To get entry into the UAE as a worker, foreign nationals have to go through a series of medical tests to ascertain their health and fitness status before they proceed for an employment visa. Since these medical tests can make or break the chances for an individual to get permission for the visa, it is important that one makes the right choice of clinic without fail. This is primarily because these clinics in Abu Dhabi help one pass the exam that is required by the authorities before one can apply for an employment visa
A medical examination is necessary to ascertain your health status before being issued with an employment visa in Abu Dhabi. It is important that you attend a licensed medical clinic which has the permission to issue immigration medical test reports. You can check out the authorized medical clinics with your employer.
Most countries have their own requirements, restrictions and preferences for foreign employees. At times, these visa requirements are not clear and there may be vague or overkill regulations on some visas. The best example is the UAE, which has a list of Employment Visa applicants that have to appear for a medical examination.
Medical Test For Employment Visa In Abu Dhabi
There are multiple situations which require medicals. Such as, in many cases before getting the visa; you need to get your medical checked. In other cases, you may get asked to get your medicals done during your visa extension or renewal application. It could be due to an accident or emergency health conditions of a close relative where you will be tested along with them.
Provisions regarding health conditions
In order to be able to obtain a work/residence permit, foreign nationals need to be free of all forms of communicable diseases such as HIV and TB.
In addition, the following categories of workers should test negative for syphilis and Hepatitis B:
- Workers in nurseries
- Domestic workers including housemaids, nannies and drivers
- Food handlers and workers in restaurants and cafes
- Workers in saloons and beauty centres
- Workers in health clubs
Female domestic workers must test negative for pregnancy.
The emirate of Abu Dhabi screen foreign nationals to detect pulmonary tuberculosis by a chest x-ray; however, the emirate of Dubai does not.
A new Cabinet Resolution was passed in 2016. As per this resolution, all resident expatriates while renewing their residence visas have to undergo TB screening. Those found with scars or active TB or found having drug-resistant TB will be issued a conditional fitness certificate and be issued residence visa for one year. They will then have to undergo treatment in the UAE.
Related links:
- Expatriate labour examination – Ministry of Health and Prevention
- Residence-visa medical check-up -Seha- Abu Dhabi
Medical fitness centres
Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah have several medical fitness centres. Check also medical examinations centres for residency offered by the Ministry of Health and Prevention – Preventive Medicine Department.