Navigating the UAE Residence Visa Medical Fitness Test: Part 1

Country / Territory
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
The United Arab Emirates is a thriving hub that attracts people with diverse ambitions, be it career advancement, exploration or making the country their home.
However, behind the straightforward process of obtaining a UAE Residence visa lies a crucial checkpoint: the UAE Visa Medical Test.
The UAE government emphasises the health and well-being of its residents, requiring individuals applying for or renewing work visas or long-term residency to undergo this medical test.
The test aims to screen individuals for certain diseases. Medical screenings are mandatory for all expats above 18 years old living in UAE.
This three-part blog series will provide insights into the test: what the medical screening process involves, what to do if medically unfit results are received, required steps for out-of-country cases and answers to individualsβ common questions and concerns.
Who needs to undergo the medical fitness test?
All expatriates in the UAE over the age of 18 must undergo medical fitness tests at approved health centres to obtain or renew residence visas.
Additionally, some nationalities are required to undergo medical examinations in their home countries before travelling to the UAE on a work visa.
However, individuals applying for or renewing visit or tourist visas are exempt from this requirement.
What does the medical fitness test involve?
The test comprises various elements, encompassing a thorough medical examination, blood tests targeting communicable diseases such as HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis, and a chest X-ray to detect signs of respiratory conditions.
Pregnant individuals are only required to undergo a blood test and are exempt from chest X-rays due to potential risks to the unborn baby.
Where are the medical fitness tests administered?
The test must be conducted at government-approved health centres in the Emirate where the visa has been obtained.
Adequate preparation, including staying hydrated, eating light meals and getting enough sleep prior, are essential for a smooth testing experience. No fasting is required. Waiting times vary depending on circumstances at individual centres.
Additionally, please be mindful of local customs and dress modestly. Women are kindly requested to ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.
What does the medical fitness test cost, and when do individuals receive their results?
The entire process, including registration, the physical examination, blood test and chest X-ray, could be done within 10 minutes. The turnaround time for results varies based on the processing speed an applicant choosesβstandard results timing is 24 hours whereas VIP results timing is between 10 and 30 minutes.
Need to know more?
Undergoing the UAE Residence Visa Medical Test is a crucial step in the visa application or renewal process, reflecting the UAE governmentβs commitment to safeguarding public health. To have a smooth experience at the medical centre, being prepared and understanding the process allows individuals to navigate the medical test easily. For questions, please contact Senior Manager AbdulAziz Alboloushi at [email protected].
Part 2 in this series, which will be published in the coming weeks, will explore the repercussions of a failed medical test and what to do following the result.
This blog was published on 26 August 2024, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to ourβ―alertsβ―and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.
Country / Territory
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Related contacts
Related offices
Explore more at Fragomen

Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.

Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.

Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailandβs Digital Nomad Visaβofficially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)βand how you can apply for it.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.

Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.

Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazilβs Digital Nomad Visa β a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.

Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.

Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCISβs atypical RFEs citing βadverse informationβ in employment-based petitions.

Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.

Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.

Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.

Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailandβs Digital Nomad Visaβofficially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)βand how you can apply for it.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.

Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.

Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazilβs Digital Nomad Visa β a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.

Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.

Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.

Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.

Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCISβs atypical RFEs citing βadverse informationβ in employment-based petitions.

Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.