SEHA Visa Screening: Complete Guide to UAE Health Requirements

Reading time: 12 minutes

Table of Contents

• Introduction to SEHA Visa Screening
• Essential Health Requirements
• The Screening Process Explained
• SEHA Screening Centers and Locations
• Costs and Payment Options
• How to Prepare for Your Screening
• Understanding Your Results
• Common Challenges and Solutions
• Your Health Clearance Roadmap
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction to SEHA Visa Screening

Standing at the threshold of your UAE journey, that medical screening might seem like just another bureaucratic hurdle. Let’s be honest—nobody particularly enjoys medical tests, paperwork, and waiting rooms. But here’s the reality: understanding SEHA visa screening isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s your first step toward building a secure life in the Emirates.

SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Company) operates the official screening centers that determine whether you meet the health requirements for residency in the UAE. These aren’t arbitrary tests—they’re designed to safeguard public health while ensuring you’re fit for work and life in your new home.

As Dr. Khalid Al Marzouqi, Director of the Preventive Medicine Department at the UAE Ministry of Health, explains: “The medical fitness screening program represents one of the UAE’s primary defenses against communicable diseases, while also ensuring expatriates can contribute positively to society without undue health burdens.”

What happens if you ignore these requirements? The consequences range from visa rejection to legal complications and potential deportation if certain conditions are discovered later. This isn’t meant to alarm you—rather, it highlights why approaching this process with informed preparation matters.

Essential Health Requirements

The UAE maintains specific health standards for residency visa approval. Understanding these requirements before your screening can save you time, money, and potential disappointment.

Mandatory Screening Tests

All visa applicants must undergo the following examinations:

• Chest X-ray: Primarily screens for pulmonary tuberculosis
• Blood tests: Screens for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis
• General physical assessment: Basic health check including blood pressure, height, and weight

For certain occupational categories, additional tests are mandatory:

• Food handlers: Must undergo stool tests for parasites and bacteria
• Healthcare workers: Additional Hepatitis C testing and vaccination verification
• Nannies and household staff: Expanded testing panels including pregnancy tests for females
• Drivers: Vision testing and sometimes neurological assessments

Medical Conditions That May Affect Visa Approval

The UAE maintains strict policies regarding certain medical conditions. While policies evolve, these conditions typically lead to visa rejection:

• Active pulmonary tuberculosis
• HIV positive status
• Hepatitis B (for certain job categories)
• Leprosy
• Syphilis
• Pregnancy for certain visa categories (without proper documentation)

Sara M., a Canadian teacher who moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021, shares her experience: “I was initially worried because I have controlled Type 1 diabetes. I brought a detailed medical report from my endocrinologist explaining my condition was well-managed. The SEHA doctors noted it but confirmed it wouldn’t affect my residency status. The key was having proper documentation and demonstrating the condition was under control.”

Remember, having a manageable chronic condition doesn’t automatically disqualify you. The primary concerns are communicable diseases that might pose public health risks.

The Screening Process Explained

Navigating the SEHA screening process becomes significantly easier when you know exactly what to expect at each stage.

Before Your Appointment

The visa screening journey begins with scheduling your appointment. You have two primary options:

1. Online booking: Visit the SEHA app or website (www.seha.ae) to secure an appointment at your preferred screening center
2. Walk-in service: Available at some centers but expect longer waiting times

Required documents to prepare:

• Original passport
• Emirates ID (if available) or copy of application
• Passport-sized photographs (typically 2-4 depending on emirate)
• Visa application reference number
• Completed application form (available online or at centers)
• Payment method

During Your Screening Visit

A typical screening appointment follows this sequence:

1. Registration and verification: Your documents are checked, and biometric data may be captured
2. Payment processing: Fees must be settled before proceeding
3. Basic physical assessment: Height, weight, blood pressure readings
4. Blood sample collection: For required screenings
5. Chest X-ray: Quick radiological examination
6. Additional specialized tests: If required for your visa category
7. Receipt collection: You’ll receive documentation with information on accessing results

The entire process typically takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the center’s capacity and efficiency.

Ahmed, a software engineer from Egypt who relocated to Dubai in 2022, describes his experience: “I arrived at the Healthcare City center at 9 AM with an appointment. The process was surprisingly efficient—I was registered within 10 minutes, had my blood drawn shortly after, and completed my chest X-ray by 10:15. The staff were professional and explained each step clearly. I received my results within 48 hours through the SEHA app.”

SEHA Screening Centers and Locations

SEHA operates numerous disease prevention and screening centers across the UAE, with the highest concentration in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Major Screening Locations

Abu Dhabi:

• Musaffah Healthcare Center
• Al Mafraq Hospital Screening Center
• Al Ain Disease Prevention Center
• Zakher Healthcare Center

Dubai:

• Al Muhaisnah Medical Fitness Center
• Dubai Healthcare City Medical Fitness Center
• Al Quoz Mall Medical Fitness Center
• Jebel Ali Medical Fitness Center

Sharjah:

• Sharjah Medical District Center
• Al Dhaid Medical Fitness Center

Other Emirates:

• Ras Al Khaimah Medical District Center
• Ajman Preventive Medicine Center
• Fujairah Medical District
• Umm Al Quwain Preventive Medicine Department

VIP and Premium Services

For those seeking expedited service or enhanced privacy, SEHA offers premium options:

• VIP screening: Dedicated facilities with minimal waiting time and enhanced privacy
• Fast-track services: Prioritized processing for an additional fee
• Mobile screening units: Available for corporate groups and VIPs
• Corporate packages: Streamlined processing for companies with multiple employees

These premium services typically cost 2-3 times the standard rate but can significantly reduce processing time and provide a more comfortable experience.

Costs and Payment Options

Visa screening costs vary based on service type, urgency, and the specific emirate. Below is a comparative breakdown of the standard fees across major emirates:

Payment Methods

SEHA centers accept various payment options:

• Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Cash payments (at most centers)
• Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay)
• Corporate account billing (for pre-approved companies)

Many employers cover visa screening costs for their employees. Check with your HR department about reimbursement procedures if you’re paying upfront.

How to Prepare for Your Screening

Proper preparation can make your visa screening process smoother and potentially prevent unnecessary complications or delays.

Medical Preparations

• Fasting considerations: Standard visa screening doesn’t require fasting, but arriving well-hydrated helps with blood collection
• Medication management: You can take your regular medications before screening unless specifically instructed otherwise
• For females: Consider scheduling your appointment outside your menstrual period for easier sample collection
• Medical history: Bring documentation of any pre-existing conditions, especially if they might appear on screening tests

If you have existing medical conditions that might affect your results, consider these proactive steps:

1. Obtain a detailed medical report from your specialist explaining your condition, treatment, and prognosis
2. Have copies of recent relevant test results
3. Bring a letter from your physician stating your condition is stable/non-communicable if applicable
4. Translate medical documents to Arabic or English if in another language

Practical Preparations

Streamline your appointment with these practical tips:

• Documentation: Organize all required documents in a folder before arrival
• Clothing: Wear easily removable upper garments for the chest X-ray
• Timing: Early morning appointments typically have shorter waiting times
• Digital copies: Store digital versions of all documents as backups
• Mobile phone: Ensure your phone is charged for potential registration apps or digital forms

Maria, a Filipino nurse who relocated to Sharjah in 2020, shares her advice: “As a healthcare professional, I needed additional tests including Hepatitis C screening. I came prepared with my vaccination records and a letter from my previous employer confirming my health status. This preparation saved me significant time, as the medical staff could immediately verify my immunization history without needing to schedule additional tests.”

Understanding Your Results

After completing your screening, understanding the results timeline and implications is crucial for planning your next steps.

Results Timeline and Access

Standard processing times vary by emirate and service type:

• Regular service: 2-4 working days
• Express service: 24 hours (additional fee)
• VIP service: Same day in some centers

You can access your results through multiple channels:

1. SEHA smartphone app
2. Online portal (with registration number)
3. SMS notification (if registered)
4. In-person collection at the screening center
5. Through your PRO or HR department (for company-sponsored visas)

Interpreting Your Results

SEHA results typically fall into three categories:

• Fit: You’ve passed all health requirements and can proceed with your visa process
• Temporarily Unfit: Additional tests or treatments needed before final determination
• Unfit: Health requirements not met, potentially affecting visa eligibility

If your results indicate “Temporarily Unfit,” don’t panic. This often relates to unclear test results requiring verification or treatable conditions that need attention before approval.

For example, a chest X-ray showing an anomaly might require further investigation to rule out tuberculosis. Once cleared, your status can be updated to “Fit.”

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with careful preparation, you might encounter challenges during the visa screening process. Here’s how to handle common issues:

Medical Result Complications

Challenge: Unexpected “Temporarily Unfit” Result

This situation is more common than you might think. Approximately 8-10% of applicants initially receive this status, often due to indeterminate test results rather than actual health concerns.

Solution:

1. Request detailed explanation of the specific concern
2. Schedule follow-up testing as recommended (usually at the same center)
3. Provide any relevant medical history or specialist reports
4. Consider obtaining a second opinion from an approved physician if appropriate

Case Study: Rajesh, an IT professional from India, received a “Temporarily Unfit” result due to an anomaly on his chest X-ray. “I was worried this would jeopardize my job offer. The center explained they needed to rule out old TB scarring. I underwent a more detailed CT scan and provided my vaccination records showing I’d received BCG vaccination, which can cause similar X-ray findings. After review by a pulmonologist, I was cleared within a week.”

Administrative Challenges

Challenge: Missing or Incomplete Documentation

Solution:

• Use the SEHA pre-screening checklist available on their website
• Take advantage of document verification services at typing centers before your appointment
• Keep digital copies of all documents on your phone as backup

Challenge: Long Waiting Times and Crowded Centers

Solution:

• Book appointments during less busy periods (typically mid-week mornings)
• Consider centers in less central locations which often have shorter queues
• Utilize express or VIP services if your timeline is tight
• Check with your employer about corporate screening arrangements

As Dr. Fatima Al Najjar, public health specialist at SEHA, advises: “Many visa applicants don’t realize that SEHA offers corporate agreements for bulk processing. If your company regularly brings in new employees, suggest they explore this option to streamline the process.”

Your Health Clearance Roadmap

Successfully navigating the SEHA visa screening process requires strategic planning and informed decision-making. Here’s your practical roadmap to ensure a smooth health clearance journey:

Immediate Action Steps

1. Pre-screening health assessment: Before traveling to the UAE, consider getting similar tests in your home country. While these won’t replace official SEHA screening, they can help you identify and address potential issues beforehand.
2. Documentation preparation: Create a dedicated folder (physical and digital) containing all required documents plus supporting medical records.
3. Appointment scheduling: Book your screening appointment within your first week in the UAE—visa timelines often depend on this clearance.
4. Center selection strategy: Research wait times at different centers; sometimes traveling slightly further can save hours of waiting.
5. Contingency planning: Identify backup dates for rescheduling in case of unexpected issues.

Post-Screening Strategy

Once you’ve completed your screening:

• Set calendar reminders to check for results through the SEHA app
• Keep your screening receipt safe—you’ll need the reference number
• Follow up promptly if results aren’t available within the expected timeframe
• Share your clearance certificate with your employer/PRO immediately upon receipt
• Store your medical fitness certificate securely—you’ll need it for various processes

The UAE’s commitment to public health through robust screening protocols ultimately benefits everyone living and working here. By approaching your visa screening as an investment in your successful UAE journey rather than a bureaucratic obstacle, you’ll find the process much more manageable.

As you prepare for your new life in the Emirates, remember that this health screening is just the beginning of your integration into a healthcare system that combines tradition with cutting-edge technology. What specific steps will you take this week to ensure your visa screening process goes smoothly?

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I test positive for a medical condition during SEHA screening?

If you test positive for a non-critical condition, you’ll typically receive a “Temporarily Unfit” status and be asked to undergo additional testing or treatment. For conditions like tuberculosis, you may be required to complete treatment before reapplication. For serious communicable diseases listed as grounds for inadmissibility (like active TB or HIV), your visa application will likely be rejected. However, the UAE has made significant policy changes in recent years, particularly regarding HIV status, so it’s important to consult with a legal advisor about current regulations and potential exceptions if you’re concerned about a specific condition.

Do children need to undergo SEHA visa screening?

Children under 18 years typically undergo a modified screening process. Those below 12 years are often exempt from chest X-rays unless specific symptoms warrant investigation. Blood tests are usually required for all ages, though the panel may be reduced for younger children. Required documentation includes the child’s passport, birth certificate, parents’ residency documents, and vaccination records. The process is designed to be child-friendly, with pediatric-specific facilities available at many screening centers. Always check the latest requirements for your specific emirate, as policies may vary slightly between them.

Can I transfer my medical fitness certificate if I change employers?

In most cases, if you’re changing employers within the same emirate and your medical fitness certificate is less than 12 months old, you can transfer it without undergoing new tests. You’ll need to submit a transfer request through the SEHA app or website, providing your current certificate details and new employment information. A nominal transfer fee (typically AED 100-150) applies. However, if you’re changing emirates (e.g., from Abu Dhabi to Dubai) or if your job category changes to one requiring additional tests (such as moving into food handling), you’ll need to undergo new screening specific to those requirements. The transfer process typically takes 1-2 working days when all documentation is in order.

Article reviewed by Lucas Müller, Venture Capital Associate | Sourcing Tech Startups in Dubai, on May 15, 2025