Getting a residence visa or work permit in the UAE is straightforward. The country’s visa regulations are streamlined, making it easier for expatriates to get a new visa or apply for a renewal. However, a standard procedure to complete the visa process is to take a medical test from an authorised medical screening centre. Through this initiative, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) ensures the optimal health of the citizens of the UAE.
To pass the medical screening test and proceed with the visa application process, you must be free from any type of contagious disease. These include tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis B, syphilis, and leprosy. Female domestic workers applying for a UAE work permit are required to test negative for pregnancy. Only after clearing the medical test that you may obtain a residence/work visa. Foreign nationals who have had an entry permit can apply for a medical test.
MoHAP accredits various medical examination centres to conduct the process of health screening for visas. Most of these centres use smart digital technology for hassle-free and fast medical tests in Sharjah. Thousands of visa applicants apply for medical screening every year. Standing in a long queue waiting for your turn among thousands of applicants might sound overwhelming. Therefore, the medical centres use expedited processes such as online appointment scheduling and virtual token systems.
Virtual token systems or smart queue systems prevent waiting in long queues and also fast-track the entire process. Many medical screening centres also have fully digitised testing facilities that ensure everything gets completed in 15-30 minutes. You can get the reports within 24-48 hours. Once you clear the medical screening test, you may obtain your residence or work visa, provided you meet all other eligibility requirements.
Documents Required For the Visa Medical Examination
To apply for a residence/work visa medical test, you need to submit the following documents:
• A copy of your original, valid passport
• A copy of your valid entry permit
• Two passport-size photographs on white background
• A copy of your valid Emirates ID
The requirements may vary from one test centre to another and also based on the jurisdiction.
How Long Does the Medical Test Take?
The medical screening process covers three steps –
• Physical examination by a certified doctor
• Chest x-ray
• Blood tests
The entire process takes around 15-30 minutes, thanks to the advanced technology that these centres use. They work on a paperless system and leverage digital medical equipment to ensure swift and hassle-free medical testing services for all visa applicants. A virtual booking system further ensures there isn’t any waiting time and the process gets completed quickly.
In addition to medical testing, the Weqayati centres also provide comprehensive visa services such as application typing, e-visa, cancellation or change of status. They function as Emirates ID typing Centre in Sharjah as well as medical screening centres accredited by MoHAP. These additional services further help streamline the entire process and speed up your visa approval.
Conclusion
When choosing a medical centre in Sharjah, ensure it is authorised and has an excellent reputation & expertise in this field. It should provide comprehensive visa services and a streamlined process.
