Germany accounts for 30% of the 1.82 million doctors in Europe.
About 60,000 doctors working in Germany were born outside, which is about 12% of the medical workforce.
By 2026, an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 doctors' practices are expected to close, largely due to retirements.
Germany is facing a growing doctor shortage, with just 4.53 per 1,000 people. To bridge the gap, the country is hiring foreign medical professionals, with an average salary of €68,000 (INR 62.8 L) per year, depending on specialization and experience. For international doctors, understanding the salary structure, taxes, and living costs is essential when planning to work in Germany.
This blog will provide a clear overview of doctor salary in Germany, focusing on key factors like specialization, experience, and location. It will help you make informed decisions about your career path, location, and sector, whether public or private.
Average Doctor Salary in Germany: Overview and Key Statistics
Germany is an attractive destination for doctors due to high demand, strong healthcare infrastructure, and benefits for international doctors.
The average salary of a doctor in Germany is €68,000, but it varies by specialization (e.g., neurologists) and location (e.g., Munich). With 557,528 doctors practicing in the country, Germany has a doctor-to-patient ratio of 4.53, higher than the European average of 37.6.
Medical education in Germany takes 6 years and 3 months, followed by the Approbation, which is a full medical license required for doctors to practice in Germany permanently.
Here’s an overview of the medical profession in Germany:
Criteria
Details
Total Doctors in Germany
557,528
Doctor-to-Patient Ratio
4.53
Education Duration
6 years and 3 months (including practical year)
Popular Specialization
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine
Dermatology
Surgery
Anesthesiology
Cardiology
Psychiatry
Radiology
Orthopedics
Average Salary of Doctors
€68,000 (INR 62.8L)
Entry Requirements
University entrance qualification (equivalent to Abitur).
German language proficiency (C1 level).
Entrance exams (TMS) may be required
Residency & Training Duration
5-6 years for specialization (depends on the field)
Doctor salaries worldwide, including in Germany, vary by specialization. A cardiologist, for example, earns differently than a dentist or a general practitioner.. Let’s explore how salaries differ across these specialties.
Doctor Salaries in Germany Based on Specializations
Specialization plays a major role in doctor salaries, driven by demand and expertise. For instance, an anesthesiologist earns around €226,617, while a general surgeon typically earns €65,000. Specialties with high demand, heavy patient load, or rare skills earn more due to longer training, complex procedures, and critical patient outcomes.
Here are the doctor salary in Germany based on specialization:
Specialization
Average Annual Salary
Average Annual Salary (INR)
Neurologist
€68,000
INR 62.8L
Cardiologist
€120,000
INR 1.1CR
Oncologist
€196,270
INR 1.8CR
Anesthesiologist
€226,617
INR 2CR
Radiologist
€239,707
INR 2.2CR
General Surgeon
€65,000
INR 60.1L
Psychiatrist
$200,000
INR 1.7CR
Dermatologist
€66,000
INR 61L
Orthopedist
€105,000
INR 97.1L
Endocrinologist
€200,341
INR 1.8CR
Ophthalmologist
€187,740
INR 1.7CR
Dentist
€55,301
INR 51.1L
Gynecologist
€205,783
INR 1.9CR
Gerontologist
€163,121
INR 1.5CR
Pathologist
€195,772
INR 1.8CR
Source: Glassdoor, Payscale, ERI, Salaryexpert
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Specialization is one key factor that has a direct influence on doctors' salaries in Germany. Next, let's examine how factors like working in private practice can shape earnings.
Salary Comparison Across Healthcare Settings
Salary differences across healthcare settings depend on workload, funding, and specialization requirements. Doctors in private hospitals or specialized clinics earn more due to higher patient fees and advanced treatments, while those in public hospitals may receive additional bonuses and benefits but lower base salaries.
The minimal salary difference between university-employed doctors (€60,000) and hospital-employed doctors (€66,000) is due to standardized pay scales set by public healthcare agreements. Both settings follow similar tariff structures, ensuring fair compensation.
Here’s how doctor salary in German varies based on healthcare settings:
Healthcare Setting
Average Annual Salary
Average Annual Salary (INR)
Hospital-employed
€66,000
INR 61L
University
€60,000
INR 55.4L
Source: Glassdoor
Note:
The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
The average salary for doctors in government and private practice varies and is not publicly available.
Apart from workplace settings, salaries also fluctuate based on location due to demand, cost of living, and local healthcare policies. Let's examine how salaries differ across regions.
Average Doctor Salary in Germany: By States
Different German states have varying settings, with urban areas like Hamburg and rural regions like Brandenburg.
Factors such as doctor demand, patient availability, competition, rural vs urban competition, cost of living, and state funding influence salaries. For example, a doctor in Bavaria (urban) earns around €80,000, while in Saxony (rural), the salary is approximately €60,000.
Here’s how the doctor salary varies based on location:
State
Average Annual Salary
Bavaria
€80,000 (INR 73.9L)
Saxony
€60,000 (INR 55.4L)
North Rhine-Westphalia
€63,000 (INR 58.2L)
Baden-Württemberg
€53,000 (INR 48.9L)
Hesse
€100,000 (INR 92.3L)
Hamburg
€36,000 (INR 33.2L)
Bremen
€95,000 (INR 87.7L)
Rhineland-Palatinate
€143,171 (INR 1.3CR)
Lower Saxony
€75,000 (INR 69.2L)
Schleswig-Holstein
€142,515 (INR 1.3CR)
Source: Glassdoor, ERI
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Salaries also depend on factors like specialization and experience. For instance, a senior surgeon in a top private hospital in Hamburg may earn significantly more than a general practitioner in Saxony
Here’s a graphical representation of the average doctor salary in Germany based on states:
Note: The amounts are given in thousands.
After reviewing how location impacts doctor salaries in Germany, let’s explore how experience level influences salary.
Average Doctor Salary in Germany: By Experience Level
Experience plays a key role in a doctor’s ability to excel in their job, attract more patients, and gain opportunities in specialized fields. Experienced doctors are highly preferred, especially for super-specializations like oncology or cardiology.
For example, a general entry-level doctor earns around €55,000, while an experienced doctor earns an average of €93,000. For hospital-employed doctors, entry-level positions offer salaries of around €44,500, while senior doctors can earn up to €75,000.
Here’s how the salary of a doctor varies based on experience level:
Experience Level
Average Salary
Hospital Employed
Entry-level
€55,000 (INR 50.7L)
€44500 (INR 41.1L)
Mid-level
€70,000 (INR 64.6L)
€64500 (INR 59.5L)
Senior-level
€93,000 (INR 85.9L)
€75,000 (INR 69.2L)
Source: Glassdoor
Note:
The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Private practice salaries vary due to factors like location, specialization, and patient volume, making them difficult to estimate.
Now that you’ve covered salaries based on experience, let’s compare doctor earnings across different countries to gain a broader perspective.
German Doctor Salary vs Other Countries: A Global Pay Comparison
Doctor salaries vary across countries, influenced by factors like inflation, cost of education, job demand, and insurance policies. For example, higher education debt in the US drives up salaries, while government-funded healthcare in Germany keeps wages more regulated.
In the US, the average salary is $217,978, while in the UK, it’s £71,015. Doctors in Canada earn an average of $220,602, in Australia $120,000, and in India, it’s around INR 7.2L. For example, the cost of living in the US is 83% more than in India, impacting salaries.
Here’s a breakdown of average annual salaries for doctors in different countries:
Country
Average Annual Salary
Average Annual Salary (INR)
United States
$217,978
INR 1.8CR
United Kingdom
£71,015
INR 78.3L
Canada
$220,602
INR 1.8CR
Australia
$120,000
INR 1 CR
India
INR 7.2L
–
Source: Indeed, Glassdoor
Note:
The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Earnings in countries vary depending on government vs. private practice, location, and specialization.
Now that you have insights into doctor salaries across different countries, let’s explore what the salary trends might look like in the future.
Average Doctor Salary in Germany: Trends and Future Projections
Understanding future salary trends, like increase or decrease, helps you make informed decisions about your job location and specialization. By considering factors like AI technology, demographic shifts, and the rise of telemedicine, you can strategically position yourself for high-demand fields.
Aging populations will drive higher salaries in geriatrics, while advancements in medical tech could shift earnings across specialties.
Here’s a look at the future trends in doctor salaries in Germany:
Impact of Technologies like AI
AI and machine learning are reshaping the healthcare industry in Germany. For example, AI tools like IBM Watson can reduce the time spent on paperwork, potentially allowing doctors to handle more patients in less time.
While this won't directly increase salary, it can create opportunities for roles involving AI integration, which could offer higher earnings.
Surge in Demand for Doctors in Telemedicine
With the growing importance of telemedicine, especially post-pandemic, doctors who can offer remote care are likely to see new streams of income. In Germany, doctors specializing in this field could see an additional 6.7% increase in their salaries due to the expanding healthcare service model.
Government Reforms
Germany’s healthcare system is undergoing reforms to address doctor shortages and improve working conditions, which could lead to salary increases for doctors in public hospitals. Doctors could see a €25 - €300 (INR 2.3K - 27.7K) increase in their salaries (allowances) as the government incentivizes healthcare workers.
International Recognition
Doctors with international certifications, such as Board Certification from the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), could improve job prospects. Specializations like plastic surgery (€96K/INR 88.7L) and cardiology (€120K/INR 1.1CR) can command premium salaries, especially for doctors with international credentials.
Impact of Aging Population
With an aging population, doctors specializing in geriatrics, palliative care, and chronic disease management can expect long-term salary growth. As healthcare services adapt to the needs of the elderly, specializations like Gerontology (€163,121/INR 1.5CR) are gaining demand.
While future trends provide insight into changing conditions, it's crucial to understand the factors that directly influence salary in order to make an informed choice. Let’s explore these factors.
Average Doctor Salary in Germany: Factors Influencing Salary
Germany’s high salaries, strong work-life balance, and career growth opportunities make it an attractive destination for doctors. Factors such as job location (urban like Berlin), in-demand specializations, like oncology (€196,270/INR 1.8CR), and experience level (entry level or experienced) affect salary.
The work setting, whether government, private, or hospital, determines how much you earn. It’s important to consider all options before making a career decision.
Here are the key factors influencing doctor salaries in Germany:
Specialization
Specialists are in high demand in Germany, with fields like radiology, cardiology, and orthopedics seeing particularly high salaries. For example, a radiologist can earn €239,707 (INR 2.2CR) annually, compared to a dentist’s €55,301 (INR 51.1L).
If you’re aiming for the highest salary potential, choosing an in-demand specialty like radiology or cardiology can be a strategic move.
Geographic Location
Salaries for doctors can vary greatly between urban and rural areas. For example, doctors in Bavaria get €80,000 (INR 73.9L) while a doctor in Baden-Württemberg receives €53,000 (INR 48.9L).
While urban centers provide higher base salaries, doctors in rural areas often receive incentives of up to €10,000 (INR 9.2L) per year to encourage relocation.
Experience
Experience plays a critical role in salary growth. For instance, a doctor with 8 - 12 years of experience can expect to earn €40,000 (INR 36.9L) more annually than a newly graduated doctor.
Senior roles like consultants or chief physicians (10+ years) can command salaries of up to €200,000 (INR 1.8CR) or more, depending on their specialty and hospital.
Hospital Reputation
Working at renowned hospitals like Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin receives €66,600 (INR 61.5L) due to the institutional prestige and the quality care. However, a doctor in Helios Kliniken gets €60,500 (INR 55.9L).
Doctors in prestigious institutions are offered more research opportunities and better career progression, contributing to both financial and professional growth.
Migrating to Germany requires careful planning, including meeting academic requirements and securing an employment visa. Let’s explore how upGrad can support you throughout this process.
How Can upGrad Help You Prepare for Doctor Jobs in Germany?
upGrad offers counseling support for aspiring doctors aiming to work in Germany. From Global Medical Education Pathways to Career Advancement Programs, upGrad helps you meet medical qualifications and develop essential skills. You can also get Visa and Immigration Support, ensuring a smooth transition into Germany's healthcare system.
Here’s how upGrad can help you:
Global Medical Education Pathways upGrad provides access to world-class educational resources, offering guidance on the medical qualifications and certifications required to practice medicine in Germany.
Career Advancement Programs upGrad’s Career Advancement Programs focus on specialized training, soft skills development, and practical preparation for doctor roles. This can help you enhance your job readiness and career prospects.
Visa and Immigration Support upGrad offers advisory support with visa and immigration processes. From work permits to residency requirements, upGrad helps ensure a smooth transition for medical professionals seeking to work in Germany.
Networking and Job Placement Support upGrad connects aspiring doctors with industry professionals and medical institutions through its strong network. This includes access to job placement services, ensuring students can find relevant opportunities in Germany’s competitive healthcare market.
Looking for the best way to secure a doctor’s job in Germany?Book a free counseling session with upGrad’s experienced advisors today. Get the right guidance to prepare for entrance exams and plan your career path!
What additional benefits do doctors in Germany receive beyond their salaries?
In Germany, doctors enjoy additional benefits like health insurance, pension plans, and paid vacation (typically around 30 days a year). Doctors employed in the public sector benefit from job security and structured career progression. Germany’s strict labor laws support work-life balance.
Doctors in private practice may receive incentives tied to specific goals. For example, specialists in high-demand areas like cardiology might qualify for additional allowances based on patient load.
How does the growing trend of medical tourism influence doctor salaries in Germany?
Germany's high-quality healthcare system attracts international patients, particularly in fields like orthopedics, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatment. For example, plastic surgeons and fertility specialists can earn 30-40% more by treating international patients, as they charge higher fees for elective surgeries and treatments.
What role does the cost of living in major German cities play in doctor salaries?
Doctors in major cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin earn higher salaries due to the increased cost of living and demand for services. However, this higher salary often offsets the high expenses associated with urban living, such as housing costs, transportation, and general daily expenses.
For instance, a doctor in Munich may earn up to €10,000 (INR 9.2L) more annually compared to a colleague in rural areas, but housing prices in Munich can be nearly 30% higher than in smaller cities.
How do private healthcare insurance and compensation structures in Germany affect doctor earnings?
Doctors in Germany treating patients with private health insurance (PKV) earn more than those treating patients covered by the public health insurance system (GKV). The difference arises from the ability to set fees for private patients, leading to higher earnings.
For example, surgeons in private practice may charge higher consultation fees or service costs (5-6 times more) than doctors in public hospitals, resulting in higher income.
How do international medical certifications and qualifications affect doctor salaries in Germany?
Doctors with international qualifications may initially face lower salaries in Germany due to the need for credential validation by the German Medical Association. They need Approbation (licensing) and Facharzt (specialist certification) before practicing.
For instance, doctors from outside the EU often start with a lower pay scale as they must complete equivalency exams and demonstrate language proficiency (typically C1-level German). This process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year.
Are there good salary opportunities for doctors pursuing teaching or research roles in Germany?
Teaching and research roles in Germany provide stable career paths, though salaries are typically lower than in clinical practice. Professors may earn between €60,000 (INR 55.5L) and €120,000 (INR 1.1CR) annually, with opportunities to supplement income through research grants and industry collaborations.
What challenges do doctors face in Germany despite high salaries?
Despite high salaries, doctors face challenges like long working hours, burnout, and the pressure of meeting performance targets. For example, resident doctors (Assistenzarzt) often work 60-70 hour weeks, which can take a toll on personal health. In addition, the heavy administrative burden can be challenging, especially with the increasing digitization of patient records.
How are doctors in Germany adapting to new technologies like telemedicine and AI in patient care?
Doctors in Germany are increasingly integrating telemedicine and AI into their practices to improve efficiency and patient outcomes. For example, AI-assisted diagnostics, particularly in radiology and pathology, help doctors interpret results faster. However, the existing regulations may slow adoption.
This adaptation can increase earning potential, as doctors can get an additional stream of income, although training costs for these technologies can be high.
What impact does the aging population in Germany have on doctors’ workload and income?
The aging population in Germany is driving up demand for doctors in geriatrics and palliative care, leading to higher patient volumes. For instance, specialists in these fields may experience an increase in patients each year, resulting in longer hours and higher workloads.
While this can lead to burnout, salary increases of 5-10% are expected in these sectors as demand grows, offering both financial and career growth opportunities.
How do social and cultural factors in Germany affect doctors' career progression and salaries?
In Germany, doctors' careers and salaries are influenced by their ability to connect with a diverse patient base. In urban areas like Berlin and Frankfurt, doctors who speak multiple languages, such as Turkish or Arabic, can attract a broader patient demographic.
Specializations like mental health, which require strong interpersonal skills, often see higher salaries as they focus on building trust. Additionally, doctors practicing in rural areas of Bavaria may benefit from understanding alternative treatments.
What role does continued medical education play in a doctor's career in Germany?
In Germany, continued medical education (CME) is crucial for career advancement, particularly in competitive specialties like cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
For example, cardiologists in Germany earn an average of €120,000 (INR 1.1CR) annually. Pursuing additional certifications and training in these high-demand specialties may enhance career prospects and potentially lead to increased earnings.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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