Below are practical, useful FAQs to guide international doctors who are thinking of working in Ireland.
- Can international doctors work in Ireland?
- What are the minimum requirements to work as a doctor in Ireland?
- What qualifications do I need?
- Do I need to register with the Irish Medical Council to apply for a job?
- Are there different routes to registration with the IMC?
- How long does IMC registration take?
- What support does Head Medical provide during the process?
- What is the typical salary for doctors in Ireland?
- What is it like working as a doctor in Ireland?
- Do I need Irish or EU experience?
- Is relocation support available?
- How do I get started?
Yes. Ireland recruits international doctors across a range of specialties. However, you must meet eligibility criteria including qualifications and experience. You can apply for roles in both public and private hospitals.
Generally, you will need:
• IMC registration
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/OET if required)
• Relevant clinical experience for the role you’re applying for
• Up-to-date CV and references
• Right to work in Ireland (Head Medical will advise on options)
You must hold a recognised medical degree from comparable countries to Ireland. The Irish Medical Council (IMC) will assess your qualification and experience as part of the registration process.
Yes. It is essential that all practising doctors in Ireland are registered with the IMC.
Yes, there are various divisions of IMC registration, and the full list reads as follows:
• Trainee Specialist Division
• Internship Registration
• Specialist Division
• General Division
• Supervised Division
• Visiting EEA Practitioners Division
The Specialist Division is the most common route and is specifically for doctors who have completed their specialist training, which must be recognised by the IMC, and who are able to practise independently as specialist doctors.
General Division: Doctors who do not practise in individually numbered, identifiable training posts, who have not been proposed for a post in the Supervised Division, and who have not completed recognised specialist medical training must register under General Registration.
If you are considering applying to work as a doctor in Ireland, we strongly recommend that you are registered, or have at least begun your registration with the IMC, before applying for roles. Most employers that we work with require IMC registration (or proof that it is underway) before they can progress your application.
Please note: Head Medical does not assist with IMC registration. Candidates are responsible for completing their own registration directly with the IMC.
Typical processing times range from 3 to 6 months. Timelines vary depending on your registration route, training background from the country that you are applying from and how quickly you provide documentation.
While we do not assist with IMC registration, Head Medical can support you with:
• Finding suitable job opportunities
• Guiding you through the recruitment process
• Preparing for interviews
• Liaising with employers
Junior Doctors: Standard HSE contract working hours are 39 hours a week
• SHO - Basic Pay based on 39 hours (7 Point) €54,203 - €56,868 - €60,899 - €63,554 - €68,891 - €71,544 - €74,133
• Registrar - Basic Pay 39 Hours (6 Point) €68,891 - €71,544 - €74,133 - €76,039 - €78,577 - €81,126
Consultants: Standard HSE contract working hours are 37 hours a week
• Consultant - Basic Pay based on 37 hours (6 Point) - €233,527 €246,150 €259,475 €266,489 €273,501 €280,513
Joining a medical position in any new healthcare system can bring its challenges but Ireland offers one the most supportive, multicultural working environments with strong training opportunities. Many international doctors highlight a welcoming clinical culture, supportive colleagues, and a sense of community you don’t find everywhere.
No, you don’t need Irish or EU experience to work in Ireland, but it helps. If you trained in the UK, another EU/EEA country, or Ireland, you’re at a strong advantage in what is a competitive job market for doctors.
Moving to a different country can be costly. To help with initial expenses such as flights and accommodation, a generous International Relocation Package is available.
Eligibility for the International Relocation Package:
• All grades of HSE staff are eligible for the international recruitment Relocation Package.
• It is available to candidates who are resident outside of Ireland and relocating to take up either a permanent post or a temporary post of at least 2 years.
Allowances included: The package provides an allowance towards flight and accommodation costs of up to €4,160 for EU/UK candidates and €4,710 for non-EU candidates.
1. Begin or complete your IMC registration.
2. Contact Head Medical to discuss suitable vacancies.
3. Prepare your CV and references.
4. We will then arrange interviews and guide you through the recruitment process.
Get in touch today : stuart@headmedical.com | +44 7825398732