How to get a visa medical fitness certificate in the UAE
Moving to or working in the UAE often comes with one important requirement: the visa medical fitness certificate. Whether you’re starting a new job, applying for a visa, or renewing your residency, this document is essential for proving you’re fit to live and work in the country.
While the process may seem daunting at first, obtaining a visa medical fitness certificate doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide explains what the certificate is, who needs it, the documents required, and how the process works in the UAE, with a special focus on Dubai.
What is a visa medical fitness certificate?
A visa medical fitness certificate is an official document issued by UAE health authorities to confirm that an individual is free from certain communicable diseases and is medically fit for work or to live in the UAE.
It is commonly required for:
- Employment – New hires must often provide proof of medical fitness before starting work.
- Visa applications – Expatriates applying for work or residence visas.
- Residency renewals – Proof of continued health when extending a visa.
- Dependants – Spouses, children or parents may also require a medical fitness certificate, with the scope of tests depending on age and category.
Typical checks include blood tests (for conditions like HIV, Hepatitis B and C) and a chest X-ray (for tuberculosis screening).
Who needs a visa medical fitness certificate
Most expatriates in the UAE will require a visa medical fitness certificate at some stage. Common groups include:
- Expatriates applying for work visas
- Residents renewing their visas
- Certain professions – For example, domestic workers, childcare providers, food handlers, and healthcare workers, where strict health criteria apply
- Students or special visa categories
Visa medical fitness certificate for a new job
If you’re starting a new job in the UAE, your employer will typically request a medical fitness certificate as part of the onboarding process. Some professions, especially those involving healthcare, childcare, or food preparation, may have stricter requirements.
The certificate must usually be submitted to your employer before your work visa is finalised, so it’s important to have these medical tests early.
Documents required for a visa medical fitness certificate
To apply, you’ll need to bring the following:
- Valid passport (and visa copy if available)
- Emirates ID (or Emirates ID application form for first-time applicants)
- Passport-size photographs (usually two, but check the center’s requirements)
- Application form (can be completed online or in person at the visa medical fitness center)
How to get a visa medical fitness certificate in the UAE
Step-by-step process
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Choose an approved visa medical fitness center – Make sure the facility is authorised by local health authorities. Smart Salem is fully approved and authorised by Dubai Health.
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Submit required documents and application – Hand in your passport, Emirates ID, photos, and form.
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Undergo the visa medical examination – Typically includes blood tests and a chest X-ray.
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Pay applicable fees – Costs vary depending on standard or fast-track services.
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Receive your certificate – You can collect your medical fitness certificate the same day, within 30 minutes.
Visa medical fitness certificate in Dubai
In Dubai, the process is overseen by Dubai Health. The procedure is the same — submit documents, undergo tests, and pay fees — but processing times can vary depending on the center.
At Dubai Health authorised centers like Smart Salem, certificates can be issued the same day, making the process fast and convenient for applicants.
What’s included in a visa medical fitness certificate
Although the exact layout may differ, a typical certificate includes:
- Personal identification details – Name, date of birth, passport number, Emirates ID.
- Summary of tests performed – e.g. blood screening, X-ray results.
- Fitness status statement – Declaring whether you are “Fit” or “Unfit” for visa or work purposes.
- Issuing authority’s stamp and signature – Confirming authenticity.
Using Smart Salem for your visa medical fitness test
As an approved provider, Smart Salem offers medical fitness testing services that combine speed, accuracy, and convenience.
Choosing Smart Salem means:
- Quick processing – Results often available the same day.
- Accurate testing – All procedures follow DHA and UAE health regulations.
- Friendly service – Comfortable facilities designed to make testing stress-free.
- Trusted authority – Certificates fully recognised for visa and employment purposes.
Conclusion: a smooth visa medical fitness process
Obtaining a medical fitness certificate is a mandatory step for many in the UAE, but with the right preparation it can be straightforward. Remember to bring the correct documents, complete your medical tests, and choose an approved provider.
Smart Salem helps make the process efficient and reliable, ensuring you get your results quickly and with complete peace of mind.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a visa medical fitness certificate in Dubai?
Processing times depend on the center and the package you choose. At DH authorised centers like Smart Salem, you can receive your certificate the same day, within 30 minutes. In other emirates, standard processing may take 24–48 hours, but fast-track options are usually available.
Can I get my certificate on the same day?
Yes. Same-day certificates are available at Smart Salem. Choosing a premium or fast-track package ensures your results are prioritised, which is useful if you need to submit documents urgently for a job or visa application.
What happens if I fail the medical fitness test?
If you are found to have certain communicable diseases (such as active tuberculosis), the certificate may state “unfit.” This does not necessarily mean you will be deported, but it could affect your eligibility for specific jobs or visa categories. Authorities will explain the next steps, and in some cases, treatment may be required before reapplying.
Is the visa medical fitness certificate valid across all UAE emirates?
Yes. Once issued by an authorised facility, your certificate is recognised throughout the UAE. For example, if you take your test in Dubai, the document is valid in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any other emirate.
Do I need a new visa medical fitness certificate every time I change jobs?
Yes. Each new employment visa application requires a fresh medical fitness certificate. Even if your previous certificate is still valid, employers and immigration authorities typically require an updated document.
