Medical Consultant Salaries in the UK vs Europe
- September 20, 2024
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
- Salary range: £100,000 to £139,000 per year, depending on experience and location. You can take a look at NHS pay circulars for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland via their individual websites, via the NHS Confederation site here, or the BMA site here.
- Additional earnings: Consultants can substantially boost their income through private practice or additional NHS work. Combined with the NHS pension scheme, which is one of the best in Europe, it doesn’t take long for UK consultants to see benefits in securing their long-term financial future.
- Work-life balance: Contrary to common belief, UK consultants enjoy a highly favourable work-life balance, with generous annual leave and opportunities for flexible or part-time work. Wherever possible, the NHS emphasises well-being and a healthy work-life balance for its staff.
- Pension: The NHS pension scheme is a standout feature. Offering a defined benefit pension that guarantees a stable income in retirement, is considerably more reliable and secure than private pension schemes or state systems in many other countries.
- Healthcare quality: The NHS is known worldwide for its equity of care, cutting-edge research, and specialist training. And, as we often highlight, it’s one of the most highly regarded healthcare systems globally, especially for its universal access.
Romania
- Salary range: €25,000 to €45,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Romanian consultants can face long working hours, particularly in less urbanised areas. However, the system does permit some flexibility and less rigidity to its staff scheduling.
- Pension: Romania’s pension system is in line with its national cost of living, but not as generous as the NHS’s, seeing lower retirement benefits and offering less job security.
- Healthcare quality: Romania’s healthcare system is still working hard to continue to develop its standards, whilst faced with significant infrastructure challenges. In comparison, the NHS offers a far more advanced system with better working conditions, facilities, and pension benefits.
Spain
- Salary range: €45,000 to €80,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Spain is known for providing excellent work-life balance, with longer vacation periods and flexible working hours. However, salaries remain lower than in the UK.
- Pension: Spain’s pension system is not as substantial as the NHS pension, particularly in terms of long-term retirement security.
- Healthcare quality: While Spain offers a solid healthcare system, notably in urban areas, the NHS excels in research, specialist care, and overall career development for consultants. The NHS pension also provides far greater retirement security compared to Spain’s system.
Italy
- Average salary: €60,000 to €90,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Italy offers a decent work-life balance, with flexible working hours, but workloads can be higher in underfunded public hospitals.
- Pension: Italy’s pension system is relatively strong, but the NHS pension scheme still trumps this by offering superior benefits, providing far greater financial security and more generous retirement packages.
- Healthcare quality: Italy has a well-established healthcare system, but it can struggle with funding issues in certain areas. The NHS, by comparison, provides better infrastructure, training, and career opportunities for consultants.
Lithuania
- Average salary: €30,000 to €50,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Lithuania offers some flexibility, but the healthcare system is still developing and growing, which can mean consultants may face heavier workloads in less advanced regions.
- Pension: Lithuania’s pension system is modest compared to the NHS, which provides stronger retirement benefits.
- Healthcare quality: While improving, Lithuania’s healthcare system still lags behind the NHS in resources, research opportunities, and consultant training. The NHS’s global reputation and robust pension scheme make the UK an appealing option for IMG’s.
Germany
- Average salary: €80,000 to €150,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Home to a respected healthcare system, Germany can offer flexibility to its consultant, though working hours can sometimes be longer compared to the UK. Private practice is more common, which can supplement their income.
- Pension: Germany’s pension system is solid, but consultants typically rely more on private pension contributions. The NHS pension scheme, by contrast, is a defined benefit system, offering a higher level of security and more generous retirement benefits.
- Healthcare quality: Germany has an efficient healthcare system, blending public and private care. However, the NHS’s focus on equitable, universal access and its global recognition for healthcare standards remain major draws for medical professionals.
Czech Republic
- Average salary: €40,000 to €65,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Czech consultants enjoy a balanced lifestyle, but salaries are outstandingly lower than in the UK.
- Pension: While the Czech pension system provides decent support, it doesn’t compare to the NHS pension, which is much more comprehensive and secure.
- Healthcare quality: Although the Czech Republic has made impressive strides in its healthcare, the NHS offers superior opportunities in research, career advancement, and overall resources, putting the UK at the top of the list for consultants looking to relocate.
Croatia
- Average salary: €35,000 to €55,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Croatia offers reasonable flexibility, but consultants often deal with heavier workloads due to the country's developing healthcare infrastructure.
- Pension: With a comparatively modest pension system in Croatia, consultants receive lower retirement benefits compared to those in the UK. The NHS pension is far more generous, offering consultants a strong foundation for long-term financial security.
- Healthcare quality: Croatia’s healthcare system is advancing, but it still has a way to go. The NHS, with its sought-after facilities, world-class training and robust pension scheme, takes the lead on the board for overseas consultants considering their options.
Poland
- Average salary: €40,000 to €60,000 per year.
- Work-life balance: Poland offers a good work-life balance, but consultants often face challenges with underfunded healthcare facilities in certain regions.
- Pension: Although Poland’s pension system is improving, it remains less comprehensive than the NHS pension scheme. The NHS offers a much better long-term financial security for consultants.
- Healthcare quality: Poland’s healthcare system has progressed in recent years, but it still falls behind the NHS in terms of resources, specialist care, and career opportunities. The NHS also stands out for its pension benefits, which far exceed those available in Poland.
Key Advantages of the UK for Medical Consultants:
- Generous Pension Scheme: The NHS pension is among the best in Europe, offering a defined benefit scheme that ensures long-term financial security. It stands far above many other European pension systems, particularly in countries with emerging healthcare markets.
- Favourable Work-Life Balance: Contrary to some perceptions, the UK offers an excellent work-life balance for consultants, with flexible hours, generous annual leave, and part-time work options. This makes the UK a coveted destination for those seeking a rewarding career without sacrificing personal time.
- Competitive Salaries: UK consultants benefit from competitive base salaries, with additional earnings possible through private work, overtime, and, crucially, the NHS pension scheme. Together, these elements ensure consultants are well-compensated both during their careers and in retirement.
- World-Class Healthcare System: The NHS is globally recognized for its high standards of care, particularly in specialist fields like cardiology, oncology, and surgery. Its reputation for research excellence and consultant training make the UK one of the best places in the world to work as a medical consultant.
Getting started
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.
Relevant Jobs
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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- The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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- Collaborate in academic and educational activities.
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LIFE IN THE REGION
The position is based in a city offering a mix of urban amenities and scenic rural living options. Families will find excellent schools, easy access to transport, and a range of leisure activities. The region has a rich cultural and historical significance.
An NHS district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCR (or equivalent) 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
FRCR, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing radiotherapy and SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast radiotherapy should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Manage a subspecialty caseload in Lung, H&N or Breast radiotherapy, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
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Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
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Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
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Lead or support the development of new services or innovations in clinical delivery within the department.
LIFE IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
This job is based in the Scottish Highlands, a region known for both its bustling city of Inverness and rural escapes like Beauly or Fort Augustus.
The Highlands offer excellent schools, strong transport links including rail and air connections, and year-round recreational options from hiking to arts festivals. The city also has a vibrant cultural and social scene for families and professionals alike.
Rich in heritage, the Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most renowned history—from clan culture to castles—making this region both a scenic and significant place to live and work.
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:
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
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 to your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS teaching hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with all interests considered. The oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP (UK) 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise and inclusion (or eligibility within 6 months) on the Specialist Register in Medical Oncology are required for this role. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Manage and treat patients with cancers as part of the site-specific MDTs.
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Provide on-call and acute cover for oncology inpatients and new inpatient referrals on a rotational basis (1 week out of 8).
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Attend weekly multi-disciplinary meetings.
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Hold an honorary lecturer position at a local medical school and participate in undergraduate teaching.
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Participate in clinical research as appropriate.
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Train and teach specialty trainees in medical oncology.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This role is based in the North of England, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in York or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful countryside on its doorstep, the North of England is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
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 to your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel Arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
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An NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers. The Oncology department comprises of a large team of Medical Oncology Consultants and Clinical Oncology Consultants, supported by prescribing Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) and rotational specialist registrars (SPRs).
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Full GMC registration and FRCR (or equivalent) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide outpatient and inpatient care for patients with Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers
- Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings for skin and urology.
- Supervise and support Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), specialist registrars (SPRs), and ward resident doctors.
- Prescribe and manage radiotherapy and systemic treatments.
LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
The hospital is based in a vibrant city offering both urban living in the city center and rural living in surrounding villages like West Bridgford. The area boasts excellent schools, efficient public transport links, and a variety of leisure activities, including theaters, sports venues, and parks. Nottingham holds historical significance as the legendary home of Robin Hood and played a pivotal role in the UK\'s industrial history.
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:
- CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
- At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
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 all the way to starting your new role, including:
- Document gathering and checking.
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable.
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements.
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Lung Cancer. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration with a license to practice and entry on the GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register (or within six months at the time of interview), CESR, or a GMC-recognised equivalent training are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Lung Cancer should apply. The salary will be between , dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Lung Cancer, including overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
- Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across hospital sites to discuss patient cases and coordinate treatment.
- Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, encouraging innovation in lung cancer and melanoma treatment.
- Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, particularly as Portsmouth prepares to launch its postgraduate medical school.
LIFE IN PORTSMOUTH
A vibrant coastal city in South East England, with popular residential areas including Southsea for urban living and nearby countryside towns such as Petersfield for a more rural lifestyle. The area is well connected, with direct train links to London, excellent schools, and a wide range of leisure activities, from watersports to historic naval attractions. As one of Britain’s most historically significant naval cities, Portsmouth is home to the famous HMS Victory and the historic dockyard, making it a fascinating place to live and work.
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:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
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:
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care