Dubai remains one of the top destinations for Indian nurses seeking international career opportunities. With competitive salaries, tax-free income, and modern healthcare facilities, thousands of nurses apply for a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Nursing License every year.
If you're planning to work in a DHA-regulated healthcare facility, understanding the licensing process is essential. This guide explains the official DHA nursing license application process, required documents, fees, and practical tips to help you avoid delays.
Step 1: Complete the DHA Self-Assessment
Your licensing journey begins with the DHA Self-Assessment Tool available on the Sheryan portal. The self-assessment checks whether your qualifications appear to meet the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) for your intended nursing category. If the automated result is "Not Eligible" or you disagree with the outcome, you can request a Review Registration Eligibility through Sheryan.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Before starting your application, make sure you have the necessary documents ready. These commonly include:
Valid passport
Recent passport-size photograph
Nursing degree or diploma certificate
Academic transcripts
Valid nursing registration/license
Experience certificate(s)
Good Standing Certificate (issued by your nursing regulatory authority and generally not older than six months at the time of application)
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, where applicable for your profession or employer requirements
Ensure all documents are genuine, complete, and clearly scanned. Your name should match across every document to avoid verification delays.
Step 3: Complete DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV)
After your self-assessment, complete DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV). During this process, your educational qualifications, nursing registration, and work experience are verified directly with the issuing institutions.
Processing time varies because it depends on how quickly universities, licensing authorities, and employers respond to verification requests. Delays are common when institutions take longer to confirm applicant details.
To avoid unnecessary delays:
Enter accurate information.
Upload high-quality document scans.
Ensure employer contact details are correct.
Inform your employer that DataFlow may contact them for verification.
Step 4: Complete the DHA CBT Assessment (If Required)
Depending on your nursing category and eligibility, DHA may require you to pass a Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted through Prometric.
DHA allows applicants to complete the DataFlow verification and CBT assessment in parallel, helping reduce the overall licensing timeline where applicable.
Step 5: Apply for DHA Registration
Once your verification is complete and you have passed any required CBT assessment, submit your Get Registered application through the Sheryan portal.
During this stage, DHA reviews your application and supporting documents. For certain professional categories, DHA may require an oral assessment as part of the registration process. Registration is issued only after the application is approved and any required oral assessment has been successfully completed. Once approved, you are automatically added to the Dubai Medical Registry.
The DHA registration is generally valid for one year. During this period, a DHA-licensed healthcare facility must activate your registration into a professional licence before you can legally practise.
Step 6: Activate Your Professional Licence
Receiving your DHA registration does not mean you can immediately start working.
After securing employment, your hiring healthcare facility submits the Professional License Activation request through the Sheryan portal. Once DHA activates your licence, you are officially authorised to practise in DHA-regulated healthcare facilities in Dubai.
Fees and Processing Time
Some common DHA service fees include:
Review Registration Eligibility: AED 200 (plus applicable Knowledge and Innovation fees)
Get Registered: AED 200 (plus applicable Knowledge and Innovation fees)
Additional charges apply separately for DataFlow verification and Prometric CBT, depending on your profession and examination requirements. Processing times also vary depending on document verification and DHA review.
Tips for a Successful DHA Nursing License Application
Follow these simple tips to improve your chances of a smooth application:
Complete the Self-Assessment before beginning the licensing process.
Ensure your documents are genuine and clearly scanned.
Keep your Good Standing Certificate valid.
Verify that your name is consistent across all documents.
Double-check passport numbers, registration details, and employment dates.
Respond promptly to any requests from DHA or DataFlow.
Keep copies of every document and confirmation received during the application.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a DHA Nursing License involves several important stages, including the Self-Assessment Tool, DataFlow Primary Source Verification, CBT assessment (if required), DHA registration, and professional licence activation. Preparing accurate documents and following the official DHA workflow can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Before applying, always review the latest Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) on the DHA Sheryan portal, as licensing requirements may be updated over time. Once your licensing process is underway, consistent preparation through mock tests and high-quality nursing MCQs can help you succeed in the DHA CBT examination and move one step closer to building your nursing career in Dubai.
Written by: Venkat
Contact
🌐 Website: www.fornixacademy.com
📞 Call: +91 90304 48482
📧 Email: venkat@fornixacademy.com
📱 Instagram: @fornix.academy
https://fornixacademy.com/blogs/best-mhsrb-nursing-officer-coaching-in-hyderabad-2026
https://fornixacademy.com/blogs/mhsrb-nursing-officer-exam-pattern-2026-marks-questions-exam-duration-selection-process
https://fornixacademy.com/blogs/best-nims-staff-nurse-coaching-hyderabad-2026
