MBBS Doctor Salary in Canada in 2026

In 2025, doctors in Canada earn between CA$156K (₹95L) and CA$870K (₹5.3Cr), with family physicians averaging CA$200K–CA$340K (₹1.2Cr–₹2Cr) and specialists like surgeons and cardiologists making much more. 

Top Highlights of Doctor Salaries in Canada: 

• Average Salary (All Doctors): CAD 200,000+ per year ( ₹1.26 crore) 
• Entry-Level Salary: Around CAD 120,000 per year ( ₹75.6 lakh) 
• Top-Earning Specializations: Cardiology, Surgery, Neurology, and Anesthesiology 
• Best Paying Provinces: Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia 

In this guide, you’ll cover detailed insights on doctor salaries in Canada, from pay by specialization, province, and experience level to Indian doctor earnings, licensing steps, and proven ways to boost your medical income.   

Doctor Salary in Canada by Specialization 

Specialists in Canada earn significantly more than general physicians, thanks to higher patient fees, advanced training, and demand for technical expertise. 

Notes: 

• The wide ranges reflect differences in specialization, experience, and province. 
• “Specialist” means a doctor with advanced training beyond general practice. 
• These figures are pre-tax and may exclude bonuses or private practice income. 

Planning to pursue MBBS before starting your doctor’s journey in Canada? Check out: MBBS in Canada: Everything You Need to Know 

Doctor Salary in Canada by Province 

Doctor salaries in Canada vary significantly by province due to differences in population density, cost of living, and healthcare funding. Urban regions often offer higher pay and more opportunities, while rural areas may include incentives to attract physicians. 

Note: Salaries may differ based on whether doctors work in private or public healthcare, the volume of patients, and geographic location (urban centers typically pay more, while rural areas often offer benefits or signing bonuses). 

Worried about the living expenses in Canada? Check out: Cost of Living in Canada 2025 

Indian Doctor Salary in Canada 

For Indian MBBS graduates, pursuing a medical career in Canada can be highly rewarding once they complete the required licensing and residency steps. After obtaining full certification, Indian doctors can earn salaries comparable to Canadian-trained physicians. 

• Average Salary Range: CAD 120,000 – 250,000 per year ( ₹75.6 lakh – ₹1.57 crore) 
• Key Earning Factors: 
• Completion of medical licensing (MCCQE & NAC OSCE exams) 
• Relevant specialization and years of experience 
• Work setting (hospital, private clinic, or research) 
• Province or region of employment 

Indian doctors must pass Medical Council of Canada (MCC) exams and complete residency training before practicing independently. Once licensed, their pay scales rise sharply, especially for specialists and surgeons working in high-demand areas. 

Planning to start your medical career? Check out the top medical courses in Canada. 

Requirements to Work as an MBBS Doctor in Canada 

To practice as an MBBS doctor in Canada, international medical graduates (IMGs), including those from India, must complete a structured licensing and certification pathway to ensure their qualifications meet Canadian healthcare standards. 

Key Steps in the Licensing Process: 

1. Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Exams (MCCQE I & II): 
2. Assess medical knowledge and clinical decision-making. 
3. Required for eligibility in residency programs. 
4. Residency Placement via CaRMS (Canadian Residency Matching Service): 
5. After passing MCC exams, candidates must complete a residency program in Canada. 
6. The duration varies depending on the chosen specialization. 
7. Licensure from a Provincial Medical Authority: 
8. Each province has its own regulatory body (e.g., CPSO in Ontario, CPSA in Alberta). 
9. Doctors must obtain a license to practice in the specific province. 

Note: 
An Indian MBBS degree is recognized in Canada only after accreditation by the ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) and approval from the Medical Council of Canada (MCC). Without these validations, one cannot apply for residency or licensure. 

Also Read: Accommodation in Canada for Students and Expats: City-Wise Cost Breakdown 

Factors Affecting MBBS Doctor Salary in Canada 

Doctor salaries in Canada can vary widely based on multiple professional and regional factors. Understanding these helps medical graduates, including those from India, plan their career growth and income potential effectively. 

Key Factors Influencing Salary: 

• Experience Level: 
  Senior doctors and specialists with 10+ years of practice earn significantly more than recent residency graduates. 
• Type of Hospital (Public or Private): 
  Private clinics and hospitals generally offer higher pay, while public sector roles often come with better job stability and benefits. 
• Province & Rural Demand: 
  Provinces like Alberta and Ontario pay more, while rural regions provide bonuses or incentives to attract doctors. 
• Years Since Residency Completion: 
  Post-residency experience impacts both salary and promotion prospects, with earnings increasing steadily each year. 
• Subspecialization or Academic Position: 
  Doctors with advanced subspecialties or those in teaching/research roles often receive additional compensation and prestige. 

How to Increase Your Earning Potential as a Doctor in Canada 

Building a successful medical career in Canada takes strategy and continuous professional growth. By making smart career choices, doctors, especially international graduates, can maximize their income and long-term opportunities. 

Proven Ways to Boost Your Earnings: 

• Gain a Canadian License Early: 
  Completing your MCC and provincial licensing requirements quickly allows you to start practicing sooner and access higher-paying positions. 
• Choose High-Demand Regions: 
  Working in provinces or rural areas facing doctor shortages (like Saskatchewan or Nova Scotia) often comes with signing bonuses and relocation incentives. 
• Specialize in Surgical or Diagnostic Fields: 
  Fields such as cardiology, surgery, anesthesiology, and radiology command some of the highest salaries in the Canadian healthcare system. 
• Pursue Additional Certifications or Research Roles: 
  Earning fellowships, postgraduate training, or academic appointments can open doors to leadership positions and higher income potential. 

Also check out: How to Get PR in Canada 2025 - Easy Steps, Pathways & Requirements 

Conclusion 

The MBBS doctor salary in Canada varies widely based on experience, specialization, province, and type of practice. Entry-level doctors earn around CAD 120,000 (₹75.6 lakh), while specialists can make over CAD 400,000 (₹2.52 crore).  

Indian doctors achieve competitive pay after completing MCC licensing, residency, and provincial registration. Salaries are higher in private practice, surgical or diagnostic fields, and high-demand regions.  

By choosing the right province, specialization, and pursuing additional certifications, doctors can significantly increase their earning potential, making Canada a highly rewarding destination for medical professionals.