Medical Specialization in Austria for Foreign Non-EU Doctors

Your Pathway to Becoming a Specialist in Austria

Austria offers a structured and rewarding pathway for foreign non-EU doctors who aspire to pursue medical specialization. However, the journey involves a series of legal, academic, and practical steps. At New Vision Internationale Studienakademie, we guide you through every phase—making your transition smooth, focused, and goal-driven.


Procedure & Requirements

1. Document Recognition & Equivalency (Anerkennung/Nostrifizierung)

First, your medical degree and documents must be submitted for recognition by the Austrian Medical Chamber (Österreichische Ärztekammer).
This includes proof of your completed medical education, internship, and relevant experience.

2. Language Proficiency

A minimum of B2-level German (some states may require C1) is mandatory to begin the recognition and specialization process.
Medical German is essential for patient interaction and exams.

3. Anerkennungsprüfung (Equivalency Examination)

If your qualifications are not fully equivalent, you’ll be required to pass one or more nostrification exams covering clinical knowledge and Austrian healthcare standards.
You may need to complete a compensatory internship (Gleichwertigkeitsprüfung) in a hospital.

📚 Pattern & Duration

  • Total Duration: 5–6 years depending on the specialty.
  • Training Format: Combines theoretical learning with full-time supervised clinical practice.
  • Exams: Final board certification (Facharztprüfung) required to become a specialist.

💶 Salary During Medical Residency (Facharztausbildung)

Residents in Austria are salaried employees with full-time roles.

  • Position Title: Assistenzarzt (Resident Physician)
  • Employer: Public hospital or university clinic
  • Working Hours: 40–48 hours/week, includes shifts
  • Gross Monthly Salary: €4,000 – €5,000 depending on hospital, region, and experience
  • Increases Over Time: Can reach €6,000 – €7,000/month with seniority and shifts
  • Post Residency (as Facharzt): €6,500 – €9,000+ depending on sector and specialty

👨‍⚕️ Medical Assistant Work Option

During recognition or preparation, work as a medical assistant (Turnusarzt or Assistenzarzt):

  • Temporary license allows hospital work
  • Monthly salary: €2,500 – €3,500 gross
  • Gain clinical exposure and enhance language skills

❌ What if Recognition is Denied?

  • Additional clinical modules or courses may be required
  • Exam coaching and German language training available
  • Alternative routes like starting as a medical assistant can accelerate approval

💡 How New Vision Internationale Studienakademie Supports You

  • Personalized Eligibility Assessment: Custom roadmap based on your profile
  • German Language Preparation: B2 to C1 with medical terminology & speaking skills
  • Exam Coaching: Simulations, mock tests & mentorship
  • Hospital Placement: Help with internships or medical assistant positions
  • Legal & Document Support: Translation and submission of all paperwork
  • Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from a coordinator or doctor

Salary Expectations

  • During Assistantship: €2,500 – €3,500/month (gross)
  • As a Specialized Doctor (Facharzt): €5,500 – €8,000/month (depending on specialty, location, and experience)
  • Additional Benefits: Public insurance, paid holidays, and opportunities for permanent residency or citizenship.
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Specialize in medicine in Austria with New Vision International Akademie's expert guidance.

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