If you are planning to work or live in a Gulf country, one of the first formalities you will come across is the GAMCA medical test (now managed through the WAFID system). Many applicants complete the test but later get confused about one simple yet critical question about Gamca medical certificate validity:
How long is the Gamca medical certificate valid?
Its critical to know how long a Gamca medical certificate is valid because an expired report may hold up your visa stamping or, in the worst case, you may have to go through the medical process again. The subject here is to unfold the issue in a much more straightforward and practical manner so that you wouldnt get into the panic at the last minute.
What Exactly Is a Gamca Medical Certificate?
A Gamca medical certificate is the official fitness report that is given to you after a medical examination approved by the GCC. It is the document that certifies that you are in good health to be able to travel to and work in the Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Yemen.
The test usually includes:
- Blood tests for infectious diseases
- Chest X-ray
- Urine examination
- General physical check-up
Once completed, the report is uploaded directly to the WAFID portal and linked to your passport details.
Gamca Medical Certificate Validity – Exact Duration
Usually, the Gamca medical certificate is considered as valid for 90 days (3 months) from the date when the medical report is marked as Fit in the system.
This period of time is valid for the majority of the countries in the GCC. However, it is worth mentioning that:
The timer is starting from the day the medical report is issued and not from the day when the appointment was held.
If your visa stamping is not done within this validity period, the report expires automatically.
Appointment Slip Validity vs Medical Report Validity
This is where many applicants get confused.
Gamca Medical Appointment Slip Validity
- Valid for 30 days
- Used only to attend the medical test
- If unused or cancelled your wafid slip, it expires
Gamca Medical Certificate (Report) Validity
- Valid for 90 days
- Used for visa stamping
- Cannot be extended once expired
In simple words:
Slip = booking proof | Certificate = visa approval document
Country-Wise Gamca Medical Validity (General Overview)
Although the standard validity is 90 days, embassies may apply stricter timelines:
- Saudi Arabia: Usually must be stamped within validity
- UAE: Embassy prefers recent medicals
- Qatar & Kuwait: Strict on expiry dates
- Oman & Bahrain: Follow WAFID validity rules closely
Tip: Always aim to complete visa stamping within 45–60 days of your medical to stay safe.
What Happens If Gamca Medical Certificate Expires?
If your Gamca medical certificate expires before visa stamping:
- You cannot use the old report
- A fresh Gamca medical appointment is required
- You must undergo the entire medical test again
- Additional cost and time are involved
There is no extension or renewal option once a report expires.
Practical Tips to Avoid Medical Expiry Issues
Here are some real-world tips that experienced Gulf applicants follow:
- Book your Gamca medical only after visa file is ready
- Coordinate with your agent or employer before testing
- Avoid unnecessary delays after getting “Fit” status
- Keep screenshots or PDFs of report status
- Track your validity dates manually
A little planning can save you money and repeat tests.
Can You Rebook After Expiry?
Yes, but with conditions:
- Old report becomes invalid
- New Gamca medical appointment must be booked
- Fresh tests are conducted
- New validity timeline starts
This is why most professionals recommend not rushing into medicals too early.
Conclusion
The Gamca medical certificate validity is a key factor in the visa procedure to the Gulf. It is generally valid for 90 days, however, if the timing is not right, the certificate can expire and you will have to go for a new test unnecessarily. Knowing the difference between the validity of the appointment slip and the medical report validity makes it easier for you to plan.
Firstly, arrange your medical examination close to the time of your visa. Secondly, once you are declared fit, proceed with the following steps without delay.
A timely decision today can be your saving time for weeks of delay tomorrow.
FAQs – Gamca Medical Certificate Validity
Q1. How long is the Gamca medical certificate valid?
The Gamca medical certificate is generally valid for 90 days from the date the report is marked fit.
Q2. Can Gamca medical validity be extended?
No. Once expired, it cannot be extended. You must take a new medical test.
Q3. Is appointment slip validity and medical report validity the same?
No. The Gamca appointment slip is valid for 30 days, while the medical certificate is valid for 90 days.
Q4. What if my visa is delayed after medical fitness?
If the report expires before visa stamping, a fresh Gamca medical test is required.
Q5. Does Gamca validity differ for each GCC country?
The standard validity is the same, but some embassies prefer recent medical reports, so early stamping is recommended.
