Career options after MBBS in Pakistan
After the house job you can train for FCPS or a university MS/MD, aim for the UK, US, Ireland, Australia or the Gulf, or move into public health, research or non-clinical work.
On this page
Staying in Pakistan
FCPS: the main specialist route. Pass FCPS Part 1, get a training post, complete 4–5 years of training, IMM and Part 2.
MS/MD (university programmes): residency programmes at universities with entry tests and similar training lengths.
MCPS and diplomas: shorter qualifications that can lead to service posts.
Medical officer jobs: government (provincial health departments, BHUs, RHCs) and private hospitals.
Going abroad
| Destination | Main exams |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | PLAB 1 and 2, or MRCP/MRCS routes; English test |
| United States | USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, OET or similar, residency match |
| Ireland | PRES or specialty exams |
| Australia and New Zealand | AMC exams |
| Gulf countries | Prometric or national exams (DHA, HAAD/DOH, SCFHS, QCHP) |
Each route needs years of planning, money and patience. Talk to doctors who have done it recently.
Non-clinical options
Public health (MPH), research, medical education, health administration, pharmaceutical industry, health tech and medical writing.
Choosing
Ask yourself what you enjoy, the life you want in ten years, your finances and family situation. There is no single right answer.
Ireland: PRES exemption for many Pakistani graduates
The Irish Medical Council recognises Pakistani internships (house jobs) that started in January 2009 or later as equivalent to the Irish internship for general registration, so many Pakistani graduates do not need the PRES exams. It is not automatic: you still apply, submit a detailed house job certificate showing your rotations and meet the English requirement. Full guide: Ireland medical registration.
Canada: Express Entry
Permanent residence usually comes through Express Entry: IELTS General (or CELPIP), an Educational Credential Assessment from the Medical Council of Canada, detailed experience letters for NOC 31100–31102 and a CRS score. Healthcare category draws accept foreign experience; a separate category for physicians with 12 months of Canadian experience began in 2026. PR is not a licence to practise. Full guide: Canada PR via Express Entry.
Guides by country
UK: PLAB and GMC · UK cost and timeline · Australia · New Zealand · Gulf: UAE and Saudi · Gulf salaries and contracts
Deciding
FCPS vs MRCP vs USMLE · FCPS first or abroad first? · MBBS to specialist: the timeline · FCPS training seats
Frequently asked questions
Is FCPS recognised abroad?
FCPS is recognised in several countries, particularly in the Gulf, but recognition varies; check the specific country's regulator.