Introduction

Qatar’s rapidly expanding healthcare sector presents attractive opportunities for medical professionals worldwide. Oversight of practitioner licensing and ethical conduct lies with the Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP) under the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). This body was formerly known as the Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners (QCHP) until 2013.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step outline for Pakistani medical graduates seeking initial registration to practice as General Practitioners in Qatar. While the focus is on GP licensure, many points also apply to other specialties.

Step 1: Understanding the Licensing Process in Qatar

Identifying the Official Sources of Information

• Qatar Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) – moph.gov.qa
  • Look for the Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP) section, which lists updated rules, forms, and announcements.
• Dataflow Group – dataflowgroup.com
  • Handles Primary Source Verification (PSV) of education and work credentials.
• Prometric – prometric.com
  • Administers any required licensing examinations on behalf of the DHP.

Healthcare Professional Categories and Licensing Pathways

• General Practitioner (GP)
  • Most Pakistani MBBS graduates will apply under this category initially.
  • Requires 5 years of post-internship clinical experience unless applying for “GP Supervised” positions (which can be more limited).
• Specialist / Consultant / Nurse / Allied Health
  • Different requirements may apply, such as specialized degrees or different Prometric exams.

The Importance of Primary Source Verification (PSV)

• Mandatory for all applicants – Conducted by the Dataflow Group.
• Ensures authenticity of educational and professional credentials.
• A positive Dataflow report is required before your license application can move forward with the DHP.

Step 2: Assessing Your Eligibility as a Pakistani Medical Graduate

General Eligibility Criteria for Physicians in Qatar

1. Recognized Medical Degree – Must be from an accredited institution.
2. 6 Years of Medical Education – Typically includes a 1-year internship/house job.
3. Minimum 5 Years of Clinical Experience Post-Internship – For a full GP license.
   • Note: Roles like “GP Supervised” may exist for those under 5 years’ experience but are less common.
4. English Language Proficiency – Not always explicitly tested, but essential in Qatar’s healthcare settings.

Specific Requirements for Pakistani Medical Graduates

• Front & Back Copies of the Degree
  • Nationals of Pakistan, India, Egypt, and Afghanistan must submit both sides of the medical degree.
• PMDC Registration – Ensure your degree is recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).
• Potential English Language Tests
  • While IELTS is mentioned for Pakistani students entering MBBS programs, professional requirements vary. Check directly with DHP for current policies.

Importance of a Recognized Medical Degree

Verify that your institution is accredited by PMDC and recognized by the Qatar DHP. If your university is not recognized, your application may be rejected outright.

Step 3: Obtaining a Good Standing Certificate from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC)

Understanding the Purpose of the Good Standing Certificate

• Issued by PMDC – Confirms that you are fully registered, licensed, and have no pending disciplinary cases.
• International Requirement – Used by most global licensing bodies, including the Qatar DHP.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Online for the Good Standing Certificate

1. Visit the PMDC website – pmdc.pk (or pmdc.login if applicable).
2. Create an account or log in – If you already have PMDC online credentials.
3. Select ‘Certificate of Good Standing’ – Follow on-screen instructions.
4. Fill in required details – PMDC registration number, personal info, CNIC or passport, contact details, etc.
5. Choose the recipient – Indicate Qatar DHP as the authority needing the certificate.
6. Opt for direct PMDC-to-DHP courier if desired – Often faster and more secure.

Required Documents for the PMDC Good Standing Certificate Application

• Scanned copy of PMDC registration certificate
• Copy of CNIC (front and back) or passport
• Proof of request from Qatar DHP if available (e.g., job offer or DHP letter)
• Recent passport-sized photograph

Fees and Payment Method

• Fee for the Good Standing Certificate: 7,000 PKR
• Additional courier charge (direct to foreign authority): 10,000 PKR
• Total: 17,000 PKR if you choose direct courier.
• Online payment via debit/credit card on the PMDC portal.

Estimated Duration for Obtaining the Certificate

• Processing: ~15 working days after online submission and payment.
• Delivery: Add transit time if the certificate is couriered directly to Qatar.

Step 4: Navigating the Dataflow Primary Source Verification (PSV) Process

Introduction to Dataflow and Its Role

• Mandatory PSV – Dataflow verifies your degree, internship, work experience, and professional licenses directly from the issuing authorities.
• Partner since 2009 – Trusted by the Qatar DHP.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Account and Submitting Documents

1. Go to dataflowgroup.com
2. Register with a valid email; confirm via activation link.
3. Log in to your new Dataflow account/dashboard.
4. Select Qatar DHP as the relevant authority.
5. Fill out the online PSV application.
6. Upload required documents.
7. Pay the applicable fees.
8. Track your case with the Dataflow reference number.

List of Required Documents for Dataflow Verification

• Medical degree certificate (front and back for Pakistan/India/Egypt/Afghanistan)
• Academic transcripts/mark sheets
• Internship/house job completion certificate
• Valid PMDC license or registration certificate
• Experience certificates from all previous employers (signed, stamped, with contact details)
• Good Standing Certificate from PMDC
• Clear passport copy
• Recent passport-sized photograph (white background)
• Updated CV (ideally in DHP format)
• National ID card (if required) and visa number (if already in Qatar)
• Logbook (if required by specific facilities or roles)
• Certified translations for any non-English/Arabic documents

Fees Associated with Dataflow Verification

• Approximate range: ~1,100 QAR to 1,500 QAR, but can vary by:
  • Number of documents to verify
  • Additional degrees or work experiences
  • Country-specific checks
• Check Dataflow Group for current fee schedules.

Estimated Duration for the PSV Process

• Typical: 4 to 6 weeks (about 25–30 working days)
• Potential Delays: If the issuing institutions in Pakistan do not respond promptly.
• Plan on 1–2 months overall for the PSV stage.

Step 5: Preparing for and Taking the Qatar Prometric Examination (if Required)

Determining the Need for the Prometric Exam

• Most General Practitioners from outside Qatar do require the exam.
• Exemptions may exist for certain postgraduate qualifications (e.g., specialized degrees), but Pakistani MBBS holders typically must sit for it.
• Always verify with DHP Official Website for current exemption policies.

Step-by-Step Guide on Registering for the Prometric Exam

1. Visit prometric.com
2. Select ‘Schedule My Test’ and locate “DHP Qatar exam.”
3. Create a profile (if you do not have one).
4. Choose “Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP) – Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) State of Qatar” from the dropdown.
5. Pick an exam date and center – Options exist internationally, including in Pakistan or nearby countries.
6. Pay the exam fee to finalize booking.

Prometric Exam Fees

• Vary by profession.
• GP exam typically ranges from 225–300 USD or ~868–1,100 QAR.
• Rescheduling fees (e.g., ~40 USD) may apply if done within a specific timeframe.

Prometric Exam Format, Duration, and Passing Score

• Computer-based test (CBT) with multiple-choice questions.
• Duration: ~3 hours with ~150 questions (numbers vary).
• Passing score: Often 60% (confirm on official site).
• Multiple attempts allowed – If you fail, you can retake after a specified interval.

Overview of the Syllabus for the General Practitioner Exam

Covers broad medical topics:

• Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, OB-GYN, Surgery
• Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, ENT, Dermatology
• Epidemiology, Evidence-Based Medicine, Biomedical Sciences
• Medical Ethics & Communication Skills

Step 6: Applying for Evaluation with the Qatar DHP

Step-by-Step Guide on Applying for Evaluation

1. Visit the DHP portal and create an account or log in if already registered.
2. On your user dashboard, find “apply for evaluation” or a similar prompt.
3. Agree to any personal declaration statements.
4. Complete the online application form accurately (fields marked with * are mandatory).

Required Documents for Evaluation

• Personal info as per passport
• Passport-size photograph (white background)
• Passport copy + National ID copy
• Educational qualifications (degree, transcripts)
• CV (DHP format recommended)
• Prometric exam score report (if applicable)
• Dataflow PSV reference/report
• Good Standing Certificate (PMDC)
• CPR/BLS certification (if required)
• Supervision letter (if applicable)
• Qatar visa number (if already in Qatar)

Evaluation Fees

• ~100 QAR for evaluation (paid online via credit/debit card).

Expected Duration for the Evaluation Process

• Can take a few weeks for DHP to review documents.
• The status might show as “pending with employer” if an employer is involved, then “application evaluated by DHP.”

Step 7: Securing Employment in Qatar

Importance of Employer Sponsorship

• In Qatar, an employer typically sponsors your work visa and helps with final licensing steps.
• A confirmed job offer is often required for the “employer-initiated” stages of the application.

Strategies for Finding Medical Jobs in Qatar

1. Major Public Healthcare Providers
   • Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) – hamad.qa
   • Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) – phcc.gov.qa
2. Private Hospitals & Clinics
   • Sidra Medicine, Al Ahli Hospital, Aster Hospital, etc.
3. Online Job Portals
   • nf.com.qa, Indeed, Monster Gulf, Bayt, GulfTalent, LinkedIn
4. Recruitment Agencies
   • Global Medical Recruiting, Odyssey Recruitment
5. Networking – Contact colleagues or mentors already in Qatar.

Tailoring Your Application Materials

• Customize your CV for each position, highlighting relevant skills.
• Emphasize clinical experience and any special expertise (e.g., ACLS, BLS, courses completed).
• Ensure your contact info is up to date, and consider including a Qatari contact number if available.

Step 8: Applying for the Temporary and Permanent Medical License with the DHP

Process After Receiving a Job Offer and Positive Evaluation

• The employer typically takes the lead on your behalf.
• Employer logs in via their institutional DHP account to finalize your temporary or permanent license requests.

Applying for the Temporary Practicing License

• Often valid for 6 months (non-renewable).
• Allows you to begin working under employer sponsorship while preparing for a permanent license.

Requirements for Obtaining the Permanent License

• Updated CV
• Qatari ID (front & back) – obtained after residency permit.
• Medical report from an authorized Qatari medical center.
• Criminal record clearance from the Qatar Ministry of Interior.
• Good Standing Certificate (original from PMDC).
• Dataflow (PSV) report
• Prometric exam results (if required)
• Copies of academic qualifications
• Copies of previous experience certificates
• Copies of prior medical registrations
• Personal photograph per DHP specs.

Important: Permanent license holders are typically tied to the facility that sponsors them (except Qatari nationals).

Licensing Fees for General Practitioners

• Permanent license fee: ~1,000 QAR
• Usually paid by the employer, but arrangements vary.

Estimated Duration for Obtaining the License

• Temporary license: Usually quicker once evaluation is complete and job offer is confirmed.
• Permanent license: ~15 working days after submission, assuming documents are complete.

Comparison Table: Temporary vs. Permanent License

Step 9: Visa and Residency Permit Requirements

• Work Visa: Typically arranged by your Qatari employer after a job offer is secured.
• Residency Permit (RP):
  1. You arrive in Qatar on a work visa.
  2. Undergo a Qatari medical examination (chest X-ray, blood tests, etc.).
  3. Provide police clearance from Qatar.
  4. Employer helps finalize your Residency Permit through the Ministry of Interior.

Note: You cannot legally start working without both a valid temporary license (or permanent license) and an appropriate work/residency status.

Additional Considerations

Document Authenticity and Translation

• Translations: If a document is not in English or Arabic, have it translated by a certified translator and submit both the original + translation.

Potential Challenges and How to Address Them

• Experience Gaps – Gaining some post-internship experience in Pakistan (2+ years) can significantly improve job prospects.
• Qatarization – Policies to hire Qatari nationals first can affect vacancy availability.

License Renewal

• Typically 2 years validity for a permanent license in private settings.
• Must fulfill Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits.
• Renewal must be done before license expiry to avoid breaks in practice.

Summary Checklist

1. Initial Research
   • Check official websites: DHP, Dataflow, Prometric.
   • Confirm degree recognition with PMDC and DHP.
2. Eligibility
   • Verify minimum experience (5+ years post-internship if seeking full GP licensure).
   • Check English proficiency requirements.
3. PMDC Good Standing
   • Apply online at pmdc.pk.
   • Pay fees (7,000 PKR + 10,000 PKR courier if needed).
   • Wait ~15 working days.
4. Dataflow PSV
   • Register at dataflowgroup.com.
   • Upload all documents (degree, transcripts, licenses, experience certificates).
   • Pay fees (~1,100+ QAR).
   • Wait 4–6 weeks for verification.
5. Prometric Exam (if required)
   • Schedule at prometric.com.
   • Pay exam fees (~225–300 USD).
   • Pass with ~60% score.
6. DHP Evaluation
   • Create account at dhpportal.moph.gov.qa.
   • Submit online form + docs + 100 QAR fee.
   • Monitor evaluation status.
7. Find Employment
   • Apply to hospitals/clinics or via agencies.
   • Secure job offer for sponsorship.
8. Temporary License
   • Employer requests on your behalf if immediate work is needed.
9. Permanent License
   • Submit final documents (police clearance, QID, medical fitness, etc.).
   • Pay ~1,000 QAR.
   • Issued in ~15 working days.
10. Visa & Residency
    • Employer applies for your work visa.
    • Undergo medical exams in Qatar.
    • Obtain Residence Permit (RP).

Tips & Common Mistakes

1. Tip: Start collecting your documents (including internship completion, experience letters) at least 3–4 months before applying for Dataflow.
2. Tip: Maintain scanned copies of front and back of your degree if you are from Pakistan, India, Egypt, or Afghanistan.
3. Mistake: Overlooking the Good Standing Certificate timelines—apply early to avoid delays in your DHP process.
4. Mistake: Failing to authenticate or translate documents properly leads to rejections.
5. Tip: Track your PSV progress online to see if your university or employer has responded.
6. Tip: In the Prometric exam, time management is crucial—practice with timed MCQs.

Important Websites (Hyperlinked)

• Qatar Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) / Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP) https://dhp.moph.gov.qa/
• Dataflow Group https://www.dataflowgroup.com/
• Prometric https://www.prometric.com/
• Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC) http://pmdc.pk/
• Job Portals https://nf.com.qa/ https://www.indeed.com/ https://www.monstergulf.com/ https://www.bayt.com/ https://www.gulftalent.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/
• Major Hospitals
  • Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)
  • Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC)
  • Sidra Medicine
  • Al Ahli Hospital
  • Aster Hospital
• Recruitment Agencies
  • Global Medical Recruiting
  • Odyssey Recruitment

Contact Details

Qatar DHP (Department of Healthcare Professions)

• Email:
  • dhp_as@moph.gov.qa
  • dhpregistration@moph.gov.qa
• Phone: +974 4407 0331 / +974 4409 2033 / +974 4407 0000
• Postal Address: P.O. Box: 42 or 7744, Doha, Qatar

PMDC (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council)

• Website: pmdc.pk
• Additional contacts listed on official PMDC website

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q1: Is my MBBS degree from Pakistan recognized by the Qatar Medical Council?

A: Yes, MBBS degrees from Pakistani medical colleges recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) are generally accepted by the DHP. To confirm, check your college’s status directly with DHP via their website or email them at qchpregistration@moph.gov.qa. If your college isn’t recognized, you may need to provide additional documentation for evaluation.

Q2: What should I do if my medical college is not recognized by PMDC?

A: If your college isn’t PMDC-recognized, your degree may not be automatically accepted. Contact DHP to request an individual credential evaluation. You might need to submit extra evidence, like detailed transcripts or proof of clinical training, to show your education meets Qatar’s standards.

Primary Source Verification (PSV)

Q3: What documents are required for Primary Source Verification (PSV)?

A: You’ll typically need:

• MBBS degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Experience certificates (if applicable)
• PMDC medical license/registration
• Good standing certificate from PMDC
• Police clearance certificate
• Passport copy
• Recent passport-sized photograph

Documents must be in English or officially translated and notarized if in Urdu.

Q4: How do I start the PSV process?

A: Follow these steps:

1. Create an account on the Dataflow Group website.
2. Choose “Ministry of Public Health, State of Qatar” as the verifying body.
3. Upload clear, scanned PDFs of your documents.
4. Pay the fee (around USD 250-300, depending on document count).
5. Track progress on the Dataflow portal.

It usually takes 2-3 weeks.

Q5: What should I do if my PSV is delayed or there are issues with my documents?

A: Check the Dataflow portal for updates or contact their support via their website. Common issues include unclear scans or missing attestations. Ensure all documents are legible and, if required, attested (e.g., by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MOFA).

Q6: Do I need to attest my documents before submitting them for PSV?

A: For PSV, attestation isn’t usually required unless Dataflow or DHP specifies it. However, for final registration, some documents (e.g., police clearance) may need MOFA attestation, especially for a temporary license.

Qualifying Exam (Prometric)

Q7: Do I need to take the Prometric exam as a Pakistani MBBS graduate?

A: Yes, most Pakistani MBBS graduates must pass the DHP MOPH Prometric exam. Exemptions might apply if you have post-graduate qualifications (e.g., FCPS, MCPS), but confirm this with DHP as it’s not guaranteed.

Q8: What is the format and content of the Prometric exam?

A: It’s a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering general medical knowledge, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. The passing score is typically around 60%, though specifics may vary.

Q9: How do I register for the Prometric exam?

A: Here’s how:

1. Go to the Prometric website.
2. Select the DHP MOPH exam for Qatar.
3. Create an account and book a test slot.
4. Pay the fee (around USD 250-300).
5. Use Prometric’s study materials to prepare.

Results are available immediately or within a day.

Q10: What happens if I fail the Prometric exam?

A: You can retake it after a 30-day waiting period. There’s no limit on attempts, but each costs the full fee. Use your score report to identify and study weak areas.

Q11: Are there any exemptions from the Prometric exam?

A: Possible exemptions include:

• USMLE
• PLAB
• Certain post-graduate qualifications (e.g., FCPS, MCPS)

Verify eligibility with DHP, as policies can change.

Registration with DHP

Q12: What documents are required for registration with DHP after PSV and the exam?

A: You’ll need:

• Passport copy and recent photo
• MBBS degree (original or certified copy)
• Academic transcripts
• Experience certificates (if applicable)
• PMDC license/registration
• Last working country’s license (if applicable)
• Resume/CV
• PSV report
• Prometric score report
• Good standing certificate from PMDC (valid 6 months)
• Police clearance (attested by MOFA if from Pakistan)
• CPR certificate (if required)
• QID certificate (if applicable)
• Medical fitness certificate (HIV, HCV, HBV tests, chest X-ray, valid 6 months, from an approved center like Hamad Medical Corporation)

Q13: How do I apply for registration with DHP?

A: Steps:

1. Log in to the DHP registration portal.
2. Fill out the online form.
3. Upload all documents, including PSV and exam results.
4. Pay fees (around 600 QAR for the license + 100 QAR for evaluation, ~USD 165 total).
5. Submit and wait 2-4 weeks for approval.

Track status online or email qchpregistration@moph.gov.qa.

Q14: What’s the difference between a temporary and permanent license?

A:

• Temporary License: Valid for 6 months, non-renewable. Issued if you’re not yet a Qatar resident. Requires home country documents (e.g., attested police clearance).
• Permanent License: For residents meeting all requirements, including Qatar-based medical tests and police clearance.

You can start with a temporary license and convert it later.

Q15: How long does the registration approval process take?

A: It typically takes 2-4 weeks after submission. Delays may happen if documents are incomplete—follow up via the portal or DHP email.

Fees and Costs

Q16: What are the total costs involved in the registration process?

A: Estimated breakdown:

• PSV: USD 250-300
• Prometric Exam: USD 250-300
• License + Evaluation Fees: 600 QAR (USD 165) + 100 QAR (USD 27)
• Total: USD 665-795

Additional costs may include attestation, translation, or travel.

Q17: Are there any additional fees I should know about?

A: Yes:

• Exam rescheduling: USD 40 (5-29 days before); no refund if <5 days or no-show.
• Exam retakes: Full fee per attempt.
• Document translation/attestation: Varies by provider.
• Medical tests/police clearance: Depends on the issuer.

Additional Considerations

Q18: Can I apply for registration without being in Qatar?

A: Yes, you can start PSV and take the Prometric exam (if available in Pakistan) from outside Qatar. For a permanent license, you’ll need Qatar-based documents (e.g., local police clearance), but a temporary license can use Pakistani documents.

Q19: How do I get a good standing certificate from PMDC?

A: Apply via the PMDC website or in person with proof of registration and fees. It’s valid for 6 months and must be sent to DHP or uploaded with your application.

Q20: What if I have work experience but no post-graduate qualifications?

A: Experience alone won’t exempt you from the Prometric exam, but it may help during credential evaluation, especially for specialist roles. Confirm with DHP.

Q21: Can my employer in Qatar assist with registration?

A: If you have a job offer, your employer might:

• Guide you on documents.
• Submit some items via their DHP portal login.
• Cover costs (varies by employer).

You still handle PSV and the exam yourself.

Q22: What if my license application is delayed?

A: If it exceeds 2-4 weeks:

• Check the DHP portal.
• Ensure all documents are complete.
• Email qchpregistration@moph.gov.qa.
• If employed, ask your HR to assist.

Q23: Can I fast-track the registration process?

A: There’s no official fast-track, but submitting perfect documents and scheduling the exam early can speed things up.