Medical examinations are a mandatory requirement for all international workers heading to GCC countries. Understanding the GAMCA process and pre-employment medical requirements will help you prepare properly and avoid delays in your deployment.
What is GAMCA?
GAMCA (GCC Approved Medical Centers Association) is the authorized medical examination system for workers traveling to six Gulf countries: - Saudi Arabia - UAE (United Arab Emirates) - Kuwait - Oman - Qatar - Bahrain
Purpose To ensure workers are medically fit and free from communicable diseases before employment abroad.
Validity GAMCA medical certificates are valid for 3 months from the date of issue.
Required Medical Tests
Standard GAMCA Panel includes
1. Blood Tests - Complete Blood Count (CBC) - Blood Sugar (Fasting) - Hepatitis B & C screening - HIV/AIDS test - Syphilis (VDRL/RPR) - Malaria test 2. Chest X-Ray - Tuberculosis screening - Lung condition assessment 3. Urine Analysis - Kidney function - Diabetes indicators - Pregnancy test (for female candidates) 4. Physical Examination - Blood pressure - Heart and lung auscultation - General fitness evaluation - Vision and hearing tests 5. ECG (Electrocardiogram) - Required for candidates over 40 years old - Heart function assessment
Pre-Medical Preparation (48 Hours Before)
Do ✓ Fast for 8-10 hours before blood tests (water allowed) ✓ Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours) ✓ Stay well-hydrated ✓ Wear comfortable, loose clothing ✓ Bring all required documents ✓ Take regular medications (inform the doctor)
Don't ✗ Consume alcohol 48 hours before ✗ Eat heavy/fatty foods the night before ✗ Smoke on examination day ✗ Exercise vigorously before tests ✗ Take unnecessary supplements or medications
Required Documents
Mandatory Documents
1. Original Passport - Minimum 6 months validity - Clear photo page 2. Passport-size Photographs - 4-6 recent photos - White background - 35mm x 45mm size 3. Job Offer Letter - From employer or recruitment agency - Company stamp and signature 4. GAMCA Registration Slip - Appointment confirmation - Barcode/registration number 5. Previous Medical Reports (if applicable) - Existing health conditions - Prescription medications - Surgery/treatment records
GAMCA Examination Process
Step 1: Online Registration (1-2 days before) - Visit official GAMCA website - Select destination country - Fill personal details - Upload passport copy - Pay examination fee (₹2,500-₹4,000) - Print appointment slip
Step 2: Center Visit (On appointment day) - Arrive 30 minutes early - Submit documents at reception - Receive examination card - Follow center staff instructions
Step 3: Tests Sequence (2-4 hours) - Registration and biometric - Sample collection (blood/urine) - X-ray imaging - Physical examination by doctor - Eye and hearing tests - Final doctor consultation
Step 4: Result Collection (2-3 days) - Check status online using registration number - Collect physical certificate from center - Employer receives digital copy automatically
Common Medical Disqualifications
Conditions that may lead to unfitness
Permanent Disqualifications - Active Tuberculosis - HIV/AIDS positive status - Hepatitis B (HBsAg positive) in some countries - Severe heart conditions - Uncontrolled diabetes with complications - Severe mental health disorders - Drug addiction - Epilepsy (in certain job categories)
Temporary Disqualifications (Treatable) - Controlled hypertension - Anemia (low hemoglobin) - Urinary tract infections - Skin infections - Dental issues requiring treatment - Pregnancy (for certain job types)
Important If found temporarily unfit, you can reapply after treatment and medical clearance.
Country-Specific Requirements
Saudi Arabia - Strictest GAMCA standards - Additional tests for food handlers - Age restrictions (usually 18-60 years)
UAE - Emirates ID medical (separate from GAMCA) - Mandatory HIV/AIDS testing - More lenient on controlled conditions
Oman - GAMCA or equivalent approved centers - In-country medical after arrival - Hepatitis B vaccination recommended
Qatar - Pre-departure medical required - In-country medical within 7 days of arrival - Biometric health card issuance
Kuwait - GAMCA mandatory - Additional security clearance - Family sponsorship requires family medicals
Cost Breakdown
GAMCA Medical Examination Costs (India) - Registration fee: ₹300-500 - Medical tests: ₹2,000-3,500 - Certificate processing: ₹200-300 - Total: ₹2,500-₹4,300
Additional Costs - Courier/collection: ₹100-200 - Re-examination (if unfit): Full fee again - Translation services: ₹500-1,000 (if required)
UAE Emirates ID Medical - Blood tests: AED 250-350 - X-ray: AED 70-100 - Typing & approval: AED 300-400 - Total: AED 620-850 ($170-$230)
Note Costs vary by location and approved center.
Tips for Passing Your Medical
1. Maintain Good Health - Regular exercise and balanced diet - Manage existing conditions properly - Complete any pending treatments
2. Honest Disclosure - Inform doctor of all medications - Declare pre-existing conditions - Don't hide medical history
3. Follow Instructions - Read appointment slip carefully - Arrive on time with all documents - Follow fasting requirements
4. Stay Calm - Medical anxiety can affect blood pressure - Take deep breaths - Inform staff if you feel unwell
5. Get Vaccinations (if required) - Hepatitis B (recommended) - Meningitis (for Saudi Arabia) - COVID-19 booster (check current requirements)
Conclusion
Proper preparation for your GAMCA or pre-employment medical examination significantly increases your chances of a smooth, stress-free process. Follow the guidelines, maintain documentation, and consult with your recruitment agency for country-specific requirements. Mahad Manpower provides comprehensive support throughout the medical examination process, ensuring you're fully prepared for your international employment journey.