On arrival in Qatar all newcomers are required by law to take a medical exam, the purpose of which is to protect the health of the population and prevent the spread of infectious diseases from newcomers.
Medical Requirements for workers
All newcomers wishing to work and live in Qatar are required by law to undergo a health screening after landing in the country to be able to receive a Work Residence Permit (RP).
Job seekers from the following countries are further required to complete a separate medical check-up at home through one of the approved clinics abroad before coming to Qatar:
On arrival in Qatar, the Medical Commission is responsible for conducting medical examinations, with the aim of protecting the health of the Qatar population and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Newcomers should first obtain a blood-type certificate which can be obtained from any clinic for a nominal fee before undergoing the Medical Commission exam, which comprises a blood test and chest X-ray. Diseases being screened for include: HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and C.
Additional Annual Health Checks
Those working in restaurants, barber shops, laundries, health clubs and other public places are required to undergo annual health checks.
Medical Requirements for Newcomers’ Families
For workers’ families the same rules apply. Each adult family member (over the age of 18) is required by law to have a medical examination.
Post Medical Screening
After completing the medical test, adults are required to register their fingerprints digitally with the Ministry of Interior. The fingerprinting headquarters is located on Salwa Road off the Industrial Area flyover. Other service centers are located in:
Finding the Medical Commission
The Medical Commission is responsible for conducting the health exam and is located on Al Muntazah Street off E-Ring Road. Three other private hospitals are authorized to carry out the mandatory procedure for a fee:
The Ministry of Public Health has plans to open new facilities that are solely dedicated to conducting these tests. The first hospital targeting laborers will be established in the Industrial Area and is expected to be fully operational by 2015.
For more information, visit the Ministry of Public Health's website.
