If you’re applying for a UAE employment visa, residence visa, family sponsorship, or visa renewal, one requirement you cannot skip is the medical fitness test. Passing this screening is mandatory before your residence visa can be issued or renewed.
This guide explains the medical test process for UAE visa applications, including who must take it, what tests are required, approved centers, costs, processing time, exemptions, and common reasons for rejection.
Why Is the UAE Visa Medical Test Mandatory?
The UAE conducts medical screening to protect public health and prevent the spread of communicable diseases. With one of the largest expatriate populations in the world, health clearance ensures long-term residents meet national health standards.
The process is regulated by health authorities such as:
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
- Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP)
- Emirates Health Services (EHS)
These bodies approve medical centers, regulate procedures, and issue official medical fitness certificates.
Who Needs to Undergo the Medical Test?
Medical testing is mandatory for most long-term residency categories.
| Visa Type | Medical Test Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa | Yes | Mandatory for all expatriate workers |
| Residence Visa | Yes | Required for applicants aged 18+ |
| Student Visa | Yes | International students must be screened |
| Family Visa (18+) | Yes | Adult dependents require testing |
| Family Visa (Under 18) | No | Minors are exempt |
| Golden Visa | Yes | Required for long-term residency |
| Investor/Partner Visa | Yes | Business categories require clearance |
| Tourist/Visit Visa | No | Short-term visas are exempt |
| Visa Renewal | Yes | Required at every renewal cycle |
Two-Phase Medical Testing (For Certain Nationalities)
Applicants from certain countries may undergo:
Phase 1: Pre-Departure Testing (GAMCA / Wafid System)
Applicants from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines must complete a pre-departure medical test at approved centers.
- Conducted through the Wafid system
- Must be completed before visa issuance
- Report validity: 3 months
Phase 2: Post-Arrival Testing in UAE
Even after pre-departure testing, applicants must complete the UAE medical screening after arrival for final residency approval.
What Medical Tests Are Required?
Core Tests (Mandatory for All Applicants 18+)
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chest X-ray | Detect Tuberculosis (TB) |
| Blood Test | HIV screening |
| Hepatitis B & C | Required for specific professions |
| Syphilis | Required for certain job categories |
| Physical Examination | General health assessment |
Additional Tests by Profession
Some occupations require extra screenings:
- Food handlers: Stool test for parasites, Hepatitis A
- Healthcare workers: Full vaccination verification (Hepatitis B), additional STD screening
- Domestic workers & salon staff: Pregnancy test (female applicants), skin infection check
- Childcare providers: Immunity screening
Policy Update: Tuberculosis (TB) Screening
Recent regulatory changes allow greater flexibility for residency renewals involving tuberculosis cases.
- Residents renewing visas may receive treatment instead of automatic deportation if diagnosed with active TB.
- First-time applicants with active TB, HIV, Hepatitis C, or leprosy are generally declared medically unfit.
Always verify updated regulations with official health authorities.
Step-by-Step Medical Test Process in the UAE
Step 1: Book an Appointment
Appointments can be booked via:
- DHA portal (Dubai)
- SEHA portal (Abu Dhabi)
- EHS Preventive Medicine Centers (other emirates)
Your employer’s PRO often manages this step.
Step 2: Required Documents
Bring the following:
- Original passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Entry permit copy
- Emirates ID application form (or existing ID for renewal)
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- UAE Pass (if available)
Step 3: Undergo the Medical Examination
The process usually takes 15–30 minutes and includes:
- Digital registration
- Blood sample collection
- Chest X-ray
- Physical checkup (vital signs, BMI, heart and lungs)
- Additional tests (if required)
Step 4: Receive Results
Results are transmitted electronically to immigration authorities.
| Service Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | 24–48 hours |
| Fast-Track | 6–12 hours |
| VIP/Smart | 30 minutes – 2 hours |
Once declared “Fit,” you can proceed with Emirates ID biometrics and visa stamping.
Approved Medical Centers in UAE
Only government-approved centers are valid. Reports from unlicensed clinics are rejected.
Dubai
- DHA Medical Fitness Centers
- Smart Salem Centers
- Airport Medical Center
- Hatta Hospital
Abu Dhabi
- SEHA Health Screening Centers
Other Emirates
- EHS Preventive Medicine Centers (Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah)
Always verify approval before visiting.
Medical Test Costs
Costs vary by emirate and service level.
| Service | Estimated Cost (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 250 – 350 | 24–48 hours |
| Female/Domestic Workers | 350 – 400 | 24–48 hours |
| Fast-Track | 450 – 550 | 6–12 hours |
| VIP/Smart | 500 – 750 | 30 minutes – 2 hours |
Additional tests may incur extra fees.
Who Pays?
- For employment visas: Employer is legally required to cover the cost.
- For family sponsorship and renewals: The individual typically pays.
How to Check Medical Test Status
You can track your results through:
- DHA website (Dubai)
- SEHA portal (Abu Dhabi)
- ICP Smart Services portal (other emirates)
- Wafid portal (for GAMCA applicants)
Medical fitness certificates are usually valid for 90 days.
Common Reasons for Medical Test Failure
Applicants may be declared medically unfit due to:
- Positive HIV result
- Active Tuberculosis (first-time applicants)
- Untreated Hepatitis C
- Leprosy
- Pregnancy in restricted job categories (domestic workers)
Failure means visa issuance cannot proceed.
Medical Test for Visa Renewals
Medical screening is required every time you renew your residence visa.
Documents required:
- Passport copy
- Current residence visa copy
- Emirates ID
- Sponsor documents (if applicable)
Cost remains similar to first-time testing.
Exemptions
- Children under 18
- Tourist/visit visa holders
- Pregnant women (chest X-ray may be replaced with alternative evaluation)
Tips for a Smooth Medical Test Experience
Before Appointment
- Ensure all documents are complete
- Bring passport-sized photos
- Confirm center approval
- Stay hydrated before blood tests
For Faster Results
- Choose VIP/Smart services
- Book appointments online
- Arrive early
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the medical test take?
15–30 minutes for the exam; results in 24–48 hours (or faster with premium service).
Is the medical test mandatory for visa renewal?
Yes, every renewal requires a fresh medical certificate.
Can I choose any clinic?
No, only government-approved centers are valid.
How long is the medical certificate valid?
Typically 90 days from issuance.
What if I fail the test?
Visa issuance or renewal cannot proceed. In certain renewal cases, treatment may be allowed before final determination.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory for most UAE residency visas (age 18+)
- Core tests: Chest X-ray + blood screening
- Cost range: AED 250 – 750
- Processing time: 30 minutes to 48 hours
- Validity: 90 days
- Required for every renewal
- Must be completed within 60 days of entry
Final Thoughts
The medical test process for UAE visa applications is straightforward when properly prepared. By booking an appointment at an approved center, carrying complete documents, and understanding the required tests, you can complete this step quickly and move forward with your residency approval.
Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition—so you can focus on starting your professional or personal journey in the UAE without delays.