The UK is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for medical consultants, offering competitive NHS salaries, a world-renowned healthcare system, and one of the most generous pension schemes available. While some European countries may offer higher base pay, the NHS provides a unique combination of job security, professional development, and an excellent work-life balance. Additionally, the NHS pension ensures long-term financial stability, making the UK a top choice for IMGs seeking career success and financial security.
In this article, we compare the salaries, benefits, and work-life balance for consultants in the UK with countries like Romania, Spain, Italy, Lithuania, Germany, the Czech Republic, Croatia, and Poland, where IMG Connect frequently recruits doctors.
So, first, let’s talk about the United Kingdom...
United Kingdom/NHS
Romania
Spain
Italy
Lithuania
Germany
Czech Republic
Croatia
Poland
Key Advantages of the UK for Medical Consultants:
The UK stands out as one of the top destinations in Europe for medical specialists or consultants, offering a healthy mix of competitive salaries, excellent work-life balance, and one of the most generous pension schemes available.
Compared to countries such as Romania, Poland, Croatia, and Lithuania, the UK provides significantly higher earnings, better career development opportunities, and a more advanced healthcare infrastructure. Even when compared to high-paying countries like Germany, the UK’s balance of professional satisfaction, work-life harmony, and pension security makes it a compelling choice.
For international medical graduates seeking both career success and confidence in their long-term financial stability, the UK remains a top-tier option.
If you're interested in finding out how much a consultant's take-home pay in the UK would be, click here for more information.
An NHS hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
Full or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.
The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.
Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes it an exciting place to live and work.
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including:
An NHS Trust in the South West of England is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Oncology with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants, senior nursing staff, and a multidisciplinary team, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP/MRCPath are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
At least four years of postgraduate training, including two years in a relevant specialty, and full GMC registration are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services should apply. The salary will be between £59,175 and £95,400 dependent on experience or grade.
This Trust is based in a lively city in the South West, offering a mix of urban and coastal living, with popular residential areas including city suburbs and the countryside. The region provides excellent schools, strong transport links across the UK, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities for professionals and families. The city has played a crucial role in British maritime and engineering history and continues to be a hub for innovation and creativity.
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
An NHS Trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
10 years of oncology experience in a middle-grade role and full GMC registration are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 and £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
This Trust is located in a major city in the West Midlands, offering easy access to both vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural locations. Popular residential areas nearby include a mix of city living and countryside retreats. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links to major UK cities, and a range of cultural, shopping, and leisure options. Historically, this area has played a vital role in Britain\'s industrial and automotive history and is home to a number of significant landmarks.
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
An NHS Trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
10 years of oncology experience in a middle-grade role and full GMC registration are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower GI should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 and £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
This Trust is located in a major city in the West Midlands, offering easy access to both vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural locations. Popular residential areas nearby include a mix of city living and countryside retreats. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links to major UK cities, and a range of cultural, shopping, and leisure options. Historically, this area has played a vital role in Britain\'s industrial and automotive history and is home to a number of significant landmarks.
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
A leading NHS hospital in South West England is looking for a Consultant in Histopathology with an interest in general histopathology and non-gynae cytology, with opportunities to develop a special interest. The Histopathology department consists of a team of highly experienced consultants, supported by middle-grade doctors. This Histopathology job is open to both international and UK-based applicants, though those with FRCPath or equivalent qualifications are particularly encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
FRCPath or equivalent qualification and CCT within 6 months of interview (or international equivalent) with experience in general histopathology and non-gynae cytology are required for this role, and The salary will be between the standard NHS Consultant pay scale, with salary dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND
This hospital is located in a thriving town in South West England, offering urban living with access to quieter rural surroundings. The region provides excellent schools, strong transport links to major cities, and a variety of recreational activities, including beaches, national parks, and cultural festivals.
Historically, the area is known for its medieval landmarks, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent location for both professional and personal life.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including: