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May 18, 2022
Singapore’s world-class healthcare system attracts doctors from all over the globe. However, practicing medicine in the country is not as simple as securing a job offer. Foreign-trained doctors must complete a structured licensing process, meet strict eligibility requirements, and undergo verification before treating patients.
The Singapore Medical Council (SMC) regulates medical practice in the country, ensuring that only qualified professionals can work in Singaporean healthcare institutions. Understanding the registration types, documentation requirements, and verification process is essential for any foreign doctor looking to establish a career in Singapore.
The SMC offers different categories of registration depending on a doctor's qualifications and experience.
Provisional registration applies to newly graduated doctors undergoing supervised training. Conditional registration is the most common route for foreign doctors, allowing them to practice under supervision at an SMC-approved healthcare institution. Full registration is granted after completing the required period of supervised practice, allowing doctors to work independently. Temporary registration is issued for short-term assignments such as medical research or teaching.
Most foreign-trained doctors start with conditional registration, which requires them to work under supervision for at least two years. Eligibility depends on the doctor's qualifications and whether their medical degree is from an institution recognized by Singapore’s Second Schedule of the Medical Registration Act. More details on eligibility are available on the Singapore Medical Council’s official website (Source).
To qualify for conditional registration, a foreign doctor must have a recognized medical degree, an employment offer from an SMC-approved healthcare institution, and proof of English proficiency if their degree was not taught in English.
Institutions such as the National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore provide specific guidance for foreign doctors regarding eligibility and career opportunities in the country (Source).
Foreign-trained doctors must submit all required documents for verification before applying for medical registration.
The final medical diploma and medical school transcript must be provided. Doctors must also submit proof of completed housemanship or internship training. Medical registration certificates from previous countries where the doctor has practiced must be included. If the applicant has obtained postgraduate qualifications or specialist certifications, these documents should be submitted as well.
All credentials must undergo primary-source verification through the Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC), a system managed by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The SMC will review all verified documents before proceeding with registration (Source).
The licensing process in Singapore involves multiple steps, from securing employment to undergoing supervised practice. Foreign doctors must follow a structured process to gain approval from the SMC.
Secure a job offer – Doctors must receive an employment offer from an SMC-approved healthcare institution before applying.
Submit credentials for verification – All required documents must be uploaded to EPIC for primary-source verification.
Apply for registration – Once verification is complete, doctors must submit their registration application to the SMC.
Undergo supervision – Conditional registration requires doctors to work under the supervision of an experienced physician for at least two years.
Fulfill requirements for full registration – After completing the SMC’s required period of supervised practice, doctors can apply for full registration, allowing them to practice independently.
The timeline for obtaining medical registration varies, depending on documentation and approval speed. Verification through EPIC can take several weeks, and SMC approval may take additional time.
Doctors under conditional registration must complete two to four years of supervised practice before applying for full registration. Performance evaluations, employer feedback, and compliance with SMC guidelines influence the approval timeline.
For specialists, the registration process may differ slightly depending on whether their qualifications are recognized in Singapore and if additional training is required.
Singapore has strict regulations and high professional standards for medical practitioners. Foreign-trained doctors must adapt to the country’s healthcare system, patient care standards, and regulatory framework.
Hospitals and healthcare institutions closely monitor foreign doctors to ensure they meet Singapore’s standards. While the licensing process is lengthy, Singapore offers a stable career environment, competitive salaries, and access to world-class medical facilities.
Doctors looking to practice in Singapore should prepare their documents in advance, secure employment at an approved institution, and follow SMC guidelines closely. Proper planning will ensure a smoother transition into Singapore’s healthcare system.
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