How to Work and Immigrate to Singapore as a Doctor?

Is There a Demand for Doctors in Singapore?

Let’s see how to work as a doctor in Singapore. There is a consistent demand for doctors in Singapore, especially in specialties that are facing a shortage. The country’s healthcare system is expanding, creating more opportunities for both local and foreign-trained doctors to fill these gaps.

How to Immigrate to Singapore as a Doctor?

Knowing How to work as a doctor in Singapore can make the process easy for you. With that said, let’s see how to immigrate to Singapore as a doctor and the multi-step process involved:

1. Understanding the Requirements
2. Evaluating Your Qualifications
3. Passing the Licensing Examinations
4. Securing a Job Offer
5. Applying for Registration with the SMC
6. Applying for a Work Visa
7. Preparing for the Move

Step 1. Understanding the Requirements

To practice medicine in Singapore as a foreign-trained doctor, you must meet the following simplified requirements set by the Singapore Medical Council (SMC):

• You must hold a medical degree from a university listed in the SMC’s recognized medical schools. Check the official list to confirm your degree is valid.
• You must pass the SMC’s licensing examination. This ensures you meet Singapore’s medical knowledge and skill standards.
• You need to complete a recognized horsemanship or clinical internship. This period usually lasts about a year and helps you gain practical experience.
• You must work under supervision at an SMC-approved healthcare institution. This allows you to gain experience while meeting Singapore’s medical standards.
• You need to get a job offer from a healthcare institution recognized by the SMC. The institution must agree to supervise your work during your conditional registration period.
• Once you meet the conditional registration requirements, you can apply for full registration. This allows you to practice independently in Singapore.
• You must prove your ability to speak and understand English. At least 7.0 in IELTS or an equivalent score in another recognized test is required.

Step 2. Evaluating Your Qualifications

To immigrate to Singapore as a doctor, you have to ask yourself: “Is an overseas degree Recognized in Singapore?” If you received your medical degree outside of Singapore, your qualifications need to be recognized by the SMC. Which foreign medical degrees are Recognized in Singapore? The SMC maintains a list of medical schools whose degrees are accepted. Here are some of the Singapore medical-approved overseas universities:

• Australia
  • University of Melbourne
  • Monash University
  • University of Sydney
• Canada
  • University of Toronto
  • McGill University
• United Kingdom
  • University of Oxford
  • University College London
  • Imperial College London
• United States
  • Harvard Medical School
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Stanford University School of Medicine

To apply for registration with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) as part of the process of immigrating to Singapore as a doctor, follow these detailed steps:

1. Before starting your application, gather and prepare all necessary documents. This typically includes:
   • Diplomas and transcripts from your medical school and any postgraduate education.
   • Documentation of your completed clinical training, including internships and residencies, with detailed descriptions of the duration and nature of the training.
   • Copies of current medical licenses or registrations from other jurisdictions where you’ve practiced.
   • Obtained from the medical boards or councils of all countries where you’ve been registered within the last 5 years.
   • Passport-size photo and a copy of your passport.
   • If required, results from an English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL. A minimum of 7.0 in IELTS or an equivalent score in another recognized English test.
   • Depending on your specific circumstances, the SMC may request further documentation, such as evidence of specialty qualifications, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement.
2. Go to the SMC website and locate the online registration portal. Create an account if you don’t already have one.
3. Fill out the application form. Provide all requested information accurately. Attach digital copies of all the documents you’ve prepared.
4. Pay the application fee. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid online through the SMC portal. The application fee for registering with the SMC typically ranges from SGD 300 to SGD 500.
5. Carefully review your application and all attached documents. Once confident, submit your application through the online portal.
6. After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment from the SMC. This may take several weeks to months.
7. Initial review takes 2-4 weeks, and the comprehensive processing takes up to 3-6 months for the full processing of your application.
8. In some cases, the SMC may require an interview as part of the application process. If so, you will be notified in advance to prepare and schedule the interview.
9. Once your application is processed and reviewed, the SMC will inform you of their decision. If approved, you will receive details on how to work as a doctor in Singapore and how to proceed with obtaining your Practicing Certificate, allowing you to legally practice medicine in Singapore.

Step 3. Passing the Licensing Examinations for immigrate to Singapore as a doctor

To immigrate to Singapore as a doctor, passing the Singapore Medical Council’s licensing examination is a must. Singapore medical license exams for foreigners typically include both written and clinical components. Let’s learn more about the exam:

• Name: The licensing examination is referred to as the EM Examination (MCQ).
• Administered by: The Singapore Medical Council (SMC), with the actual examination process facilitated by Pearson VUE.
• Exam Date: Key dates for the examination cycle, including application windows and the actual examination date, are announced by the SMC.
• Where to Take It: The examination is conducted at designated test centers managed by Pearson VUE.

Step 4. Securing a Job Offer for immigrate to Singapore as a doctor

To immigrate to Singapore as a doctor, you must have a job offer from a healthcare institution in Singapore. This is because the SMC requires a practicing certificate to be sponsored by an employing healthcare institution. Get help from the following:

Job Search Websites

• JobStreet Singapore
• MyCareersFuture Singapore
• Indeed Singapore

Recruitment Agencies

• People360
• Randstad Singapore

Step 5. Applying for Registration with the SMC

Let’s answer another frequent question: “How to register in the Singapore medical council?” Let’s see how to immigrate to Singapore as a doctor:

1. Visit the SMC official website to understand the different categories of registration (e.g., Full Registration, Conditional Registration, Temporary Registration) and determine which category applies to your situation. Familiarize yourself with the Medical Registration Act 1997, which governs the practice of medicine in Singapore.
2. Gather your documents.
   • Passport-size photograph, NRIC or passport copy, and any name change documentation.
   • Medical degree certificate and transcripts, along with any other postgraduate qualifications. Ensure that your medical school is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.
   • Certificates of registration and good standing certificates from medical councils of all countries where you have practiced.
   • A detailed job offer letter from the healthcare institution in Singapore, including job scope and duration of employment.
   • Proof of proficiency in English, if required (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores).
3. Apply for registration online by creating an account and submitting your application through the SMC’s online portal. This involves filling out your personal and professional details, uploading your documents, and paying the fee. The application fees range from SGD 300 to SGD 1,500.
4. The SMC will verify your credentials with the respective issuing authorities. This process can take 2-4 weeks.
5. Depending on the category of registration and other factors, you may be required to attend an interview with the SMC.
6. Once approved, you will receive a notification from the SMC. The approval process can vary in duration, often taking 3-6 months.
7. After receiving registration approval, you must apply for a Practising Certificate (PC) before you can legally practice medicine in Singapore. Apply through the SMC online portal, including any required fees. The PC is valid for a specific period, typically one or two years, and must be renewed. The fee is approximately SGD 50 to SGD 400 annually.
8. Enroll in the SMC’s Compulsory Continuing Medical Education (CME) program. Continuous professional development is mandatory for maintaining your Practising Certificate.

Step 6. Applying for a Work Visa to immigrate to Singapore as a doctor

To immigrate to Singapore as a doctor, you must apply for a work visa. The Employment Pass (EP) is the most common type for foreign professionals in Singapore. To apply for a Singapore Employment Pass (EP), the process includes:

1. Your employer must apply on your behalf to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) via the EP Online portal. The employer needs to have a registered account on the MOM EP Online system to start the application process.
2. Gather the required documents:
   • Your personal details, including full name, passport details, address, and marital status.
   • Job offer details must include the job title, job description, and the reason for hiring a foreign professional.
   • Qualifications include educational certificates and professional licenses, if applicable, with official translations for non-English documents.
   • Salary information must meet the current criteria for EP eligibility.
3. The employer completes the application by filling in all required fields in the EP Online portal and uploading the necessary documents. The application fee ranges from SGD 70 to SGD 150, which is non-refundable.
4. MOM reviews the submitted application and documents for eligibility and compliance with EP criteria. The review process involves assessing your qualifications, the job’s relevance, and the employer’s track record. It typically takes around three weeks for online submissions.
5. If the application is approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which is sent electronically to the employer. The IPA letter includes details on the next steps, including any conditions that must be met before the EP can be issued.
6. You can enter Singapore using the IPA letter, which serves as a temporary entry visa if required (depending on the candidate’s nationality). The IPA letter is valid for six months from the date of issuance, giving the candidate sufficient time to enter Singapore and complete the next steps.

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Step 7. Preparing for the Move

Being a doctor in Singapore and settling in involves several crucial steps. To see how life is as a doctor in Singapore, you better know about these topics:

• A bank account is essential to manage your finances, receive salary, and pay bills. Famous banks in Singapore include:
  • DBS Bank (Development Bank of Singapore)
  • OCBC Bank (Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation)
  • UOB Bank (United Overseas Bank)
  • Standard Chartered Bank
  • Citibank
• You can rent an apartment, a condo, or an HDB (Housing Development Board) flat. Popular websites for finding housing include:
  • PropertyGuru
  • 99.co
  • SRX
  • iProperty.com.sg
  • Carousell Property
• While your employer may provide basic coverage, you might want additional coverage. Famous health insurance companies in Singapore include:
  • AIA Singapore
  • Great Eastern Life
  • Prudential Assurance Company Singapore
  • AXA Insurance
  • NTUC Income
• Continuing Education and Compliance
  • Engage actively in Continuing Medical Education (CME) to meet the SMC requirements and stay updated with the latest in medical practice.
  • Keep track of your CME points through the SMC portal and ensure compliance with all professional regulations and ethical guidelines.
• Read our other articles to learn more about immigrating as a doctor.

Singapore Medical License Exam for Foreigners

The Singapore Medical License Exam (SMC QE) is for foreign-trained doctors. Passing this exam allows you to practice medicine in Singapore.

You need a medical degree from a school recognized by the Singapore Medical Council (SMC). You also need a job offer from a healthcare institution approved by the SMC.

• The exam has two parts:
  Part I: This written test tests your knowledge of medicine, surgery, and related subjects.
  Part II: This practical test evaluates your clinical skills and ability to handle real-life medical scenarios.

You can study Singapore’s medical standards and guidelines. You better Focus on general medicine, surgery, and patient communication. Practice clinical skills because the exam includes hands-on assessments.

Once you pass, you must work under supervision with conditional registration. This period allows you to gain experience in Singapore’s healthcare system. After meeting the requirements, you can go and apply for full registration.

You must also show strong English skills by meeting the language requirements set by the SMC.

Singapore Doctor Jobs for Foreigners

• General Practitioner
• Specialist Consultant
• Resident Physician
• Medical Officer
• Clinical Researcher
• Healthcare Administration

How Much Does a Doctor Earn in Singapore?

Now, let’s focus on another question: “How much do doctors earn during residency in Singapore?” Generally, first-year residents make approximately SGD 5,000 to SGD 6,000 per month.

By the time a resident reaches their final year of residency, which could be anywhere from the third to the sixth year, depending on the specialty, their monthly salary can range from approximately SGD 6,500 to SGD 8,000.

Here is a list of similar jobs with their salaries:

• General Practitioner (GP): SGD 120,000 to SGD 240,000 per annum.
• Internal Medicine: SGD 150,000 to SGD 300,000 annually.
• Pediatrics: SGD 150,000 to SGD 280,000 per year.
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN): SGD 180,000 to SGD 350,000 annually.
• Surgery: SGD 200,000 to over SGD 500,000 annually.
• Psychiatry: SGD 150,000 to SGD 280,000 per year.
• Anesthesiology: SGD 180,000 to SGD 400,000 annually.
• Emergency Medicine: SGD 140,000 to SGD 280,000 per year.
• Radiology: SGD 200,000 to SGD 450,000 annually.
• Dermatology: SGD 200,000 to SGD 400,000 per year.

What If My Medical Degree is Not Recognised in Singapore?

If your medical degree is not recognized in Singapore, there are still pathways you can consider to immigrate to Singapore as a doctor:

• Explore Alternative Pathways
  • Postgraduate Qualifications. Obtain a postgraduate qualification from a recognized institution. Some postgraduate qualifications may enhance your eligibility for registration with the SMC.
  • Additional Examinations. Look into taking additional examinations that may be recognized by the SMC, such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the PLAB test in the UK, which might open pathways to registration.
• Consider a Bridging Program. Check if there are any bridging programs or courses you can enroll in that the SMC recognizes. These programs are designed to update your knowledge and skills to meet Singapore’s medical standards.
• Apply for Conditional Registration. If you find employment in Singapore, you may be eligible for conditional registration. This allows you to practice under supervision in designated clinical service areas. You will need a healthcare institution in Singapore to sponsor your application and provide a structured training plan.
• Gain Relevant Clinical Experience. Work in jurisdictions or countries whose medical degrees are recognized by the SMC to gain clinical experience. Relevant clinical experience, especially in recognized healthcare systems, can be beneficial if you reapply in the future or if policies change.
• Regularly Check for Updates. The list of recognized medical schools and registration requirements can change. Regularly check the SMC website for the most current information and any new pathways or policies that may affect your eligibility.
• Consider Further Education in Singapore. If your ultimate goal is to practice in Singapore, consider pursuing further medical education, like a Master’s or a specialization program, from a Singaporean university recognized by the SMC.

How to Become a Doctor in Singapore?

To know how to become a doctor in Singapore as a foreigner, you need to through a series of steps:

1. Selecting a medical University in Singapore
2. Getting a Singapore Student Visa
3. Studying Medicine in Singapore
4. Internship

Step 1. Selecting a medical University in Singapore

Key institutions include:

• National University of Singapore (NUS)
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

To get admission into a medical university in Singapore for immigrate to Singapore as a doctor:

1. Visit the universities’ official websites to understand the course details, duration, and entry requirements.
2. Prepare your documents. This typically includes your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Most universities in Singapore require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with no component below 6.0. Alternatively, a TOEFL score of around 90-100 on the internet-based test is generally acceptable.
3. Submit your application online through the universities’ application portals. Pay attention to deadlines.
4. Some programs may need an interview. You can do it in person, over the phone, or via video call.

Step 2. Getting a Singapore Student Visa

To study medicine in Singapore, international students must obtain a Student’s Pass. The process is detailed and requires careful attention to ensure success:

1. Before applying for a Student’s Pass, you must be accepted into a full-time program at a Singaporean university. You will receive an offer letter, which is necessary for the Student’s Pass application.
2. The university that accepts you will register your application in the Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration System (SOLAR). You will get an email with login credentials and instructions on how to proceed.
3. Use the SOLAR application reference number provided by your university to log in. Fill out eForm 16 with your personal details, course details, and your university’s information. You will need to upload a digital passport-sized photograph that meets the specified requirements.
4. Pay the application fee. You are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD 30 for completing eForm 16. This fee can be paid online via SOLAR using a credit or debit card.
5. Review your application and submit it through SOLAR. After submission, monitor your application status online. The processing time is generally 2-4 weeks.
6. Some students may be required to undergo a medical examination as part of their Student’s Pass application. The specific requirements will be detailed in the SOLAR system or by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore.
7. Once approved, you will receive your In-Principle Approval letter through SOLAR. The IPA letter serves as a temporary entry permit to Singapore.
8. Pay the Student’s Pass issuance fee of SGD 60 and a multiple-entry visa fee if applicable. This can be done upon arrival in Singapore before collecting your Student’s Pass.
9. Travel to Singapore. Upon arrival in Singapore, make an appointment with ICA to have your photograph and fingerprints taken. You must bring your passport, disembarkation/embarkation card, IPA letter, and any other documents specified in your IPA letter. Once all formalities are completed, you will receive your Student’s Pass.

Step 3. Studying Medicine in Singapore

Nursing programs in Singapore cover a wide range of topics, including human biology, pharmacology, patient care, healthcare ethics, and clinical practice. The curriculum provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

In terms of Duration and tuition fees, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing typically takes 4 years to complete. Tuition fees can range from SGD 29,850 to SGD 38,400 per academic year, depending on the institution and financial aid available.

Step 4. Internship for how to work in singapore as a doctor

Nursing students are required to undergo clinical placements or internships as part of their curriculum. The universities arrange these placements and take place in hospitals, community health centers, or other healthcare settings in Singapore.

The aim is to expose students to real-world medical environments where they can apply their knowledge, develop their nursing skills, and understand patient care dynamics. The duration of clinical placements can vary, but they typically span several months to ensure students gain adequate hands-on experience.

How to Become a Vet Doctor in Singapore?

Earn a veterinary degree from an institution recognized by the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA). Complete any required practical training or internships. Apply for registration with the AVA to practice as a vet in Singapore.

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Can a Nurse Become a Doctor in Singapore?

Yes, a nurse can become a doctor in Singapore by following these steps:

1. Enroll in a recognized medical school to obtain a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), or equivalent degree. This involves passing entrance exams and meeting the school’s admission criteria.
2. Undergo the required years of study, which typically takes 5 years, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical training.
3. Complete a housemanship or internship, which is a supervised practical training period required for all medical graduates. In Singapore, this usually lasts for one year.
4. Apply for registration with the Medical Council to obtain a practicing license. This may involve passing additional assessments or exams as stipulated by the SMC.
5. If desired, pursue further specialization through residency programs or postgraduate studies, which requires additional years of training and examinations.

Immigrate to Singapore as a Doctor: Let’s Recap

Leaping to immigrate to Singapore as a doctor is an ambitious journey that promises not just professional but personal rewards. Armed with the right information, careful planning, and a bit of perseverance, your dream of practicing medicine in Singapore can become a reality.

If you have any questions and want to know how to work as a doctor in Singapore, write them in the comment section. You can also use Visa Library’s free consultation services.

FAQ for immigrate to Singapore as a doctor