In 2026, France is experiencing a severe shortage of specialists. The most in-demand disciplines are psychiatry, general medicine, radiology, anesthesia, geriatrics, emergency medicine, and cardiology. European doctors benefit from easier market access thanks to DREETS, professional orders, and an exceptional national demand.
1. Why is the demand for specialists increasing in 2026?
The French healthcare system is facing an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and an overall lack of practitioners trained in France.
- 📈 Increased hospital needs
- 🏥 Deficit in private and public structures
- 🌍 High retirement rates
- 📉 Few specialists trained each year
This situation opens up many opportunities for European specialist doctors.
2. Psychiatry: the most strained specialty
France is experiencing a critical shortage of psychiatrists, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
- 📌 Urgent recruitment in hospitals
- 💬 High demand in adult and child-adolescent psychiatry
- 💶 Attractive salaries, especially in private practice
3. Radiology: strategic and highly sought-after specialty
In 2026, radiologists are essential for diagnostics and patient pathways.
- 📈 Significant national shortage
- 🏥 Positions available in hospitals and imaging centers
- 💼 Among the highest remuneration of specialties
4. General medicine: always indispensable
General medicine remains one of the country's greatest needs. European doctors are essential to support under-resourced areas.
- 🌍 Immediate opportunities in most regions
- 📊 Competitive salaries
- 🏡 Attractive for those seeking quality of life + stability
See available positions: Euromotion offers
5. Anesthesia-resuscitation: key specialty in the hospital sector
Anesthesia is indispensable for operating, obstetric, and intensive care units.
- 📉 Massive deficit in hospitals
- 🩺 High pressure on teams
- 💶 High salaries + option for private work
6. Geriatrics: a demand in continuous growth
With an aging population, geriatrics is becoming a national priority.
- 🏥 Need in hospital services and nursing homes
- 📈 Strong professional stability
- 🤝 Suitable for doctors seeking a human environment
7. Emergency medicine: a specialty in permanent tension
French emergency services lack practitioners, creating significant opportunities.
- 🚑 High demand in all regions
- ⏱️ Demanding hours but attractive salaries
- 🏥 Ideal for those who enjoy a dynamic environment
8. Cardiology: high demand, modern equipment
Cardiovascular diseases are on the rise in France, increasing demand for cardiologists.
- ❤️ Critical need in clinics and hospitals
- 🏥 Highly developed cardiology centers
- 💼 Very high remuneration in the private sector
9. Administrative reminder for practicing in France in 2026
All European specialists must complete three essential steps:
📌 Mandatory steps:1️⃣ Authorization to practice → DREETS
2️⃣ Registration with the Order of Doctors → RPPS
3️⃣ Regional integration → ARS
Order of Doctors: official website
Administrative guides: Euromotion practical guides
10. Conclusion: 2026, a year full of opportunities
For European specialists, France is one of the most attractive countries in 2026 thanks to:
- ✔ exceptional national demand,
- ✔ competitive salaries,
- ✔ easy market access,
- ✔ a diverse and modern hospital system.
❓ FAQ — European Specialists in 2026
Which specialty pays the best in France in 2026?
Radiology, cardiology, and anesthesia are among the highest-paid.
Are the procedures different depending on the specialty?
No. DREETS + Order of Doctors are mandatory for all disciplines.
Do hospitals prioritize recruiting European doctors?
Yes, because EU diplomas are automatically recognized.
Can specialists negotiate their salary?
Yes, especially in the private sector and in under-resourced regions.
🚀 Ready to practice your specialty in France?
Euromotion Medical assists European specialists in finding a position, handling administrative steps, and settling in.
- 🔎 Job offers: see available positions
- 📘 Practical guides: start your procedures
- 💼 Find a position via: Mediirect
- 📩 Direct contact: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
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