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Global Veterinary Careers have a strong network throughout Asia and work with many veterinary employers in; Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan with more employers engaging with GVC each week.
Working in Asia can be a daunting prospect, but with our knowledge on the region – we help make the process an exciting one.
Hong Kong: To work as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse in Hong Kong, you must be registered with the Hong Kong Veterinary Surgeons Board (VSB). Registration requirements include having a recognized veterinary degree, completing a specified period of practical experience, and passing an examination.
Singapore: To work as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse in Singapore, you must be registered with the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA). Registration requirements include having a recognized veterinary degree, completing a specified period of practical experience, and passing an examination.
Japan: To work as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse in Japan, you must be registered with the Japan Veterinary Medical Association (JVMA). Registration requirements include having a recognized veterinary degree, completing a specified period of practical experience, and passing an examination.
Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan
To work in any of the mentioned countries, non-citizens must obtain a work visa. The employer usually sponsors this document, and the process may take several weeks to complete.
Top tip
Contact GVC to learn more about the relevant visa processes in the specific country in which you are wishing to settle.
Hong Kong: As of 2022, the following data was taken from our salary review for veterinarians and veterinary nurses in Hong Kong:
- Average Veterinarian Salary: HKD 540,000 per annum
- Entry-Level Veterinarian Salary: HKD 420,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinarian Salary: (up to) HKD 1,000,000 per annum
- Average Veterinary Nurse Salary: HKD 180,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinary Nurse Salary: (up to) HKD 240,000 per annum
Singapore: As of 2022, the following data was taken from our salary review for veterinarians and veterinary nurses in Singapore:
- Average Veterinarian Salary: SGD 100,000 per annum
- Entry-Level Veterinarian Salary: SGD 80,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinarian Salary: (up to) SGD 200,000 per annum
- Average Veterinary Nurse Salary: SGD 40,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinary Nurse Salary: (up to) SGD 60,000 per annum
Japan: As of 2022, the following data was taken from our salary review for veterinarians and veterinary nurses in Japan:
- Average Veterinarian Salary: JPY 8,000,000 per annum
- Entry-Level Veterinarian Salary: JPY 5,000,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinarian Salary: (up to) JPY 18,000,000 per annum
- Average Veterinary Nurse Salary: JPY 3,000,000 per annum
- Experienced Veterinary Nurse Salary: (up to) JPY 4,500,000 per annum
Hong Kong: Hong Kong has a relatively simple and low tax regime. Personal income tax is calculated on a progressive scale that ranges from 2% to a maximum of 17% based on income level. The tax year in Hong Kong runs from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.
Singapore: Like Hong Kong, Singapore has a progressive tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to a maximum of 22% based on income level. However, Singapore also offers various tax deductions and credits to residents, which can help reduce tax liability. The tax year in Singapore runs from January 1 to December 31.
Japan: Japan has a progressive tax system with rates ranging from 5% to 45% based on income level. The tax year in Japan runs from January 1 to December 31. In addition to income tax, residents of Japan are also required to pay other taxes, such as local taxes, national health insurance contributions, and pension contributions.
Top tip
It’s important to note that tax laws and regulations may change over time, and there may be other taxes or fees that apply in each country. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to consult with a qualified tax professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about moving to Asia and building your veterinary career overseas.
How does GVC help vets relocate to Asia?
We have a strong network across Asia and work with employers in Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan, among others. Moving to the region can feel like a daunting prospect, but our knowledge of it helps make the process an exciting one.
We start with a conversation about your goals, match you to suitable roles, and then guide you through registration with the relevant national body, your work visa, and the offer and relocation stage, right up to your first day.
Does GVC help with licensing and registration?
Yes. Each Asian country has its own veterinary regulator and registration process, and we guide candidates through the right one as part of every placement. Whether that’s the Veterinary Surgeons Board in Hong Kong, the relevant authority in Singapore, or the Japan Veterinary Medical Association, we’ll explain what’s required and help you get everything in place before you start.
Is there a cost to using GVC as a candidate?
No. Our service is free for veterinary professionals looking for work. As with most recruitment agencies, our fees are paid by the employers we work with, which means you can access our vacancies, career guidance and relocation support at no cost to you.
How much do vets earn in Asia?
Earnings vary by country. In Hong Kong, the average veterinarian earns around HKD 540,000 a year, rising to as much as HKD 1,000,000 with experience, with nurses averaging around HKD 180,000.
In Singapore, the average vet earns around SGD 100,000, up to SGD 200,000 with experience, and nurses around SGD 40,000. In Japan, the average vet earns around JPY 8,000,000, up to JPY 18,000,000 with experience, with nurses averaging around JPY 3,000,000.
How do overseas vets get registered to work in Asia?
Registration depends on the country. In Hong Kong you must register with the Hong Kong Veterinary Surgeons Board (VSB); in Singapore with the national veterinary authority; and in Japan with the Japan Veterinary Medical Association (JVMA).
In each case you’ll generally need a recognised veterinary degree, a period of practical experience, and to pass an examination. Our team can guide you through the specific process for whichever country you’re aiming for.
What visa do I need to work as a vet in Asia?
To work in Hong Kong, Singapore or Japan as a non-citizen you’ll need a work visa, which your employer usually sponsors. The process typically takes a few weeks to complete, though the exact requirements differ from country to country. We can talk you through the relevant process for the specific place you’re hoping to settle.
How can I find a veterinary job in Asia?
Browse our live Asian vacancies or upload your CV, and one of our consultants will get in touch to discuss your options. We have a strong network across Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan, with more employers engaging with us all the time, and we match you to roles that suit your experience and goals. We then support you through interviews, registration, your visa and relocation.
How much tax will I pay in Asia?
Tax rates vary widely across the region. Hong Kong has a relatively simple, low-tax regime, with progressive rates from 2% up to a maximum of 17%. Singapore is also progressive, ranging from 0% up to 22%, with various deductions and credits available to residents.
Japan’s rates are higher, running from 5% up to 45%, and residents also pay local taxes as well as health insurance and pension contributions.
