GCC Countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman are some of the most preferred locations for running professionals. But these days, one trend is growing – more and more humans are also shifting with their families. And here comes a commonplace query:
Do we need to undergo Wafid (Gamca) Medical for family visa also?
Yes. In most GCC countries, even for family/resident/family joining visas, medical fitness clearance is required before stamping. This blog will explain everything about it – in simple language. From what it is, why it is required, how the booking works, and what medical tests are done.
What Is Wafid (Gamca) Medical?
Earlier, medical tests for GCC countries were handled under GAMCA (GCC Approved Medical Centers Association). Later, it was officially renamed to Wafid.
So both words are same in daily language.
If someone asks you:
- “Do you have GAMCA slip?”
or - “Have you generated Wafid appointment ?”
They are talking about the same process.
Why Wafid (Gamca) Medical Is Required For Family Visa?
Gulf countries strictly want to ensure that no person entering with a long-term visa is carrying any communicable or dangerous disease. Family visa also means long stay, so the same rule applies.
Simple example:
If a husband works in Saudi and now wants to bring his wife and children, all members who are above the required age must undergo Wafid medical before visa stamping.
GCC wants to protect their local healthcare system and avoid disease transmission. So medical fitness is a must.
Who Needs It?
For family visa, the following usually need Wafid (Gamca) Medical:
- Spouse (husband/wife)
- Adult children (17/18+ age group depends on country)
- Parents (if family joining/residency allowed)
Note: Kids below a certain age may not require complete medical tests. But it depends country to country. Always double-check with the embassy/agent.
What Diseases Are Checked?
Mostly major infectious or harmful diseases such as:
- HIV / AIDS
- Hepatitis B & C
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Leprosy
- Contagious infections
Also, general physical check is done: X-ray, blood test, BP, etc.
If report is “Fit,” you can proceed for visa stamping.
If “Unfit,” you cannot take medical center re-check in another center directly. First cancellation rules apply as per Wafid.
How To Book Wafid (Gamca) Medical For Family Visa?
Booking is fully online.
Steps in short:
- Go to official Wafid portal
- Enter passport details
- Select your destination country
- Make payment online
- Wafid portal will assign you a nearby approved medical center
- Download slip and visit the center on your appointment day
You can also take printout of the slip because medical centers ask for it.
Tip: Keep original passport and 2–3 passport-size photos while going for test.
Is It The Same Fees As Work Visa Applicants?
Mostly yes.
Wafid medical slip fee is fixed online nearly same for all categories.
Actual medical charges at center may vary region to region or country to country.
Example:
A woman traveling to Qatar on family visa will pay the same Wafid portal charges as a man going for Saudi employment visa.
Difference can be in medical center fee only.
How Long It Takes To Get Report?
Many centers issue the result within 24–48 hours, some need 3–5 working days depending on rush and city.
Better to avoid last-minute bookings because without medical fitness you cannot proceed for visa stamping. Plan ahead at least a week buffer.
Common Mistakes People Make
- They delay medical till final stage
- They don’t carry original passport
- They book wrong visa category
- They keep gap between medical and embassy submission too long
Avoid these to save unnecessary time.
Conclusion
Getting a Wafid (Gamca) Medical For family visa is not complicated. It is just a required step before long-term entry into GCC countries. If you plan to go with your family or want to sponsor your family, this medical test is mandatory in most cases.
Make sure you schedule your medical early, carry all required documents, and follow instructions. Once medical is fit, the rest of the visa procedure becomes smooth.
FAQs – Wafid (Gamca) Medical For Family Visa
1) Is Wafid medical compulsory for family visa?
Yes, for most GCC countries it is mandatory.
2) Can children also require this test?
Young kids below certain age might not need full medical. But above that, yes. Rules vary, so confirm before booking.
3) What if the report is unfit?
Then you cannot proceed with visa stamping. You may need to reapply through proper cancellation steps.
4) Is medical center selection manual or automatic?
It is auto assigned by the Wafid portal based on your location.
5) How long is the medical report valid?
Usually 90 days validity, but always confirm with embassy or travel consultant to avoid date issues.