Residency

Medical Tests and Health Insurance

Applicants aged 18 or over pass a medical fitness test at an approved government centre before the residence permit is issued or renewed. Private-sector employees must also be insured by their employer.

Updated October 2026 · Figures checked 21 October 2026

Age from which the medical test applies: 18²; Age from which the medical test applies
Health insurance mandatory for employees in every emirate: 1 Jan 2025³; Health insurance mandatory for employees in every emirate
Basic insurance package a year: AED 320³; Basic insurance package a year

What the test screens for

Applicants must be free of communicable diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis. Workers in nurseries, domestic workers, food handlers and staff of salons and health clubs are also tested for syphilis and hepatitis B. Abu Dhabi screens for pulmonary tuberculosis with a chest X-ray.¹

Residents found with tuberculosis scars or active disease on renewal receive a conditional certificate and a one-year residence while they are treated in the UAE.¹

Health insurance

Employees and domestic workers: since 1 January 2025 the employer must insure them in every emirate. The basic package costs AED 320 a year.
Golden Visa holders need health insurance for themselves and their family.
Remote work visa holders need health insurance valid in the UAE.

Source: MOHRE: The basic health insurance scheme; ICP: UAE Golden Residency; GDRFA Dubai: Remote work residence^3,4,5

Sources

Figures checked 21 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.

Next step

Get the Paperwork Right First Time

Golden Visa consultants, immigration lawyers, relocation agents and PRO services, in the Invest-Emirates.ae directory.

Browse the Directory 2026 Fact Sheets