How to Become a Medical Doctor in Switzerland (7 Steps)
Switzerland is a relatively small but influential country in Europe. Most of its territory is occupied by the Alps, while most of the population lives on the plateau. Important economic centers like Basel, Geneva, and Zurich are located here.
Famous for its chocolate and winter resorts, Switzerland is also one of the most developed countries in the world, boasting the highest nominal wealth per adult. It is a crucial country for foreign trade and relations. This reputation, along with its beautiful landscapes and favorable living conditions, made it among the top destinations for global professionals.
It’s also no wonder that health and wellness professionals are also choosing this country in the heart of Europe. So, if you’re looking to pursue a career in the healthcare field, read the steps below on how to become a medical doctor in Switzerland.
1. Learn the languages of Switzerland
The subject of language can be a little tricky when it comes to Switzerland, as there are 4 official languages in the country: German, Italian, French, and Romansh. Don’t worry, you don’t have to learn every single one of those to work as a doctor in Switzerland, as learning one of these is enough.
Depending on the language that you choose, it’s a good idea to seek employment in a Swiss region where that language is spoken. There is a good chance that you are already familiar with at least one of these 3 languages, so the language barrier in Switzerland is not that huge compared to some other countries.
As far as requirements go, doctors need to prove that they possess at least a C1 level of knowledge in at least one of the languages, to be allowed to work in Switzerland as a medical professional. Which language is required depends on the canton that one is applying for.
2. Study in Swiss Medical Schools to Become a Doctor in Switzerland
Swiss universities are some of the best in Europe, and many people from all over the continent and beyond choose Switzerland as their destination for study. Medical students are no exception, and there are thousands of them applying to universities in Switzerland each year.
Due to admission restrictions, not everyone is accepted into these schools, and there is an aptitude test carried out each year to select the students with the highest scores. Spots in medical schools across the country are limited, and potential candidates should contact their chosen universities for further information.
As is the case with other European countries, medical education in Switzerland lasts for 6 years, the first 3 of which are bachelor’s, followed by 3 additional years of master’s education.
Click here to learn more about studying in Switzerland.
3. Required Tests and Residency
There are no extra tests or examinations after you finish medical school in Switzerland, or before starting your residency. However, if you’re from outside the EEA, you’ll need to pass the Swiss federal medical exam for your medical residency. This is the first step in becoming a medical doctor in Switzerland.
After the completion of medical studies, graduates from Switzerland or other Schengen countries can start residency here. Becoming a medical resident is much like how you would apply for any job. There are no special qualifications or grade requirements for you to fulfill.
No extra examinations are required before or after the completion of your residency in Switzerland. But if you want to continue working there after your residency, you have to take the Swiss Federal medical exam.
Want to know the best medical schools in Switzerland? Click this.
4. Obtaining a Medical License
Switzerland has some of the most rigorous processes for obtaining a medical license in Europe for both Swiss nationals and foreigners. There are 3 main ways to become medically licensed in the country.
The first is to graduate from a Swiss Medical school, after which you become immediately eligible for a residency, and then for taking the final medical exam before getting your license.
The second option is to apply for a 3-year residency in Switzerland. You will first need to pass both parts of the national medical examination.
The final option is to work for 2 more years as a resident, a total of 5 years, after which you can get medically licensed by only passing the written part of the medical exam.
After completing one of these steps, you become a licensed doctor in Switzerland, and the final step is to register with the local Cantonal Medical Office.
5. Getting a Work Visa
All citizens of Schengen countries can start working as a doctor in Switzerland if they possess a medical license. Other foreigners will also need a residence permit on top of the medical qualifications and license.
To stay in the country for longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for the Swiss National Visa. While applying for a regular Schengen Visa is possible online, you can get the National Visa at your local Swiss embassy only.
The visa application process is generally quick and easy, at least once you get an appointment with the embassy. However, take into consideration that you first need to find employment before applying for a visa. You can find more personalized info on Switzerland’s online visa system.
6. Finding Jobs as a Doctor
There are many websites where you can look for employment in Switzerland and apply directly. Another way to get your foot in the door of a Swiss hospital is by applying for an “Assistenzart” position.
You will need to pass a test and have at least a B2 knowledge of German, which only makes sense if you want to become a doctor in Switzerland. You can apply for an Assistenzart position with the Bundesamt fur Gesundheit (BAG) by sending them an e-mail.
Private practitioners are also in high demand in Switzerland, especially in rural areas. Opening up your own practice is fairly straightforward, and being licensed to work as a medical professional in Switzerland is the only requirement you need to meet.
Note that your local language skills are very crucial, particularly for rural areas ideal for private practitioners. Fortunately, many public and private institutions in Switzerland offer language courses.
7. How Foreign-trained doctors can work in Switzerland
All foreign-trained doctors with a degree from an EEA member country can start working in Switzerland using the license that they obtained in their home country. This is true considering you meet the language requirements.
You will also need to register for a permit from the Cantonal Medical Office (KAZA) in the canton where you want to move in. For example, if you wish to work in Zurich, you’ll need to apply to the local Health Administration.
The process for doctors from outside the EEA is a little more complicated, as this requires sorting out work visas and finding employment in a Swiss hospital. They will also need to pass the Swiss Federal medical exam to start working in the country as medical professionals, in addition to getting a permit from the local canton.
Switzerland is a highly developed and desirable country where you can make the most out of your career in a robust healthcare system. With these steps, becoming a doctor in Switzerland is certainly achievable. If you’re also looking to pursue your studies in the most cost-effective way possible, click here to see the most affordable universities in Switzerland.
I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Europe Scholarships Page.