Your Guide to Pharmacist Jobs & Licensing in Europe 2025

Pharmacy graduates who want to work in Europe have to consider the various licensure examinations of the countries they wish to work or study in.

If you are a pharmacy graduate and your dream is to build an international career, then Europe is a land of vast opportunities. If you are enticed by the excellent health care systems, competitive salaries, or multicultural environments, Europe has become a popular destination for pharmacists worldwide.

Read more for this complete guide on pharmacist jobs and licensing in Europe, along with the concepts of the UK, Germany, Ireland, Australia, and Canada.

Besides this, you will also figure out how international exams like the PSI Equivalence Exam, PEBC, and others play a role in your licensing journey.

Why Work as a Pharmacist in Europe?

Europe is an attractive destination for individuals who want to work and have a good study experience. European pharmacists are among the most respected professionals in society; they have a good level of professional autonomy, they can use the advanced medical infrastructure, and, besides all that, they have a good work-life balance.

Along with this, the fact that pharmacists are in short supply all over the world certainly means that there will be a higher job demand, competitive wages, and the ability to choose permanent residency or citizenship as a job benefit.

It is needless to say that if you are already planning to become a pharmacist in Australia or register as a pharmacist in Canada, then it would be the most logical step to also consider Europe as the place to continue your career.

Understanding the General Licensing & Recognition Process

To work as a pharmacist in Europe, pharmacists from abroad usually have to go through a recognition of qualifications process, for which they might need to:

• Confirm and evaluate pharmacy degrees

• Take language proficiency tests (generally the official language)

• Pass professional licensure exams (For instance, PSI Equivalence Exam in Ireland)

• Participate in internships

• Register with the national pharmacy councils or pharmacy boards

The process is different in each country because their pharmacy regulatory body is different.

Country-Wise Registration Processes

Australia

For becoming a pharmacist in Australia, foreign graduates need to complete the Pharmacist Stream of the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC), which consists of:

• Document and pharmacist qualifications Australia evaluation

• Clear the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) exam

• Demonstrating English language competence (IELTS/PTE)

• Visa application

• Provisional registration with AHPRA

• Supervised practice (Internship)

• Intern Pharmacist Written Exam

It is a complicated process, but we can help. At Elite Expertise, we have an OPRA exam preparation course to help you become pharmacist in Australia.

This is the same process to get New Zealand pharmacist jobs; you will have to clear the New Zealand Pharmacy Legislation course, except that there are no intern examinations. You will have to register with the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand once all process and exams is completed.

United Kingdom

Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) is obligatory for those who want to work as pharmacists in the UK. The main steps are:

• Having a pharmacy degree approved by the GPhC

• Complete Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme (OSPAP) degree

• One-year foundation training program (internship)

• Passing the GPhC Registration Assessment

Ireland

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) is the body responsible for licensing pharmacists in Ireland. Non-EU trained pharmacists must:

• Request recognition of their qualifications

• Register for the PSI TCQR process

• Pass the PSI Equivalence Exam through TCQR

• Register with the PSI

Canada

The route to studying pharmacy in Canada is regulated by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). Steps include:

• Enrol in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada

• Educational Credential Assessment

• Canada PEBC Evaluating Exam

• PEBC Qualifying Exam (MCQ and OSCE)

• Structured Practical Training (SPT) or Internships

• Provincial registration and licensing

Many opt for pharmacist training in Canada through bridging programs or postgraduate studies. The Pharmacist Gateway Canada provides a central platform for international applicants.

Job Opportunities for Pharmacists in Europe

Europe's healthcare systems are under pressure due to an aging population and rising demand for medical services. Pharmacists are increasingly being utilized for:

• Clinical pharmacy roles in hospitals

• Community pharmacy services

• Regulatory and quality assurance roles

• Research and pharmaceutical industry positions

Countries like Ireland, the UK, and Germany have active recruitment programs for overseas pharmacists. There are also New Zealand pharmacist jobs and opportunities for those who trained in Canada or Australia.

Challenges and Tips

Working as a pharmacist in Europe is rewarding, but it comes with challenges:

• Navigating complex licensing procedures

• Language barriers (especially in non-English speaking countries)

• Adapting to new healthcare regulations and systems

Tips for Success:

• Start your credential evaluation early

• Enroll in the OPRA exam, PSI exam preparation, or PEBC study courses

• Build English language skills

• Connect with mentors or networks in your target country

How Elite Expertise Can Support Your Journey

At Elite Expertise, we specialize in helping pharmacists navigate the international licensing maze. Our services include:

• Exam coaching (PSI, PEBC, OPRA [KAPS] exams)

• Guidance on studying pharmacy abroad.

• Personal mentorship from globally registered pharmacists

• Support with test prep by providing mock tests, free resources, and recorded lectures

Whether you’re aiming for Canada pharmacist registration, the PSI Equivalence Exam, or to become a pharmacist in Australia, we’re here to simplify the process and fast-track your success.

Conclusion

Qualified pharmacists are in high demand in Europe, but the situation is not without challenges. However, if you prepare well, get the right advice, and are determined, you will succeed in fulfilling your dream of working in pharmacy abroad.

Take the first step of your trip confidently—reach out to Elite Expertise now to find out the best way to register as a pharmacist in Europe and other parts of the world.

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About the Author

Radhika

Content Writer | Elite Expertise

Radhika loves all things content! With a Master's in English Literature and over 4 years of experience in digital strategies. She specializes in creating engaging content across diverse industries - including healthcare, technology, and e-commerce - always writing content that connects to its readers.

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