According to Statista, between 2023 and 2024, there was a shortage of at least 26,800 doctors in Canada.
Canada continues to attract medical professionals with its competitive salaries and strong healthcare infrastructure. Doctors in Canada earn an average annual salary of CA$200K (INR 1.20CR). Highly paid specialists like Ophthalmologists can earn as much as CA$870K (INR 5.24CR), while General Medicine practitioners typically earn closer to the national average.
But salaries can vary widely depending on factors like specialisation, geographic location, experience level, and whether doctors work in public hospitals or private clinics. This guide breaks down doctor salary in Canada by each of these aspects and explains how demand, cost of living, and regional healthcare policies shape earning potential.
The healthcare sector in Canada employs over 97,384 doctors, reflecting a strong medical workforce. However, with a doctor-to-people ratio of 1:412, there is still room for improvement in patient access to healthcare services. Understanding these statistics is essential for identifying gaps and making informed decisions about specialisation, location, and career opportunities in Canada.
Below are some key statistics to help you grasp the overall structure of the medical profession in Canada.
Number of Doctors in Canada
97,384
Doctor to People Ratio
1:412
Education Duration
10 to 14 years, including undergraduate, medical school, and licensing exam (MCCQE).
Understanding these figures will set a strong foundation for learning about doctor salary in Canada across various specialisations. Move on to the next section to explore how these specialisations impact earning potential.
Average Doctor Salary In Canada: By Specialisation
Doctor salary in Canada varies widely based on specialisation, with Ophthalmologists earning the average annual salary of CA$870K (INR 5.24CR). Surgical specialists, Urologists, and General Surgeons also earn substantial amounts, exceeding CA$500K (INR 3CR) annually.
In contrast, General Medicine and Psychiatry offer lower salaries, averaging around CA$200K (INR 1.20CR) and CA$327K (INR 1.97CR), respectively.
These differences occur due to factors such as skill demand, complexity of procedures, education duration, and patient volume. Specialisations involving intricate surgeries or high-risk treatments, like Ophthalmology, offer higher compensation.
Below is a detailed breakdown of doctor salary in Canada by specialisation.
Specialisation
Annual Average Salary (CA$)
Annual Average Salary (INR)
Ophthalmology
CA$870K
INR 5.24CR
Surgical specialists
CA$575K
INR 3.46CR
Urology
CA$577K
INR 3.47CR
General surgery
CA$541K
INR 3.26CR
Cardiology
CA$536K
INR 3.23CR
Otolaryngology
CA$528K
INR 3.18CR
Plastic surgery
CA$506K
INR 3.05CR
Orthopedic surgery
CA$506K
INR 3.05CR
Gastroenterology
CA$502K
INR 3.02CR
Obstetrics/gynecology
CA$484K
INR 2.92CR
Internal medicine
CA$472K
INR 2.84CR
Dermatology
CA$480K
INR 2.89CR
Medical specialists
CA$413K
INR 2.49CR
Pediatrics
CA$366K
INR 2.20CR
Neurology
CA$357K
INR 2.15CR
Family medicine
CA$332K
INR 1.99CR
Psychiatry
CA$327K
INR 1.97CR
General Medicine
CA$200K
INR 1.20CR
Source: Payscale, Invested
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Since specialisation plays a critical role in earnings, it's essential to see how experience further shapes doctor salary in Canada. The following section breaks down salaries by experience level, highlighting income growth over the years.
Doctor Salary in Canada: By Experience
Doctor salary in Canada increases steadily with experience. Entry-level doctors employed by hospitals earn around CA$165K (INR 99.38L), while experienced independent practitioners earn as high as CA$245K (INR 1.48CR).
These salary differences are influenced by s factors like specialisation, employment type, and the scope of responsibilities. Hospital-employed doctors usually have stable incomes, while independent practitioners can earn more due to private practice and higher patient volumes.
As doctors progress in their careers, their compensation reflects growing expertise, patient volume, and clinical autonomy.
Here’s how salaries evolve across experience levels in Canada.
Experience Level
Annual Average Salary
Hospital Employed
Entry-level
CA$99K (INR 59.62L)
CA$165K (INR 99.38L)
Mid-Level
CA$207K (INR 1.25CR)
CA$182K (INR 1.09CR)
Experienced
CA$245K (INR 1.48CR)
CA$195K (INR 1.17CR)
Source: Payscale, Glassdoor
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
While experience contributes significantly to earnings, location plays an equally important role. The next section explores how doctor salary in Canada varies across different regions.
Doctor Salary in Canada: By Location
Doctor salary in Canada varies across cities, with Montréal offering a high average annual salary of CA$200K (INR 1.20CR). Vancouver follows closely with CA$194K (INR 1.16CR). Factors like population density, healthcare demand, and the presence of specialized healthcare facilities contribute to these differences.
Below is a detailed breakdown of doctor salary in Canada by location.
Location
Annual Average Salary (C$)
Annual Average Salary (INR)
Calgary
CA$151K
INR 90.95L
Toronto
CA$160K
INR 96.37L
Winnipeg
CA$147K
INR 88.54L
Vancouver
CA$194K
INR 1.16CR
Mississauga
CA$153K
INR 92.15L
Montréal
CA$200K
INR 1.20CR
Source: Payscale
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Understanding salary variations across locations within Canada is essential, but comparing salaries across countries offers deeper insight into earning potential. The next section highlights how doctor salary in Canada measures up against other nations.
Average Doctor Salary in Canada vs Other Countries: Comparison
Doctor salary in Canada is highly competitive compared to other nations. While Canada offers an average annual salary of CA$200K (INR 1.20CR), the USA surpasses this with $183K (INR 1.52CR).
Variations in salary stem from factors such as healthcare funding models, physician-to-patient ratios, national income levels, and medical licensing pathways.
Here’s how average doctor salaries in Canada compare to other key nations around the world.
Country
Average Annual Salary
Average Annual Salary (INR)
Canada
CA$200K
INR 1.20CR
USA
$183K
INR 1.52CR
UK
£60K
INR 62.70L
New Zealand
NZ$150K
INR 71.80L
Australia
AU$138K
INR 71.24L
Germany
€60K
INR 56.12L
India
INR 7L
INR 7L
Source: Payscale
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Assessing salary variations by country provides essential insights, but income differences within Canada’s healthcare settings are equally important. The next section dives into how doctor salary in Canada differs across various healthcare environments.
Salary Comparison in Different Healthcare Settings in Canada
Doctor salary in Canada differs significantly based on healthcare settings. Government hospitals and academic positions offer the highest average salaries at CA$165K (INR 99.38L) each. Private hospitals offer slightly lower compensation at CA$158K (INR 95.16L).
Independent practice presents the lowest average salary at CA$100K (INR 60.23L). This variation is driven by factors like job stability, funding, patient volume, and administrative responsibilities associated with each setting.
Below is a detailed comparison of doctor salary in Canada across various healthcare settings.
Healthcare Setting
Annual Average Salary (C$)
Annual Average Salary (INR)
Government Hospital
C$165K
INR 99.38L
Practise
C$100K
INR 60.23L
Academics
C$165K
INR 99.38L
Private Hospital
C$158K
INR 95.16L
Source: Glassdoor, Indeed
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Each healthcare environment comes with its own set of advantages, responsibilities, and earning potential. The next section explores the most important factors shaping doctor salaries in Canada in 2025.
Factors Affecting Doctor Salary in Canada in 2025
Multiple factors such as experience, specialisation, and location influence doctor salaries in Canada. With a projected shortage of nearly 22,000 general practitioners and family physicians between 2024 and 2033, the demand for qualified professionals continues to rise.
Understanding these salary-influencing factors is essential if you're planning a medical career in Canada, it helps you set realistic expectations, choose the right specialisation, and make informed decisions about where and how to practice.
Below are the primary factors impacting doctor salary in Canada:
Specialisation: Specialists like surgeons and cardiologists earn higher salaries due to the complexity and demand of their work. For instance, surgical specialists have an average annual salary of CA$575K (INR 3.46CR), while family physicians average around CA$332K (INR 1.99CR).
Experience: Experience significantly impacts earnings. Entry-level doctors employed by hospitals earn about CA$165K (INR 99.38L), whereas experienced independent practitioners can earn up to CA$245K (INR 1.48CR).
Geographic Location: Salaries vary by region. In Vancouver, doctors earn an average of CA$194K (INR 1.16CR), while in Winnipeg, the average is CA$147K (INR 88.54L).
Healthcare Setting: The work environment affects income. Government hospital and academic positions offer average salaries of CA$165K (INR 99.38L), whereas private practice averages around CA$100K (INR 60.23L).
Gender Pay Gap: Female physicians often earn less than their male counterparts within the same specialty. This disparity is influenced by factors such as case mix, referral patterns, and time spent per patient.
Economic Trends: General salary increases in Canada also affect physician earnings. In 2024, salary-increase budgets averaged 3.9%, with a forecasted 3.5% increase for 2025.
Recognizing these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about your medical career in Canada. The next section will explore how upGrad can assist you in preparing for doctor jobs in Canada.
How Can upGrad Support Your Medical Career Plans in Canada?
upGrad provides personalized support for medical professionals aiming to practice in Canada. From expert-led mentorship to personalized learning paths, upGrad helps you understand every step of your journey, from understanding licensing requirements to building a globally relevant profile.
Here’s how upGrad can help you:
Career Guidance and Mentorship: We connect you with experts who provide valuable insights about the Canadian healthcare system, helping you understand the qualifications, certifications, and job opportunities available.
Skill Development Programs: Tailored training modules, workshops, and practical sessions designed to enhance your skills, making you a more competitive candidate in the Canadian medical field.
Application and Documentation Support: The application process can be complex. We offer advisory support for handling documentation, licensing requirements, and understanding the nuances of working in the Canadian healthcare sector.
Planning to establish a rewarding medical career in Canada? Book a free counseling session with upGrad’s expert advisors today and gain the insights you need to excel.
Is it worth being a doctor in Canada, considering the cost of living?
Yes, pursuing a medical career in Canada can be financially rewarding. The average annual salary for physicians is approximately CA$200K (INR 1.20CR), which is competitive and generally sufficient to manage the cost of living of around C$2.3K (INR 1.38L) and month in most regions.
Do doctors in Canada get paid by the hour or flat salaries?
Most doctors in Canada are paid through a fee-for-service model — they earn per patient visit or procedure. In some settings like hospitals or teaching institutions, doctors may receive fixed salaries or hourly compensation, but fee-for-service remains the most common method.
What benefits do doctors in Canada receive apart from salary?
In addition to their earnings, doctors may receive benefits such as extended health and dental coverage, professional development funds, paid vacation, and pension plans. The benefits often depend on whether they’re working in public healthcare institutions, private practices, or academic settings.
How many hours does a doctor work in Canada?
On average, physicians work around 45.9 hours per week, down from 52.8 hours in 1987. Male doctors have seen a larger drop in hours, while female doctors' weekly hours have remained relatively steady at approximately 45 hours.
Can doctors in Canada earn extra income through teaching or research?
Yes, many doctors supplement their income by working as university lecturers, researchers, or consultants. These roles not only provide additional earnings but also expand professional networks and academic credentials.
Will working in private practice increase my earning potential as a doctor in Canada?
Private practice can offer higher income potential, but it also comes with overhead expenses such as rent, staff salaries, equipment, and insurance.. For example, a doctor's gross income might be CA$400K (INR 2.41CR), with CA$150K (INR 90.35L) allocated to overhead, leaving a net income of CA$250K (INR 1.51CR).
Can I obtain a medical degree in India and apply for a job in Canada?
Yes, Indian medical graduates can practice in Canada, but they must pass the MCCQE Part I, NAC OSCE, and secure residency via CaRMS. They also need provincial licensure. The National Medical Commission of India is recognized by WFME, which eases the pathway for Indian graduates in Canada until 2033.
How does working in a rural area impact a doctor’s salary?
Practicing in rural or remote communities can lead to higher salaries due to increased demand and government incentives. Despite 20% of Canadians living in these areas, only 14% of family doctors serve there, creating opportunities for higher compensation.
Do doctors with MBAs or dual degrees in Canada earn more?
Physicians holding dual degrees, such as an MD-MBA, may access higher-paying leadership roles in healthcare administration or the pharmaceutical industry. Salaries in these positions can range from $127K (INR 1.05CR) to $502K (INR 4.18CR), depending on the role and organization.
Do military doctors earn as much as civilian doctors in Canada?
No. Military doctors in Canada receive decent compensation packages, including salaries, benefits, and allowances. According to the Canadian Armed Forces, medical officers receive an additional annual pay of $39K(INR 32.44L) equating to approximately $107 (INR 8.89K). But, these figures fall way behind what civilian doctors earn i.e., C$200K (INR 1.20CR).
How will AI and automation impact doctor salaries in the future in Canada?
Integrating AI into Canadian healthcare could reduce annual healthcare spending by approximately 4.5% to 8.0%, enhancing efficiency and patient care. While AI may automate certain tasks, it can also support physicians by minimizing routine administrative duties, which currently consume up to 70% of their time.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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