How a Ukrainian-trained doctor can work in Greece: the full path
A Ukrainian diploma is not recognised in Greece automatically. The usual order is: degree recognition through ΔΟΑΤΑΠ, then the licence to practise from the Panhellenic Medical Association, then specialty training or a post. This guide gives the sequence and flags what we could not confirm. It is not legal advice.
What is the order of steps?
1) Make sure you have a legal basis to stay and work. 2) Pass the ΔΟΑΤΑΠ exams and get the equivalence decision. 3) Request the certificate or licence to practise medicine from the Panhellenic Medical Association (Π.Ι.Σ.). 4) Start specialty training or apply for a post. Check each step with the official body, because rules change.
Is a Ukrainian medical degree recognised automatically?
No. ΔΟΑΤΑΠ states that recognition of foreign medical degrees is not automatic, and that holders of non-EU degrees are examined in the subjects it specifies before academic equivalence is granted. We could not confirm current fees or exam dates; check doatap.gr announcements.
What do I need after passing the exams?
The ΔΟΑΤΑΠ equivalence decision, then a request to Π.Ι.Σ. for the certificate or licence to practise. The Ministry of Health lists this certificate among the documents for specialty training and for ESY posts. We could not confirm the full document list or the local medical association registration steps; ask Π.Ι.Σ. or your local association.
Do I need a Greek language certificate?
A 2017 Ministry of Health circular asks health professionals who are third-country nationals for a B2 Greek certificate, but exempts holders of a ΔΟΑΤΑΠ equivalence decision issued after exams. Check the current circular before you pay for a language exam.
Can Ukrainians work in Greece under temporary protection?
Yes. Greece says permits issued under temporary protection serve as work permits. The EU Council extended temporary protection to 4 March 2028 (decision of 30 July 2026), but the Greek page we read still showed 4 March 2027. We could not confirm the Greek implementing decision; check migration.gov.gr. New arrivals face a military-obligation check.
How do I start specialty training?
Applications go to the health region with the ΔΟΑΤΑΠ decision, the practice certificate (or its Π.Ι.Σ. protocol number) and the other listed documents. We could not confirm how a Ukrainian specialty title is recognised in Greece; ask Π.Ι.Σ. and the Central Health Council (ΚΕ.Σ.Υ.).
How do I find work as a doctor?
ESY posts are announced by hospitals after ministry approval, with about 20 days to apply and separate documents for each post. The documents include the degree, ΔΟΑΤΑΠ decision, practice licence and specialty title. Check the current announcement. We could not verify private-sector hiring rules. Iatrós can help you prepare for the exam itself with 9,388 Greek questions and mock exams.
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Iatrós is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with ΔΟΑΤΑΠ. Check official announcements for exam rules and dates. Last updated 2026-10-31. Contact: [email protected]