Obtaining a residence visa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) opens doors to exciting opportunities in this dynamic nation. But before you can explore all the UAE has to offer, there’s one crucial step: the medical test for visa.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about health conditions for UAE residence visas, including the diseases screened for and the application process for the medical test. By understanding these requirements, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.
Health Requirements for UAE Residence Visa Applicants
The UAE prioritises public health and requires all residence visa applicants to undergo a medical fitness exam. This ensures you are free from certain communicable diseases that could pose a risk to the community.
Let’s break down the specific health conditions tested for:
- Mandatory for All Applicants: HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis (TB).
- Additional Tests for Specific Professions: Workers in childcare, domestic service, food handling, beauty services, and health clubs will also be screened for Syphilis and Hepatitis B.
- Pregnancy Test: Female domestic workers must take a pregnancy test.
- TB Chest X-ray: While Dubai doesn’t require a chest X-ray for initial applications, Abu Dhabi does. All residence visa renewals now include TB screening nationwide. If you have TB scars, active TB, or drug-resistant TB, you may receive a conditional health certificate and a one-year visa to receive treatment within the UAE.
Step by Step Guide To Apply for UAE Medical Test for Visa
Obtaining a medical fitness certificate is a crucial step in securing your UAE residence visa. Here’s a breakdown of the application process:
Register and Login:
Head to the official UAE government portal (https://fitness.ehs.gov.ae/OnlinePortal/en/Misc/General/Inquiry). If you’re a first-time user, create an account with a username and password. Existing users can simply log in.
Prepare the Application Form
Locate and print the “smart form” for the medical fitness exam. You can do this at a printing centre or access it electronically through the e-services platform.
Settle the Fees
Pay the required fees for the medical fitness exam. You can do this at the printing centre where you retrieved the form or electronically through the system.
Gather Your Documents
Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, visa application form (if applicable), and the completed medical examination form.
Visit the Medical Center
Locate a government-approved preventive medicine centre or examination centre for residency visas. Present your documents for verification.
Complete the Medical Tests
Follow the centre’s instructions to undergo the required tests, which may include a chest X-ray (depending on the emirate), blood tests, and a physical examination (if needed).
Receive Results Electronically
The medical centre will notify you of your results by email and SMS. These results will also be submitted to the relevant government authorities.
Access and Print Your Certificate
You will be provided with an electronic link to access and print your medical examination results.
Obtain the Original Certificate (Optional)
While the electronic copy is sufficient for most purposes, you can request the original medical examination certificate to be delivered to you via Empost courier services (charges may apply).
Documents Needed for Your Medical Test Exam For Visa
Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything ready for your medical fitness exam appointment:
- One Passport-Sized Photo: Make sure it adheres to UAE photo specifications (typically white background, recent, and following specific size requirements).
- Passport Copies: Provide clear photocopies of both the information page (first page) and the signature page (second page) of your passport.
- Residence Permit Documentation:
- For new applicants: Bring a copy of your valid entry permit.
- For residence permit renewals: Present a copy of your current UAE residence visa or your completed UAE ID application form.
- UAE Identification:
- For new applicants: No UAE ID is required at this stage.
- For residence permit renewals: Bring your original UAE ID card.
Eligibility and Additional Requirements for the Medical Test For Visa
Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria and any additional requirements you may need to be aware of:
- Age Requirement: You must be 18 years of age or older to undergo the medical fitness exam.
- Group Applications (10+ Workers): Companies applying for medical fitness exams for ten or more workers will need to provide delegate cards for the designated representatives.
- Vaccination Note: While the medical exam doesn’t administer vaccinations, it verifies your Hepatitis B vaccination status. If required for your profession but not received, you’ll need to get vaccinated before obtaining the final medical fitness certificate (additional fees may apply).
Medical Examination Centers
- Emirates of Dubai: Al Nahda Center, Salah El Deen Center, Ibn Battuta Center, Al Khubaisi Center, Dragon Mart 2 Center, Tecom Center, Al Baraha Smart Center.
- Emirate of Sharjah: Sahara Center, Al Khibra & Al Daqqa Center (Al Sajaa), Al Ibdaa Center; Al Taj Smart Center, Al Shurooq Center, Weqa Center, Muwaileh Center, Zulekha Center.
- Emirate of Ajman: Musheirif Center, Al Nuameia Center
- Emirate of RAK: Dahan Center
- Emirate of Fujairah: Mena Tower Center, Al Amal Center
- Emirate of UAQ: Al Madar Center
Medical Fitness Exam Fees in the UAE
The cost of your medical fitness exam will depend on your employment category and any required vaccinations. Here’s a breakdown of the service fees:
Category A – Employees, Companies & Workers (General):
- Fee: 260 AED
- Breakdown:
- Service Charge: 250 AED
- Printing Fee: 10 AED
Category B – Men Working in Specific Professions:
- Fee: 310 AED
- Breakdown:
- Service Charge: 250 AED
- Hepatitis B Vaccination Fee (if required): 50 AED
- Printing Fee: 10 AED
- Applies to:
- Hairdressers and barbers
- Health club employees
- Healthcare workers (male)
Category C – Women Working in Specific Professions:
- Fee: 360 AED
- Breakdown:
- Service Charge: 250 AED
- Hepatitis B Vaccination Fee (if required): 50 AED
- Pregnancy Test Fee: 50 AED
- Printing Fee: 10 AED
- Applies to:
- Nannies and babysitters
- Domestic workers (female)
- Nursery and kindergarten supervisors (female)
- Hairdressers, beauticians, and health club employees (female)
- Healthcare workers (female)
Conclusion: A Smooth Path to Your UAE Residency
Obtaining a UAE residence visa opens doors to a world of possibilities. By understanding the health requirements and following the application process outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient medical fitness exam.
Remember, this exam plays a vital role in safeguarding public health within the UAE. With careful preparation and a visit to a government-approved medical centre, you’ll be well on your way to securing your residency visa and embarking on your exciting journey in the UAE.
