How to Get Medical Residency and Work in the USA, Aus, UK or other countries as an IMG (Step-by-Step Guide)

 The process for foreign MBBS graduates to obtain residency and work in the listed countries involves several steps, including exams, language proficiency, certifications, and visa applications. Below is a structured overview for each country:

United States

1. Exams: Pass USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK, and (formerly Step 2 CS, now discontinued).

2. ECFMG Certification: Required for residency application.

3. Residency Application: Apply via ERAS; participate in the NRMP Match.

4. Visa: J-1 (common) or H-1B (requires hospital sponsorship).

5. Job: Post-residency, obtain a state medical license and board certification.

Canada

1. Exams: MCCQE Part 1 and NAC OSCE.

2. Residency: Apply through CaRMS (limited IMG spots); some provinces require a return-of-service contract.

3. Licensing: Provincial registration after completing residency.

4. Language: IELTS/CELPIP (CLB 7+).

5. PR: Apply via Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Germany

1. Language: C1 German proficiency (TestDaF/Goethe).

2. Recognition: Degree assessed by state authorities; may             require Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam).

3. Approval: Obtain Approbation (medical license).

4. Job: Direct applications to hospitals; residency (Facharztausbildung).

Australia

1. Exams: AMC CAT MCQ and Clinical Exam.

2. Registration: With Medical Board of Australia (competent authority pathway for UK/Ireland/Canada/US graduates).

3. Internship: Required for full registration.

4. Residency: Apply via state-based programs (e.g., PMCV).

5. Visa: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) or permanent via General Skilled Migration.

United Kingdom

1. Exams: PLAB 1 & 2 or UKMLA (from 2024).

2. Registration: GMC registration with IELTS/OET (Grade B).

3. Foundation Training: Required for residency; IMGs often enter directly into specialty training.

4. Visa: Skilled Worker Visa (job offer required).

Switzerland

1. Language: Proficiency in German/French/Italian (regional).

2. Recognition: Degree assessed by MEBEKO; may require *Fähigkeitszeugnis* (equivalence exam).

3. Job: Apply directly to hospitals; competitive positions.

Denmark

1. Language: Danish proficiency (Studieprøven or PD3).

2. Authorization: Danish Patient Safety Authority approval; possible 6-month adaptation period.

3. Job: Apply via regional health services.

New Zealand

1. Exams: NZREX Clinical or competent authority pathway (UK/Australia).

2. Registration: Medical Council of New Zealand (supervised practice first).

3. Visa: Work to Residence visa; residency via Skilled Migrant Category.

Sweden

1. Language: Swedish (TISUS test).

2. License: National Board of Health and Welfare approval; possible supplementary training.

3. Job: Apply through county councils.

Norway

1. Language: Bergenstesten (B2/C1 Norwegian).

2. Authorization: Norwegian Directorate of Health assessment; possible additional training.

3. Job: Apply via public health system or municipal services.

General Notes

- Visa/PR: Most countries offer pathways via skilled worker visas, often leading to permanent residency.

- Language: Non-English speaking countries require local language proficiency (often B2/C1).

- Competitiveness: IMG spots are limited in the US/Canada; EU countries may prioritize EU graduates.

Each process is stringent and time-consuming; early preparation for exams, language, and credential recognition is crucial. Consulting each country’s medical council and immigration websites for updates is recommended.