Doctor Salaries in Germany: Public vs Private Hospital Pay

Germany faces a chronic physician shortage and actively recruits international doctors, particularly from non-EU countries. Understanding the pay structure is essential before making the move.

TVöD Pay Scale (Public Hospitals)

Most public hospitals use the TVöD-K collective agreement. An Assistenzarzt (resident) earns €5,300–€5,800/month gross, progressing to €6,500–€7,500 as a Facharzt (specialist). The on-call supplement is fixed and regulated.

Private Hospital Pay

Private chains (Helios, Asklepios, Rhön Klinikum) often pay above TVöD, particularly for experienced specialists. A senior Facharzt in a private hospital may earn €8,000–€12,000/month, plus performance-related bonuses.

Chefarzt (Head of Department)

Chefärzte can earn €150,000–€300,000+ per year in major private hospitals, with a significant portion coming from private patient billing rights.

Foreign Doctor Recognition

Non-EU doctors must have their qualifications recognised by the respective Landesärztekammer (state medical association). Processing takes 3–12 months. Language requirements: B2 general German plus C1 medical German for most states.