Medical Fitness Test Processing
Overview
All UAE residency visa applicants must undergo a medical fitness test. The PRO is responsible for arranging and managing this process.
Who Needs a Medical Test?
All new residency visa applicants (employment, investor, family). Visa renewal applicants (for certain categories). Age 18+ requires full test. Under 18: no blood test (X-ray only in some cases). Domestic workers: mandatory test.
Medical Test Components
1. Blood Test: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, Leprosy (in some cases).
2. Chest X-ray: Tuberculosis (TB) screening. Lung disease detection.
3. Physical Examination: General health check. Vital signs. Visible health conditions.
Medical Test Process
Step 1: Schedule Appointment. PRO books appointment at an approved medical center. Options: MoHAP centers, DHA centers (Dubai), private approved centers. Appointment times: morning and afternoon.
Step 2: Employee Visit. Employee visits the medical center with: passport (original), passport-size photo, visa copy/entry permit, Emirates ID application proof (if applicable). Employee undergoes blood test and X-ray.
Step 3: Processing. Results processed in 2-4 business days. Results sent to GDRFA/ICP electronically. If fit, medical certificate issued automatically. If unfit, additional tests may be required.
Step 4: Medical Certificate. Certificate issued electronically. Linked to the visa application. Valid for 2 years (matching visa duration).
Medical Test Fees
Standard test: AED 320 (blood + X-ray). Express service: AED 520 (24-48 hours). VIP service: AED 700 (same day or next day). Family visa: AED 320 per person. Domestic worker: AED 320.
Approved Medical Centers
Dubai: DHA medical fitness centers, MoHAP centers, private hospitals approved by DHA.
Abu Dhabi: DOH-approved medical centers, SEHA facilities.
Other Emirates: MoHAP centers, approved private centers.
Medical Test Results
Fit Results: Employee cleared for residency visa. Medical certificate issued. Visa processing continues.
Unfit Results: Employee may be deported (for certain conditions). HIV-positive: deportation. Active TB: deportation (can return after treatment). Hepatitis B: may be allowed for certain jobs. Syphilis: treatment required, then re-test.
Re-test: If results are inconclusive, employee may need to re-test. Additional fees may apply. Processing may be delayed.
Special Cases
Pregnancy: X-ray may be deferred. Alternative tests may be used. Employee must inform the medical center.
Chronic Conditions: Some conditions may not affect residency. Depends on the condition and job type.
Children: No blood test under 18. X-ray may be required for 15+ in some cases.
PRO's Role in Medical Processing
Book appointments in advance. Ensure employee has required documents. Remind employee about fasting (not required for this test). Track test results. Follow up on any issues. Ensure medical certificate is issued. Keep records for future reference.
Common Issues
Inconclusive Results: May require re-test. Additional fees. Processing delays.
Failed Test: Employee may face deportation. PRO must handle the situation sensitively. May need legal advice.
Appointment Delays: Book early in the visa process. Consider express/VIP service for urgent cases.
Wrong Information: Ensure passport details are correct. Mistakes can cause delays. Corrections may be needed.
Best Practices
Schedule medical test early in the visa process. Use express service for urgent cases. Ensure employee is prepared. Track results electronically. Maintain copies of all medical certificates. Address any issues promptly. Keep employee informed throughout the process.