Planning to move to a GCC country like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, or Bahrain? One of the most critical steps in your visa process might involve passing a medical examination under the GAMCA system. However, not all visa types require this medical check.
Visas That Typically Require GAMCA Medical Tests
1. Work Visas (Employment Visas)
If you’re applying for a job in a GCC country, a GAMCA medical test is compulsory. This is the most stringent category of visa screening.
Purpose of the test:
- To ensure you’re fit for the job
- To confirm you’re free from communicable diseases like TB, HIV, Hepatitis B & C, etc.
This screening protects both public health and workplace safety, and must be completed before travel, in your home country through a GAMCA-approved medical centre.
2. Family Visas (Residence Permits for Spouse, Children, Parents)
If you’re sponsoring a family member for a long-term stay or residency in a GCC country, they will also generally need to undergo a GAMCA medical test.
Key considerations:
- Screening mainly focuses on infectious diseases
- The process might be less extensive for young children
- Pregnancy tests are typically conducted for women of childbearing age
3. Student Visas / Long-Term Residency Permits
While not as common, long-term non-employment visas (e.g., student or investor visas) may also require a medical examination under the GAMCA framework, depending on the country and duration of stay.
Focus areas:
- Public health protection
- Basic screening for diseases that may pose a risk to others
Visas That Usually DO NOT Require GAMCA Medical Tests
1. Tourist Visas / Visit Visas (Short-Term Stay)
Short-term travellers typically don’t need to go through GAMCA medical screening.
No test required, but…
- Some countries might request vaccination certificates (e.g., Yellow Fever) based on your country of origin
- Travel health insurance or health declarations could be mandatory post-COVID-19
2. Transit Visas
If you’re transiting through a GCC country and not leaving the airport, you won’t need a GAMCA medical test.
Transit means staying in the international zone of the airport for a limited time without entering the country.
Important Points to Keep in Mind
Country-Specific Requirements
GAMCA provides a standardised system, but each GCC country may tweak its rules slightly. Always refer to the official embassy or consulate of the destination country for up-to-date guidance.
Post-Arrival Medicals
Some countries (especially the UAE) may require you to undergo another medical exam after arrival, even if you’ve passed the GAMCA test. This is typically part of the final process for obtaining a residency permit.
Post-COVID-19 Adjustments
Global health trends, like the COVID-19 pandemic, have made health screenings more prominent. Don’t be surprised if additional tests or documents (e.g., proof of vaccination) are required.
Final Thoughts
GAMCA medical examinations are a crucial part of the visa process for individuals relocating to the GCC for work, family, or long-term residence. However, tourists and short-term visitors are generally exempt from this requirement.
To avoid delays or surprises, always verify the medical requirements for your specific visa category and destination country before booking your travel.
