Health tourism in the UAE: How to obtain a visa for medical treatment

The entry permit for the foreign patient must be sponsored by a hospital located in the UAE.

The UAE led Middle East medical tourism in 2021, according to the US-based Medical Tourism Association. The Dubai Health Authority reported over 600,000 foreign patients in the same year.

Immigration authorities have made it simpler for overseas patients and their family members to apply for visas in order to help patients who seek to obtain medical treatment in the UAE.

Foreign patients may travel to the UAE for medical treatment with the support of a public or private hospital, according to u.ae, the government of the UAE’s official website. Upon a patient’s request, the medical facility is responsible for requesting medical treatment entry permission.

Important paperwork and information for medical treatment visas in the UAE

• A letter from a licensed hospital outlining the visit’s purpose
• A recent bank statement demonstrating the patient’s financial stability is required.

For anyone needs medical care in Dubai

A patient must submit an application for a “Medical Entry Permit” to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai in order to receive medical treatment in Dubai (GDRFA).

Entry permits come in two varieties:

1. Single-entry medical treatment entry permit

This visa holder must enter the UAE within 60 days of the date it was issued and remain for 90 days following that date.

2. Multiple-entry medical treatment entry permit:

Also, this visa has a 60-day validity period with a 90-day maximum stay after arrival. However, if a medical report is presented declaring that the patient needs to continue treatment, the stay may be extended under this visa.

In the Northern Emirates, particularly Abu Dhabi

Foreign patients must apply for a medical treatment visa through the Federal Authority for Identification, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah (ICP).

Permits come in two varieties:

• Single-entry visa for medical treatment
• Multiple-entry visa for medical treatment

ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS:

• A copy of the companion’s passport and proof of health insurance

Cost

• Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the fee ranges from Dh85 to Dh100.

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