Switzerland combines clinical excellence, world-class technology and economic conditions that are difficult to match anywhere else in Europe. Its university hospitals rank among the most respected in the world, and the healthcare system genuinely values specialisation and professional development.
For specialist doctors from Spain, France, Italy or Portugal, Switzerland represents a real opportunity to practise in conditions that would take decades to achieve at home.
Salaries vary significantly depending on speciality, institution type and experience:
For comparison: a specialist doctor in Spain earns on average between €50,000 and €70,000 per year. In Switzerland, an experienced specialist can earn 2 to 3 times more, with a tax environment that in many cantons is more favourable than in southern European countries.
1. MEBEKO recognition of your qualification Unlike nursing and physiotherapy — where the SRK is responsible — doctors must obtain recognition through the MEBEKO (Medical Professions Commission). This federal authority evaluates European medical degrees and issues the licence to practise.
The process involves submitting your medical degree, specialist diploma, clinical experience certificates and identity documents. Timelines vary depending on the speciality and country of origin.
2. German level B2 or higher To work in German-speaking Switzerland — home to most reference hospitals — a minimum B2 level of German is required, though many university hospitals prefer C1. German is essential for clinical communication, report writing and teamwork.
3. European passport or valid work permit EU/EFTA citizens have direct access to the Swiss labour market.
For a European specialist doctor, the full process typically takes between 9 and 24 months, depending on the speciality, current German level and documentation complexity.
The MEBEKO process is more demanding than the SRK process for nurses or physiotherapists. Knowing exactly what is required, in what format and in what order makes an enormous difference.
The first step is assessing your specific situation: speciality, years of experience, current German level and target institution type. From there, a realistic plan with concrete timelines can be defined.
At FirstStepSwiss we support European specialist doctors throughout the entire process — from preparing the MEBEKO application to signing the contract.
For more information, visit firststepswiss.com