Salary of Doctors in India After MBBS Abroad: What to Expect?

In recent years, thousands of Indian students have opted to pursue MBBS abroad in countries like Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, China, and Georgia, among others. While this route can be more affordable and accessible compared to getting into Indian medical colleges, many aspiring doctors wonder:

"What is the salary after doing MBBS abroad and returning to India?"

This blog answers that question in detail and walks you through the career journey of a foreign medical graduate (FMG) in India.

Step 1: MBBS Abroad ➡ Return to India

Once you've completed your MBBS degree from a foreign university, your journey in India begins with one crucial step: clearing the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) — a licensing test that determines whether you're eligible to practice medicine in India.

Note: From 2024–25 onward, the FMGE is expected to be replaced by the NExT (National Exit Test).

Step 2: Internship and Registration

After clearing the FMGE:

• You must complete a Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) in an NMC-approved hospital.

• Then, you'll register with your respective State Medical Council, allowing you to legally practice as an MBBS doctor in India.

Salary Expectations: A Detailed Breakdown

Here’s a realistic look at what you can earn after returning from abroad and starting your medical career in India.

🔹 1. Internship (Stipend Phase)

During the mandatory internship, you'll receive a stipend that varies by hospital and state.

• 💸 ₹10,000 – ₹25,000/month

🔹 2. Junior Resident (Government Hospitals)

After internship, many FMGs apply for Junior Resident roles in government medical colleges or hospitals.

• 💸 ₹60,000 – ₹90,000/month

• Includes night duties and emergency shifts.

Pro tip: JR experience strengthens your NEET PG or NExT PG prep if you aim for specialization.

🔹 3. Private Hospital Jobs (MBBS only)

Without a postgraduate degree, private hospitals offer entry-level roles:

• 💸 ₹50,000 – ₹1.5 lakh/month

• Salary depends on the hospital’s tier (Tier-1 cities pay better).

🔹 4. General Practitioner (Own or Partnered Clinic)

Running your own clinic or working at a private one offers more flexibility.

• 💸 ₹30,000 – ₹80,000/month (initially)

• With experience and a steady patient base, this can rise significantly.

🔹 5. After Postgraduation (MD/MS or DNB)

If you crack NEET PG or NExT-PG, your salary potential increases sharply.

• 💸 ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh+/month

• Super-specialists (DM/MCh) earn even more, often crossing ₹5 lakh/month.

🔹 6. Private Practice / Specialized Clinics

Doctors who establish a name in their field or run a successful clinic can earn:

• 💸 ₹1 lakh – ₹10 lakh+/month

• Especially true for dermatologists, radiologists, gynecologists, etc.

Summary Table

Career Phase	Salary (per month)
Internship (Stipend)	₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Junior Resident (Govt.)	₹60,000 – ₹90,000
Private Hospital (MBBS only)	₹50,000 – ₹1.5 lakh
General Practitioner (Clinic)	₹30,000 – ₹80,000
With MD/MS Specialization	₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh+
Private Practice (Experienced)	₹1 lakh – ₹10 lakh+

Final Thoughts

Doing MBBS abroad is a viable and increasingly popular path for many Indian students. But to practice in India and earn well, you must:

• Clear the FMGE or NExT exam

• Complete your internship diligently

• Consider PG (MD/MS) for long-term growth

While the initial salaries might seem modest, medicine is a profession of steady growth, reputation-building, and service. With time and dedication, both respect and income grow significantly.

Got Questions?

Thinking of studying MBBS from abroad or confused about the FMGE/NExT process? Drop your questions in the comments or reach out — we're here to help future doctors like you.