UK Medical Salaries: How much will you earn in the UK?
UK Doctors Salary: How Much Do Doctors in Training Really Earn in the UK?
If you're considering a medical career in the UK—or you're already an international medical graduate (IMG) weighing your options—salary is an essential piece of the puzzle. While most doctors pursue medicine out of a passion for helping others, it's no secret that financial stability matters, especially when you're moving across continents.
So, how much do doctors in specialty training (residency) earn in the UK? Let’s break it down in a practical, easy-to-follow way.
Understanding the Basics: What Is “Basic Salary”?
When looking through NHS job listings, you’ll come across the term “basic salary.” This refers to your gross annual income (before tax and deductions) for a full-time job—typically covering 40 hours per week during “plain time” (7am to 9pm any day of the week).
For those entering training roles, you’ll usually start at the lower end of the salary range unless you have prior recognised UK experience.
What Boosts the Basic Salary?
Your total income as a trainee doctor includes several salary supplements, such as:
On-call duties (especially from home)
Working in London or surrounding areas (up to £2,162/year extra)
Hard-to-fill specialties, like Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, and General Practice (GP)
Workload intensity also factors into your final gross pay. Expect your salary to increase if your schedule involves:
Working more than 40 hours a week
Night shifts or weekend shifts
Late shifts (after 9pm and before 7am)
Realistic Salary Expectations by Grade
Here’s a rough guide to what you might earn at different training levels, based on typical working patterns:
Your actual pay may vary depending on how intense your rota is and whether you’re claiming allowable expenses or opting out of NHS pensions.
Maximise and Supplement Your Income
Working in the NHS doesn’t have to mean relying solely on your contracted hours. Many doctors increase their income through:
1. Locum Work
You can take extra shifts at your own hospital (internal locum) or elsewhere (external locum). External shifts tend to pay more.
Typical external locum hourly rates:
SHO (FY2-CT2): £35–£50
Registrar (ST3+): £60–£80
However, be aware of visa restrictions—most IMG doctors on Tier 2/5 visas are limited to 20 hours of external work per week.
2. Saving on International Transfers
Using services like Wise (formerly Transferwise) for remittances can save you hundreds annually compared to traditional banks.
3. Claiming Tax-Deductible Expenses
Things like GMC fees, Royal College memberships, and exam costs can often be claimed back, reducing your overall tax bill.
Employee Benefits Matter Too
Salary is just one part of your total compensation. As an NHS employee, you’ll also enjoy:
Generous annual leave
Paid study leave
NHS pension
Sick leave and parental leave entitlements
These benefits offer a safety net that adds significant value beyond your payslip.
Final Thoughts
A UK doctor’s salary during training may seem modest compared to some other countries, but with careful financial planning, it can provide a comfortable lifestyle and set you up for long-term stability. More importantly, it's a strong step forward in a highly respected healthcare system, with room to grow your earnings as you advance.
💡 3 Key Tips for Doctors Planning to Work in the UK
Start at the right level: Understand which training grade you qualify for before applying. The higher your grade, the higher your starting pay.
Plan your locum work smartly: Make sure any extra shifts fit within your visa limits and don’t burn you out.
Track your expenses: Use tools and guides (like those from the BMA) to make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to.
Important Message
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