Athens, April 30, 2025 – In a significant move to bolster Greece’s healthcare system and encourage the return of its diaspora, the Greek Health Ministry has introduced a regulation to automatically recognize medical specialties and qualifications earned by Greek doctors in the United States. This landmark decision, announced this week, streamlines the process for Greek doctors to practice in their home country without bureaucratic hurdles.
The regulation stipulates that specialties certified by competent US authorities will be automatically recognized in Greece, eliminating the need for lengthy validation processes. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reverse the “brain drain” and attract skilled professionals back to Greece.
On April 28, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis engaged with Greek doctors in the US and their colleagues in Greece through in-person and virtual discussions, highlighting the government’s commitment to this reform. “This is a pivotal step to make Greece an attractive destination for our talented doctors abroad,” Mitsotakis stated, emphasizing the importance of their expertise in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.
The ministerial decision formalizing the recognition of US-acquired medical qualifications is expected to be signed in the coming days. Additionally, a legislative regulation addressing the specialization section will be submitted to Parliament within the week, ensuring swift implementation.
This development aligns with the government’s “Brain Regain” initiative, which seeks to create opportunities for Greek professionals to return and contribute to the country’s growth. A recent study, Greece Country Highlights (July 2024), underscores Greece’s transformation into a hub for professionals, with policies designed to welcome back its diaspora.
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Photos by ANA-MPA