Understanding the Iqama Medical Test: A Comprehensive Guide
If you are planning to or have already immigrated to Saudi Arabia for work or residence, you will be required to undergo the Iqama medical test.
What is an Iqama? Who Needs an Iqama?
An Iqama is a temporary residence permit issued to all expatriates living in Saudi Arabia. It allows you to live and work in the Kingdom. If you have recently arrived in Saudi Arabia for employment or residence, you will need to obtain an Iqama. It serves as an official identification document and is required by the government to ensure proper documentation of expats living in the country.
The primary goal of the Iqama medical test and the requirement of an Iqama itself is to ensure national health security in Saudi Arabia. By collecting the medical data of expats, the government aims to protect Saudi residents from any potential diseases that newly arrived individuals may bring with them. It helps maintain a healthy living environment and reduces the risk of widespread health issues. Also, Read: Medical Laboratory Tests Used For Diagnosis And Treatment
Pre-requisites for an Iqama
Before you can undergo the Iqama medical test, there are certain documents you must carry to the Efada-Certified Medical Center. These include:
- Iqama medical test fees: You will need to pay approximately 200 Riyals for the medical test.
- Copies of Passport and Visa
- Original Passport for identification purposes.
- 2 Passport size photographs with White background
- If you are involved in agricultural occupations, you need to have a Schistosoma test certificate
- If you are from Sudan, you need a Meningitis Vaccination Certificate. If you don’t have one, inquire if the medical center offers this service. If not, get it done before you apply for the Iqama
Additionally, if you are traveling from the following countries, you must have a pre-medical clearance certificate from your home country. This certificate should be attested by a known hospital or clinic.
- Bangladesh
- Ethiopia
- Nepal
- Egypt
- India
- Indonesia
- Sudan
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- or any African country
How to Get an Iqama?
Once you have arrived in Saudi Arabia as an employee or worker for an employer, your employer will instruct you to visit one of the approved medical centers within the first week. These medical centers are authorized to conduct the necessary tests for the Iqama. The procedure involves a series of medical tests to assess your health and determine your eligibility for the Iqama.
The medical tests for the Iqama include:
- Salmonella Stool Test (Microscopic) (Chest)
- Blood Test (Malaria, HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis)
- Urine Test (Protein and Glucose)
- Female Pregnancy Tests
- Clinical Tests (hernia, blood pressure, eyesight, hearing, chest, and heartbeat)
The medical center conducts these tests to evaluate your overall health and identify any underlying health conditions. Once you have completed all the necessary medical checks, you just have to wait for the medical center to upload the report to the government portal.
The medical test results will be available online through the Ministry of Health’s Efada service. You can access your reports by logging into the system. In most cases, the reports should be completed within two to three days.
It is vital to note that dependents of expat employees over the age of 18 must also pass similar tests in order to receive their dependent iqama. Children’s qualifications, on the other hand, are less severe, and they may simply need to prove their weight, height, and age.
In conclusion, the Iqama medical test is a crucial step for all expats residing in Saudi Arabia. It ensures national health security by collecting essential medical data and assessing the overall health of individuals entering the country. By following the pre-requisites and undergoing the necessary medical tests, you can obtain your Iqama and enjoy a safe and healthy living experience in Saudi Arabia.
If you have any further questions or concerns about the Iqama medical test, feel free to reach out to the authorities or your employer for guidance. Abeer provides Iqama medical test facilities at affordable rates with results being provided at the earliest.
Call 920015888 now to know more details about our iqama medical services and branches.