Foreign doctors
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Finding Your First Job in Switzerland as a Resident or Trainee Physician
Before beginning your job search in Switzerland, it is crucial to have your medical degree officially recognised by Federal Office of Public Health FOPH, the Swiss authority responsible for recognising foreign medical diplomas. More information on this process can be found on their website.
While it is possible to start looking for a job before obtaining official recognition, the process must be completed, and you must have the formal certificate before starting your contract as a trainee physician. The recognition process varies depending on the country of origin, with European diplomas benefiting from an equivalence system that simplifies the procedure. However, recognition fees range from 800 to over 1,000 Swiss francs, depending on the country in which the diploma was obtained.
It is also important to note that, particularly for those applying for their first job immediately after graduation, it is common to start with a traineeship lasting a few weeks or months before securing a full trainee position. Traineeships provide an excellent opportunity to familiarise yourself with the Swiss healthcare system, even as an undergraduate. However, the financial compensation for a traineeship is lower than that of a trainee position, making financial planning essential before relocating. Additional costs to consider include residence permit fees, health and private insurance, apartment deposits, and furniture or other necessary expenses.
Where, When, and How to Start?
First and foremost, it is essential to determine which placements are necessary for obtaining your FMH title and to understand the hospital or outpatient category to which you are applying (A, B, or C). The FMH Register of Training Centres provides an official list of recognised Swiss medical training facilities. This database allows you to search for accredited centres across different cantons, offering various categories and clinical settings for medical training. The list of recognised training institutions for all specialties can be found here: link.
Several websites list job advertisements, including:
Additionally, job postings may be available on LinkedIn, so it is advisable to check there as well.
We also recommend visiting the websites of hospitals and private practices directly to explore sections such as “Work with Us” or “Open Positions.”
Submitting a Spontaneous Application
If you do not find any suitable positions in the available job postings, you can still send a spontaneous application directly to hospitals or private practices. In this case, you should use a subject line such as “Spontaneous Application” and ensure that your submission includes all the elements listed in the summary.
Your cover letter (typically one page long) should briefly introduce yourself, outline your education and work history, explain your interest in the specialty, and describe why you are applying to this specific hospital or practice. It is also beneficial to highlight any relevant experiences, such as internships, conferences, and voluntary work, to demonstrate your commitment to the field.
If you are applying for a traineeship during your studies, especially with the intention of potentially relocating later, it is important to note that you may not need to have your degree recognized or provide a language proficiency certificate right away.
Additionally, many institutions prefer in-person interviews, as they offer the chance to familiarize yourself with the institution and meet face to face. Be prepared to travel if necessary for this purpose.
- A CV in the language of the canton where you are applying
- A professional, high-quality photo
- Recognition of the degree
- Language proficiency certificate
- A cover letter (usually one page)
Language Requirements
In Switzerland, it is now mandatory to have a B2 or higher language proficiency level in the primary official language of the canton or geographical area where you intend to work. This requirement applies to all medical professionals.
Besides completing a full university degree in the relevant language, recognised language certificates from major accredited institutions are also accepted. Language proficiency can be recorded during the degree recognition process, ensuring that it is officially included on the FOPH-MEBEKO certificate.
For most hospitals, a B2 certificate is the minimum requirement, whereas some university hospitals may require C1 proficiency. It is advisable to carefully review the specific language requirements for each position.
Important: Having a foreign passport does not automatically qualify you as a native speaker. To be considered a native speaker, you must have completed your high school or university education entirely in the language in which you intend to work.
When to Submit Applications?
Unlike some countries, Switzerland does not have a fixed period for commencing specialist training, meaning applications can be submitted at any time—provided they include all required documents.
However, in French-speaking cantons, there are two main intake periods when the likelihood of being considered is significantly higher:
1st November, when turnover is at its peak.
1st May.
In Switzerland, it is common to submit applications well in advance—sometimes up to two years ahead. Therefore, it is always better to apply sooner rather than later.
Interview Process and Persistence
If your application is of interest, you will be contacted via email with an invitation for an interview—fingers crossed!
University hospitals tend to be more selective in their recruitment process. However, this should not discourage you from applying. If you are not successful initially, gaining additional work experience and reapplying in a year or two will improve your chances of being hired or at least considered for an interview.
Unlike in many other countries, applying multiple times for the same position in Switzerland is viewed positively, as it demonstrates genuine interest in the institution. Reapplying after gaining further experience can significantly improve your chances of securing a position. Persistence and strong motivation are highly valued in Switzerland and can open many professional doors. So, stay determined and showcase your enthusiasm for the field!
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We are committed to Swiss trainees. This is why more detailed information and training resources are offered in the three main Swiss official languages. If you are a foreign colleague who would like to find out more about our work or the Swiss system, please contact us directly.
