Pathway To UAE For Pakistani Optometrist
A Pakistani optometrist is generally eligible to apply for a license in the UAE, provided they meet the specific requirements set by the relevant health authority.
The UAE has several health authorities, including:
1.Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for 2.Dubai Department of Health (DOH), formerly HAAD, for Abu Dhabi
3.Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) for other Northern Emirates
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
General Eligibility Criteria for Optometrists:
Educational Qualification:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Optometry (B.Optom) or Doctor of optometry (OD) from a recognized institution is typically required.
The minimum course duration for a Bachelor of Optometry, Diploma in Optometry, or Doctor of optometry is usually three years.
Professional Experience:
A minimum of two years of post-qualification clinical experience
in optometry is usually mandatory (excluding internship). Some sources might mention 1-3 years depending on the specific role or authority.
For those with a Diploma, three years of experience might be required.
If there’s a gap in practice, specific requirements (like a period of supervision) might apply. A gap exceeding two years might require re-evaluation or make you ineligible.
Good Standing Certificate (GSC):
A valid GSC from the National Health Professional Council (NHPC) or equivalent licensing authority in Pakistan, verifying no disciplinary actions or malpractice claims. This certificate should not be older than six months at the time of application.
Professional License/Registration from Home Country:
A valid practice license or registration from the optometry council in Pakistan.
Language Proficiency:
Excellent command of the English language (written and spoken) is a condition.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow: This is a crucial step for all foreign healthcare professionals. You will need to submit your documents to a third-party verification agency like DataFlow Group.DataFlow will verify the authenticity of your all documents.Fee is AED 935.
Computer Based Test (CBT) Assessment (If Required)
Once your DataFlow verification is complete and positive, you may be required to pass a CBT exam administered by a testing partner like Prometric. Fee is USD 240.
The exam evaluates clinical knowledge, optometric techniques, and adherence to international healthcare standards.
The format is typically multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with a specific duration (e.g., 2-3 hours for DHA). There’s usually a minimum passing score (e.g., 55-60% for DHA).
You can often schedule and take the exam in your home country or a nearby testing center.
Application for Registration/Eligibility Letter,:
After successfully completing PSV and passing the CBT (if required), you will apply for registration or an “Eligibility Letter” through the health authority’s portal. Submit any additional documents requested and pay the application fees.
The eligibility letter confirms that you fulfill the requirements and allows you to search for jobs. It is valid for a certain period (e.g., one year for DHA).
Oral Assessment (If Required)
Depending on the professional position and the authority, an oral assessment might be required.
License Activation (Requires an Employer)
Once you have your eligibility letter and have secured a job offer from a healthcare facility in the UAE, your prospective employer will typically link their application to the health authority to activate your professional license.
This is usually the final step before you can legally start practicing.
Overall UAE Average (Monthly):
GulfTalent suggests an average monthly salary of AED 4,500, with a range going up to AED 12,500.
Naukrigulf indicates an average monthly salary of AED 6,763 for optometrists in the UAE.
By Emirate (Monthly Averages):
Abu Dhabi: Naukrigulf reports an average of AED 6,735 per month. SalaryExpert indicates an average gross annual salary of AED 370,390, which is about AED 30,866 per month
Dubai: Naukrigulf reports an average of AED 7,476 per month. SalaryExpert suggests an average gross annual salary of AED 376,965, which translates to approximately AED 31,413 per month.
CONTACT
MAHMOOD SALEEM
Advocate High Court
Immigration Consultant
Call 0321-4314001
WhatsApp 0333-5769655