UAE Golden Visa for Doctors
Dubai guide

UAE Golden Visa for Doctors

حمیدرضا دری فر 3 min read 1913 views

Everything About the Conditions and Steps to Obtain the UAE Golden Visa for Doctors

The UAE Golden Visa is one of the most important long-term residency programs in the country, designed to attract and retain elites, specialists, and key personnel. Doctors and healthcare staff are among the groups specifically included in this program, allowing them to obtain a long-term residency of 10 years.

The UAE government, considering the vital role of doctors in the country's health system, especially in recent years, has defined a clear path for obtaining the Golden Visa for this group. This visa not only includes the applying doctor but also their immediate family.

Which Doctors Are Eligible for the Golden Visa?

Generally, doctors who meet the following conditions can apply for the UAE Golden Visa:

  • Possession of a valid medical license from one of the official health and medical authorities in the UAE.

  • Employment or valid professional experience in the medical field.

  • Compliance with the legal and professional requirements set by health authorities.

The authorities issuing medical licenses in the UAE include:

  • Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

  • Abu Dhabi Department of Health (DOH)

  • Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)

How to Apply for the Golden Visa for Doctors

Doctors with a valid medical license in the UAE can submit their application online. The application process varies depending on the issuing authority:

  • Doctors whose licenses are issued by federal or Abu Dhabi authorities can apply through the ICP Smart Services Portal.

  • Doctors licensed to practice in Dubai can apply through the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

After submitting the application and uploading the required documents, the case will be reviewed by the relevant authorities.

What If I Don't Have a Medical License in the UAE Yet?

Doctors who have not yet obtained a medical license in the UAE must first legally obtain a medical license.

For this purpose, their qualifications must meet the PQR (Professional Qualifications Requirements) criteria.
PQR is a standard framework for assessing the professional qualifications of doctors, developed by the UAE health authorities, and serves as the basis for issuing medical licenses.

Steps to Obtain a Medical License (Prerequisite for the Golden Visa)

  1. Professional Qualification Assessment
    Doctors can use online assessment tools from health authorities to check the alignment of their documents and records with PQR criteria.

  2. Online Registration
    Creating an account on the official platform of the relevant health authority and uploading educational and professional documents.

  3. Assessment and Examination
    If initially approved, the option to book a scientific exam or professional assessment will be available. These exams are held within the UAE and in some other countries.

  4. Issuance of Medical License
    After passing the assessment stages, the medical license will be issued digitally, allowing the doctor to legally practice in the UAE.

After obtaining this license, the opportunity to apply for the Golden Visa becomes available.

Related Costs

Costs may vary depending on the issuing authority and the applicant's conditions, but generally include the following:

  • Cost of applying for a medical license: approximately 100 AED.

  • Cost of issuing a medical license: approximately 2,600 AED (usually valid for two years).

Costs related to the Golden Visa are calculated separately based on the residency issuance and review stage.

Benefits of the Golden Visa for Doctors

  • Long-term residency of 10 years.

  • Ability to sponsor family members.

  • No dependency of residency on an employer.

  • Long-term residency and job stability.

  • Opportunity for professional planning and investment in the UAE.

Final Summary

The UAE Golden Visa for doctors is one of the best pathways to obtaining long-term residency in this country. Doctors who have a valid medical license or are eligible to obtain one can take advantage of this opportunity to stabilize their professional and living situation in the UAE. Adhering to legal steps, aligning with PQR criteria, and applying through official channels are key to the success of this process.