork
• Five-star support throughout the process

‍Ready to Make the Move?

Whether you're drawn to the snow-capped peaks of British Columbia or the sunlit beaches of Sydney, your next career move starts here. With global partnerships and medical insight you can trust, Advantage Medical Staffing is your gateway to a brighter future abroad.

‍Explore our latest roles available abroad. Or don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.