Are you an African doctor looking for better opportunities abroad? Whether it’s higher salaries, better working conditions, or structured career growth, many African doctors are moving to countries that value their skills and offer a better quality of life.
But where should you go?
In today’s post, we will break down the best countries for African doctors, looking at salary potential, ease of relocation, and work-life balance.
Why Are African Doctors Moving Abroad?
Before we dive into the best countries, let’s talk about why many doctors are choosing to leave their home countries:
1️⃣ Low Salaries & Late Payments
In many African countries, doctors earn far less than their counterparts abroad. Worse still, salary delays can stretch for months, leaving doctors struggling financially.
2️⃣ Overwork & Burnout ⏳
Doctors in Africa often work 48–72+ hour shifts in under-resourced hospitals. With high patient loads and staff shortages, burnout is inevitable.
3️⃣ Limited Specialization & Career Growth
In many African countries, specialization slots are limited, training is expensive, and career progression is slow.
4️⃣ Better Quality of Life Abroad
Countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia offer higher salaries, better healthcare infrastructure, and improved work-life balance.
Now, let’s get into the best countries for African doctors to work and earn more!
Top 5 Best Countries for African Doctors
United Kingdom (UK) – Most Popular Destination
The UK is the #1 destination for African doctors due to its high demand for foreign-trained physicians and the relatively easy PLAB exam pathway.
✔ Average Salary: £30,000–£70,000 per year ($38,000–$88,000)
✔ Hours: 48-hour workweek (regulated)
✔ Specialization: Structured NHS training pathways
✔ Benefits: Free healthcare, pension, study leave, and family support
⚠ Challenges:
❌ High cost of living in London
❌ PLAB exam required before licensing
Why Choose the UK? ✅ High demand for doctors, ✅ Fast-track specialty training, ✅ Secure job market
United States (USA) – High Salaries, Tough Entry
The USA offers some of the highest salaries in the world for doctors, but it has a challenging entry process (USMLE exams + competitive residency).
✔ Average Salary: $120,000–$400,000 per year
✔ Specialization: Unlimited opportunities in any medical field
✔ Technology & Research: World-class medical facilities
✔ Pathway to citizenship: Work visas and green card sponsorship available
⚠ Challenges:
❌ USMLE exams are difficult & expensive
❌ Residency spots are competitive
Why Choose the USA? ✅ Highest salaries, ✅ Advanced medical research, ✅ Career growth opportunities
Canada – Friendly Immigration & High Pay
Canada is increasingly popular due to strong healthcare funding, good salaries, and friendly immigration policies.
✔ Average Salary: $100,000–$300,000 per year
✔ Quality of Life: High standard of living, excellent schools, and free healthcare
✔ Pathway to Citizenship: Doctors can apply for Permanent Residency (PR)
✔ Work-Life Balance: Less burnout than in Africa
⚠ Challenges:
❌ Licensing via MCCQE exam can take time
❌ Canadian winters are extremely cold! ❄️
Why Choose Canada? ✅ Stable job market, ✅ Free healthcare for family, ✅ Easy PR & citizenship options
Australia & New Zealand – Best Work-Life Balance
Australia and New Zealand are actively recruiting African doctors due to shortages, offering excellent salaries and benefits.
✔ Average Salary: $80,000–$250,000 per year
✔ Shorter Work Hours: 40-hour workweek (better than UK & USA)
✔ Easy Licensing Pathway: AMC (Australia) and MCNZ (New Zealand) exams
✔ Beautiful Living Environment: Warm climate, beaches, and high quality of life
⚠ Challenges:
❌ Visa processing can take time
❌ Expensive travel back to Africa
Why Choose Australia or New Zealand? ✅ Great pay, ✅ Relaxed lifestyle, ✅ Easier work permits
UAE & Saudi Arabia – Tax-Free Salaries!
For high salaries without income tax, the Middle East is a top choice. UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar offer great pay and benefits.
✔ Average Salary: $70,000–$250,000 per year (TAX-FREE)
✔ Perks: Free housing, flights, education for kids
✔ High Demand: African doctors are highly recruited
✔ No licensing exams required for some hospitals
⚠ Challenges:
❌ Strict work regulations and cultural adjustments
❌ Some hospitals have long working hours
Why Choose the UAE or Saudi Arabia? ✅ Tax-free salaries, ✅ Free housing & travel, ✅ Quick recruitment process
Which Country is Right for You?
Best Overall Choice → United Kingdom
➡ Easiest for African doctors via the PLAB pathway.
Best Salary → United States
➡ Highest earning potential but tough licensing (USMLE).
Best Work-Life Balance → Australia & New Zealand
➡ Great salaries, relaxed lifestyle, and fewer work hours.
Best for Immigration → Canada
➡ Friendly to foreign doctors, easy PR & citizenship.
Best for Fast Money → UAE & Saudi Arabia
➡ Tax-free income, free housing, and high salaries.
Steps to Start Your Medical Career Abroad
1️⃣ Choose your destination based on salary, lifestyle, and career goals.
2️⃣ Check the licensing exams required (PLAB, USMLE, MCCQE, AMC).
3️⃣ Improve your CV with medical experience and English proficiency (IELTS/OET).
4️⃣ Start applying for jobs through official healthcare recruitment programs.
5️⃣ Apply for visas and relocate!
Final Thoughts – Should You Move Abroad?
If you’re an African doctor looking for better pay, career growth, and work-life balance, moving abroad may be a great option!
However, research thoroughly and choose the country that best fits your long-term goals.
Are you considering working abroad? Comment below and share your thoughts!
Know a doctor who might be interested? Share this post with them!