When applying for family visas or dependent residency permits in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—namely Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar—one critical step is the GAMCA medical examination.
Whether you’re sponsoring a spouse, child, or parent under a family visa, understanding the GAMCA medical for family visa process is essential to ensure your application proceeds smoothly. This health assessment is designed to safeguard public health by screening for communicable and chronic diseases before a visa is granted.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything dependents need to know about the GAMCA medical exam—from documentation and booking to child exemptions and pregnancy considerations.
What is the GAMCA Medical Test?
GAMCA (Gulf Approved Medical Centres Association), now operating under the name Wafid, is the official network of approved medical centres authorized to perform health screenings for people planning to work or live in GCC countries.
While GAMCA medicals are commonly associated with employment visas, they are equally mandatory for family visa applicants, including dependents such as spouses, children, and parents.
Why Is the GAMCA Medical Mandatory for Family Visas?
The primary aim is to prevent the spread of infectious and chronic diseases across borders. Family visa applicants must prove they are medically “FIT” to live in the GCC.
The GAMCA medical exam:
- Screens for communicable diseases (HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, Tuberculosis)
- Identifies chronic conditions that may burden the public healthcare system
- Verifies basic physical wellness through blood and urine tests, physical exams, and chest X-rays
General Requirements for GAMCA Medical – Family Visa Applicants
Whether you’re a dependent applying from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, or elsewhere, these requirements remain fairly consistent.
Key Requirements:
- Mandatory Medical Screening
A complete physical check-up, blood/urine tests, and chest X-ray are required. - Online Appointment Booking
Visit the official Wafid/GAMCA portal to:- Enter passport details
- Select your country and nearby approved centre
- Make the online payment
- Download and print the GCC medical slip
- Documents to Carry:
- Original passport and one photocopy
- 4–6 recent passport-size photos (white background)
- Visa reference number or family visa copy (if available)
- GCC medical slip (printed)
- Online payment receipt
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (required by some centres)
- Aadhaar card (for Indian applicants)
- Turnaround Time:
Results are generally available within 24–72 hours, depending on the medical centre. - Report Types:
- FIT: Visa process continues
- UNFIT: Visa is typically denied unless reapplication is possible after 3–6 months
- Validity of Medical Report:
Usually valid for 60–90 days from the date of issue
GAMCA Medical for Children (Dependent Minors)
One of the most frequently asked questions relates to whether children need a GAMCA medical exam. The answer depends on age and destination country.
Children Under 12 Years:
- Generally exempt from full GAMCA tests
- May need basic health checks, such as:
- Height and weight
- General physical exam
- Immunisation/vaccination history verification
Children Aged 12 and Up:
- May undergo basic medical testing, depending on the country
- Tests could include TB screening or simplified blood tests
Required Documents for Children:
- Child’s original passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Family visa or sponsor visa copy
- Updated immunisation records or medical certificates
- Parent’s ID proof
Special Health Conditions:
- If a child has a known medical condition (e.g., epilepsy, developmental delays), additional testing or certification from paediatric specialists may be requested
Always confirm specific child medical exam requirements with the respective GCC embassy or consulate in advance.
GAMCA Medical for Women – Special Considerations for Pregnancy
Important for Pregnant Applicants:
Pregnancy alters the process due to safety concerns regarding chest X-rays.
Modifications Include:
- Exemption from X-ray tests, but:
- Must provide pregnancy ultrasound scan report
- Submit a physician’s certificate
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the GCC country’s embassy (e.g., Saudi Embassy)
What Tests Are Still Conducted?
- Blood tests (HIV, Hepatitis, Syphilis)
- Urine analysis
- Eye check-ups
- Physical examination
Booking Tips:
- Avoid the first trimester due to potential complications
- Inform the GAMCA centre in advance about pregnancy
Some countries may delay visa processing for pregnant women, so always check current embassy policies.
Step-by-Step: GAMCA Medical Registration for Family Visa
Here’s a breakdown of how to register for the GAMCA medical for family visa:
✅ Step 1: Visit Gamca Medicals Portal
Go to: https://gamcamedicals.org.in
Select your visa type (family/dependent visa)
✅ Step 2: Enter Details
Fill in:
- Name (as per passport)
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Gender
- Visa type
- Preferred medical centre/city
✅ Step 3: Payment
Pay the fee online via credit/debit card (rates vary between ₹5000–₹6500 depending on the country and clinic)
✅ Step 4: Download GCC Slip
Print the GCC Slip, which includes your reference number and appointment details
✅ Step 5: Visit Medical Centre
On the appointment day, bring all necessary documents and photos
✅ Step 6: Receive Medical Report
Log in to the Wafid portal with your reference number after 24–72 hours to check your FIT/UNFIT status
What Happens if You Are “UNFIT”?
Getting an “UNFIT” report can be worrying, but here’s what it means:
- Temporary illnesses (e.g., Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B without symptoms): Reapply after 3–6 months
- Permanent restrictions (e.g., HIV/AIDS): No reapplication allowed in most GCC countries
- You must wait out the specified ban period before attempting again
Tips for a Smooth GAMCA Medical Experience
- Arrive early to avoid delays
- Dress conservatively, especially for women
- Drink water before your tests
- Don’t carry valuables
- Ask questions—especially if you’re unsure about the process or results
Country-Specific Rules
Always verify the latest requirements from the embassy or consulate of the respective GCC country.
- Saudi Arabia: Strict X-ray rules; pregnancy exemptions must be documented
- Kuwait/Oman: Children often need vaccine records
- UAE/Bahrain: May require COVID-19 test reports in addition to GAMCA medical
FAQs – GAMCA Medical for Family Visa & Dependents
Q1: Is GAMCA medical required for family visa applicants?
Yes, all dependents including spouses, children, and parents must complete the GAMCA medical (age-based exemptions apply for children).
Q2: Do children need a GAMCA test?
Children under 12 are usually exempt but may require basic health screening. Check the host country’s policies.
Q3: What happens if I test “UNFIT”?
Depending on the condition, you may be barred temporarily (3–6 months) or permanently (for chronic/communicable diseases like HIV).
Q4: Can I reschedule my GAMCA appointment?
No. Once booked, appointments are locked. You must cancel and rebook with a new payment.
Q5: How do I book the medical test?
Visit gamcamedicals.org.in, enter your passport details, pay the fee, and download your GCC slip.
Q6: Can I do GAMCA tests at any hospital?
No. Only GAMCA-authorized centres can issue valid reports accepted by GCC governments.
Q7: Are there exemptions for pregnant women?
Yes. Chest X-rays are usually exempt, but proof via ultrasound and a doctor’s letter is required. Some countries need embassy NOC.
Q8: How long is the report valid?
Reports are generally valid for 60–90 days from the issue date.
Q9: Can I use the same report for another GCC country?
No. You must apply and test separately for each country, even if tests are similar.
Final Thoughts: Prepare, Protect, Proceed
Securing a GAMCA medical for family visa is a non-negotiable step for migrating to any GCC nation. For dependents—whether it’s your spouse, your child, or your elderly parent—this process ensures that the receiving country maintains its public health standards, and that you and your family start your new life abroad without complications.
From proper documentation to understanding child exemptions and pregnancy protocols, a little preparation goes a long way.
Need Help with Booking or Eligibility?
Our experts can help you:
- Choose the right GAMCA centre
- Understand document needs
- Assist with booking and rescheduling
- Decode “FIT” vs “UNFIT” scenarios
📞 +91 9088442186 Call us or visit https://gamcamedicals.org.in
📧 Email: support@gamcamedicals.org.in