Settling in the UAE? Your Essential Checklist After Getting Your Visa
April 16, 2025
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So, you're embarking on your UAE adventure? Fantastic! While securing your visa is the first big step, understanding the essential paperwork that comes after is crucial for settling in smoothly. Think of Emirates ID, mandatory medical tests, and health insurance as the cornerstones of your residency here, especially in Dubai. Whether you're coming for studies, medical treatment, or general residency, these elements are vital for establishing your legal status. This guide will walk you through navigating these three critical requirements based on official processes, ensuring you're well-prepared.
Why are Emirates ID, Medical Tests & Insurance Mandatory?
You might wonder why these extra steps are necessary. Well, each serves a distinct and important purpose within the UAE's system. The Emirates ID acts as your official identification card, granting access to countless essential services. The mandatory medical testing is primarily about protecting public health by screening for specific communicable diseases before residency is granted. Lastly, health insurance ensures everyone has access to necessary healthcare and provides financial protection against unexpected medical costs. Together, they form a key part of the legal framework for residency in the UAE.
Decoding the Emirates ID: Your Essential UAE Identity Card
Let's talk about the Emirates ID. This is the mandatory identification document for absolutely everyone living here – citizens and residents alike – issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) 
[1]
[4]
[5]
[21]
[22]. Honestly, you can't do much without it! It's your primary proof of identity and legal residency, required for everything from opening a bank account and renting an apartment (Ejari registration) to setting up utilities (DEWA), accessing healthcare, getting a driving license, and even using airport eGates [1][4]
[7][21][22]. All residents, including expats on various visa types, need one [1][4][21][22].
The application process is usually tied into your residence visa application [1][4]
[35]. You'll typically start the process at an accredited typing center or an Amer center (if you're in Dubai) when you apply for your visa [1][4]. Online applications via the ICP website or their app are also sometimes possible [4][5]
[13][21][35]. You'll need your original passport, your visa or entry permit details, and a specific passport-style photo [4][21]
[33][35]. If applying for a child under 15, bring their original birth certificate too [4][35]. Fees depend on your visa's validity, generally AED 100 per year plus service fees (around AED 40-70 depending on where you apply) [1][4][5][21][35]. Expect costs around AED 170 for a one-year validity or AED 270 for two years [4].
Next up is biometrics – fingerprints and a photo – at an ICP or EIDA center; you'll usually get an SMS telling you where and when to go after submitting your application [4][5][21][22][35]. Once your residence visa is stamped and the ID is processed (allow 5-10 business days), you'll get another SMS [4][35]. You can then collect your shiny new card from a designated post office or have it delivered [4][22][35]. Need it faster? An urgent "Fawri" service is available for an extra AED 150, often getting it done in 24 hours, mainly for renewals or replacements [4][5]. The card holds your unique 15-digit ID number and personal data on a secure chip [4]. Remember to update it if your details change and renew it within 30 days of expiry (usually tied to your visa renewal) to avoid fines [1][5][21][22].
Mandatory Medical Fitness Test: What to Expect
Alright, let's tackle the medical fitness test. This is a compulsory health screening for all expatriates aged 18 and over applying for a new residence visa or renewing an existing one 
[2][7]
[14]
[16]
[30]
[31]. Its main goal is public health protection by checking for certain communicable diseases [14][16]
[23][30]. Passing this test is non-negotiable for getting your residence visa stamped [2][7][14][31].
So, what does the test actually involve? Primarily, it includes a blood test screening for HIV, Hepatitis B, Syphilis, and sometimes Hepatitis C and Leprosy [2][14][16][23]
[37]
[40]. You'll also have a chest X-ray to check for Tuberculosis (TB) [2][14][16][23][37][40]. Heads up: if you're pregnant, you must declare it, as the X-ray isn't safe for the baby [14][37]. There might be a quick physical check-up, and certain categories, like female domestic workers, may also need a pregnancy test [14][16][23][40].
You'll need to go to a government-approved medical fitness center [16][31]. In Dubai, these are run by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), with popular locations like Al Nahda or JLT [2]
[29][31]. Elsewhere, centers fall under the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) or local health bodies [2][30]. The process usually starts with filling out an application, often at a typing center or online, before registering at the center [2][23][29][30]. Bring your original passport, entry permit/visa copy, photos, and your Emirates ID application form or existing card if renewing [2][29][30].
Fees for the standard test hover around AED 250-360, but faster options (results in 4, 24, or 48 hours) are available for a higher price [2][31]. After paying, you'll proceed for the blood draw and X-ray [2][14][23]. Results typically take 24-48 hours for standard service, and you'll get notified by SMS/email [29][30][31]. The results are sent electronically to the immigration authorities [2][30]. Some jobs (like nannies, salon workers, healthcare staff) require Hepatitis B vaccination, adding a small fee unless you can prove prior vaccination [2][30][37]. Unfortunately, failing the test due to conditions like HIV or active TB usually means visa denial or cancellation and potential deportation [40].
Health Insurance: A Must-Have for UAE Residents
Now, onto health insurance. Is it mandatory? Absolutely, yes, especially in Dubai, thanks to Law No. 11 of 2013 
[11]
[24]
[25]
[32]. This law ensures everyone living in the emirate has access to essential healthcare [11][24]. And here's a crucial update: starting January 1, 2025, this mandate extends nationwide, covering private sector employees and domestic workers in all emirates 
[12]
[15]. This brings Sharjah, Ajman, UAQ, RAK, and Fujairah in line with Dubai and Abu Dhabi [12][15].
Who foots the bill? For employees, the responsibility lies squarely with the employer, who must provide at least a basic plan and cannot deduct the premium cost from your salary [11][12][15][24]. If you're sponsoring dependents (like your family or domestic staff), you are responsible for arranging their compliant health insurance coverage [11]
[20][25]. You'll need to show proof of valid insurance to get a new residence visa issued or an existing one renewed; it's checked during the process [11][12][15][24][33]. Skipping this can lead to hefty fines and visa refusal or non-renewal [11][25][32].
In Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) sets the rules, including the minimum required coverage known as the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) [11][12]
[27][32]. This basic plan covers essentials like emergency care, inpatient/outpatient services, diagnostics, and maternity care, though often with co-payments and network restrictions [12][27][32]. Insurance is also mandatory for certain visitor visas, like the medical treatment visa, and highly recommended for all tourists 
[3]
[8]
[9][11]
[19]. The new nationwide rule means employers across the UAE must now purchase basic health insurance (initially around AED 320 per year per worker) for residency issuance/renewal [12][15].
How These Requirements Apply to Special Visas
How do these three pillars – ID, medical, insurance – fit in if you're coming on a specific visa like for medical treatment or study? Let's break it down.
Medical Treatment Visas:
If you're entering the UAE for medical care, you'll need specific documents like a medical report from the UAE hospital sponsoring your visit [3]
[6][8][9]
[39]. Crucially, proof of valid health insurance covering your stay is mandatory during the application itself [3][6][8][9]. Since this is typically a visit permit, not a full residence visa, the standard Emirates ID registration and mandatory medical fitness test usually don't apply unless you were to convert your status later.
Student Visas:
For students pursuing education here, you'll need your acceptance letter and attested academic credentials to get started 
[10]
[17]
[18]
[36]
[38]. Once you arrive on an initial entry permit arranged by your institution, the process for obtaining your Student Residence Visa kicks in [17][33]. This is when the mandatory medical fitness test and the Emirates ID application become required steps [7][17][33][38]. You'll also need to provide proof of valid health insurance coverage for your student residence visa to be finalized 
[26][33]
[34][38]. Outstanding students might even qualify for longer-term Golden Visas [10]
[28][34][38]
[41].
Integrating ID, Medical & Insurance into Your Visa Timeline
So, how does this all fit together chronologically? Generally, the sequence looks something like this:
1.
Apply for and receive your initial visa or entry permit.
2.
Enter the UAE.
3.
Almost immediately, initiate your Emirates ID application and go for your mandatory medical fitness test.
4.
Ensure you have secured the required health insurance coverage.
5.
Submit your passed medical results and proof of insurance, and complete your Emirates ID biometrics appointment to get your final residence visa stamped.
Getting your Emirates ID, passing the medical test, and securing health insurance are non-negotiable steps for a smooth residency journey in the UAE. Staying informed about the specific requirements, especially with updates like the nationwide insurance mandate from 2025, is key. Always double-check the latest details on the official websites of ICP, DHA, and MOHAP to ensure you have the most current information for your situation.
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