Healthcare professionals who want to work in Saudi Arabia must obtain an SCFHS license from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). This professional registration is a mandatory step in obtaining a medical license in Saudi Arabia, allowing doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and allied healthcare professionals to legally practice in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the Kingdom.
For many international healthcare professionals, the Saudi medical license process can seem complex because it involves eligibility assessment, DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV), professional classification, Mumaris Plus registration, and, where applicable, the Saudi Prometric licensing examination. Understanding each step before you apply can help avoid unnecessary delays and application rejections.
In this complete 2026 guide, you’ll learn how to get an SCFHS license in Saudi Arabia, including eligibility requirements, required documents, licensing costs, processing times, examination requirements, and practical tips to complete your application successfully. If you need expert guidance, DrExpat also provides end-to-end SCFHS licensing support, including eligibility checks, document preparation, DataFlow assistance, and application management
What is an SCFHS License?
The SCFHS license is the official medical license in Saudi Arabia issued by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). It authorizes qualified healthcare professionals to legally practice in hospitals, clinics, and other licensed healthcare facilities across the Kingdom.
All doctors, whether Saudi nationals or internationally trained physicians, must complete SCFHS registration before they can begin practicing in Saudi Arabia. Depending on their qualifications and professional category, applicants may also need to complete DataFlow verification, obtain professional classification, and pass the SCFHS Prometric examination.
The licensing process is designed to ensure that healthcare professionals meet Saudi Arabia’s regulatory and professional standards before entering clinical practice.
Doctors typically complete the following steps:
- Create an SCFHS account through Mumaris Plus
- Complete DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV)
- Apply for professional classification
- Pass the SCFHS Prometric exam (if required)
- Obtain professional registration and licensing
Once licensed, doctors can work in government hospitals, private healthcare organizations, academic medical centers, and specialty clinics throughout Saudi Arabia.
Who Needs an SCFHS License?
Any healthcare professional planning to work in Saudi Arabia must obtain an SCFHS license as part of the medical licensing process in Saudi Arabia. This requirement applies to both Saudi nationals and internationally qualified healthcare professionals seeking employment in hospitals, clinics, and other licensed healthcare facilities.
Doctors who typically require SCFHS registration include:
General Practitioners
Specialists
Consultants
Dentists
Nurses
Pharmacists
Allied healthcare professionals
International doctors from the United Kingdom, United States, Europe, Asia, and other regions must also complete the same licensing procedure.
For foreign physicians, SCFHS licensing verifies that their education, training, and clinical experience meet Saudi healthcare standards. Without this approval, hospitals cannot legally employ a doctor.
Doctors considering opportunities in the Gulf region often compare licensing requirements with working as a doctor in Dubai.
Saudi Arabia medical license Requirements
To obtain an SCFHS license and a medical license in Saudi Arabia, doctors must meet the eligibility requirements set by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). These requirements help ensure that healthcare professionals possess the qualifications, clinical experience, and professional standing needed to practice safely within Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system.
Basic SCFHS license requirements include:
- A recognized medical degree from an accredited university
- Completion of a mandatory internship (where applicable)
- A valid medical license or registration in the home country
- Relevant post-qualification clinical experience
- A Good Standing Certificate issued by the appropriate medical regulatory authority
- A valid passport and other identification documents
Depending on the applicant’s qualifications, specialty, and country of training, SCFHS may also require DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV) and successful completion of the SCFHS Prometric licensing examination before granting professional classification and registration.
Experience requirements generally vary by professional category:
General Practitioners: Completion of internship and any additional experience required by SCFHS
Specialists: Recognized postgraduate qualification with relevant specialty experience
Consultants: Approved higher specialty qualification supported by substantial independent clinical experience
Meeting these eligibility requirements allows applicants to proceed with professional classification, registration, and the remaining stages of the SCFHS licensing process.
Step-by-Step Process to Get an SCFHS License
Obtaining an SCFHS license in Saudi Arabia involves a structured registration process managed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). To receive a medical license in Saudi Arabia, doctors must successfully complete each stage, including account registration, credential verification, professional classification, examination (if applicable), and final professional registration.
Step 1 Create an SCFHS Account
The first step is creating an account on Mumaris Plus, the official SCFHS online licensing portal. Applicants must provide their personal information, academic qualifications, professional experience, and contact details. Once the account is created, they can upload documents, submit licensing applications, and monitor the status of their SCFHS registration online.
Step 2 DataFlow Verification
DataFlow verification is a background verification process used by many healthcare licensing authorities in the Middle East.
During this stage, the applicant’s credentials are verified, including:
Medical degree
Internship completion
Professional experience
Medical license in the home country
The DataFlow process ensures that all submitted documents are authentic. Many healthcare regulators in the Gulf also require DataFlow verification including the Dubai Health Authority licensing process.
Step 3 SCFHS Classification
Once credential verification is completed, the doctor applies for professional classification. This determines the doctor’s professional level within the Saudi healthcare system.
Classification categories include:
General Practitioner
Specialist
Consultant
SCFHS evaluates qualifications and experience to determine the appropriate classification. Doctors often compare classification requirements when applying for international roles such as specialist and consultant medical jobs.
Step 4 SCFHS Prometric Exam
Some doctors must pass a licensing examination before obtaining their medical license.
The SCFHS Prometric exam evaluates medical knowledge and clinical competency. The exam is typically conducted at Prometric testing centers worldwide.
Doctors who already hold recognized international qualifications may sometimes be exempt from the exam.
Step 5 Professional Registration
After completing classification and examination requirements, doctors receive SCFHS professional registration.
This registration allows the doctor to work legally in healthcare facilities across Saudi Arabia.
Documents Required for SCFHS Registration
To apply for SCFHS registration and obtain a medical license in Saudi Arabia, applicants must submit supporting documents for credential verification and professional classification. Providing complete and accurate documentation helps reduce delays during the DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV) process and the overall licensing application.
Common documents required include:
- Medical degree certificate
- Passport copy
- Internship completion certificate
- Experience certificates
- Valid medical license from the home country
- Good Standing Certificate issued by the relevant medical authority
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
Depending on the applicant’s profession, specialty, and country of qualification, SCFHS may request additional documents. All submitted credentials are subject to verification through the DataFlow process before professional classification and registration can be completed.
SCFHS Prometric Exam for Doctors
The SCFHS Prometric exam is a key requirement for many healthcare professionals applying for a medical license in Saudi Arabia. Conducted on behalf of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), the exam assesses a candidate’s medical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and ability to practice safely within the Saudi healthcare system.
Depending on your profession, specialty, qualifications, and country of training, you may be required to pass the Saudi licensing examination before obtaining professional classification and registration.
Key features of the SCFHS Prometric exam include:
- Computer-based examination
- Conducted at authorized Prometric test centres worldwide
- Specialty-specific question format
- Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Passing score determined by SCFHS for each specialty
Candidates should review the latest SCFHS examination requirements and prepare thoroughly before scheduling their exam. Successfully passing the examination, where applicable, is an important step towards obtaining an SCFHS license and legally practicing in Saudi Arabia.
SCFHS License Cost
The cost of obtaining an SCFHS license varies depending on your profession, specialty, and the services required during the licensing process. Applicants should budget for expenses such as DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV), the SCFHS Prometric examination (if applicable), professional classification, and registration fees.
Estimated costs may include:
| Process | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DataFlow verification | $300 – $500 |
| Prometric exam | $200 – $300 |
| Professional classification | $200 – $400 |
| Registration fee | $300 – $500 |
SCFHS vs UAE Medical Licenses
Many professionals compare Saudi licensing with UAE medical licenses.
| License | Country | Authority |
|---|---|---|
| SCFHS | Saudi Arabia | Saudi Commission for Health Specialties |
| DHA | Dubai | Dubai Health Authority |
| MOH | UAE | Ministry of Health and Prevention |
| DOH | Abu Dhabi | Department of Health Abu Dhabi |
Key difference:
SCFHS license allows work in Saudi Arabia
DHA / MOH / DOH licenses allow work in UAE emirates
Professionals often choose the license depending on salary expectations, job availability, and relocation plans.
Can UK, US, and European Doctors Get an SCFHS License?
Yes, doctors trained in the UK, United States, and Europe can obtain an SCFHS license if they meet eligibility requirements.
Doctors with internationally recognized qualifications often find the licensing process easier because their credentials are widely accepted.
However, they must still complete:
Credential verification
Professional classification
Licensing examination (if required)
Many Saudi hospitals actively recruit international doctors due to the growing demand for experienced healthcare professionals.
Common Mistakes in the SCFHS Licensing Process
Some doctors face delays during the licensing process due to avoidable mistakes.
Common issues include:
Submitting incomplete documents
Incorrect experience certificates
DataFlow verification delays
Missing good standing certificates
Ensuring that all documents are accurate and properly verified can help speed up the licensing process.
SCFHS Registration Process
After successfully completing credential verification, professional classification, and any required licensing examination, applicants can proceed with SCFHS registration. This is the final step before becoming legally eligible to practice in Saudi Arabia.
The registration process is completed through the Mumaris Plus portal, where applicants submit the required documents, pay the applicable registration fees, and track the status of their application. Once approved, SCFHS issues the professional registration, allowing healthcare professionals to work in licensed hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Saudi Arabia.
To avoid delays, applicants should ensure that all documents are accurate and that their DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV) has been successfully completed before submitting their registration application. If you’re unfamiliar with the verification process, read our DataFlow Verification Guide to understand the required documents, processing timeline, and common reasons for delays.
FAQs
1. What is SCFHS in Saudi Arabia?
The SCFHS license is the official medical license issued by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. It allows healthcare professionals such as doctors, dentists, nurses, and pharmacists to legally practice medicine in Saudi Arabia. All international and local healthcare professionals must obtain SCFHS registration before working in hospitals or clinics in the country.
2. Who is eligible for the Saudi licensing exam?
Doctors who want to work in Saudi Arabia must meet several eligibility requirements before taking the SCFHS licensing exam. These usually include a recognized medical degree, completed internship training, a valid medical license from the home country, verified credentials through DataFlow, and relevant clinical experience.
3. What is the passing score for the Saudi Prometric exam?
The passing score for the Saudi Prometric exam is typically 60% to 70%, depending on the specialty and classification level. The exam evaluates medical knowledge and clinical decision-making abilities required for safe medical practice in Saudi Arabia.
4. How many attempts are allowed for the Saudi Prometric exam?
Doctors are usually allowed three attempts to pass the Saudi Prometric exam. If a candidate fails all attempts, they may need additional training or eligibility review before reapplying for the exam.
5. How long is the Saudi licensing exam?
The Saudi Prometric licensing exam generally lasts 2 to 4 hours depending on the medical specialty. It is a computer-based exam consisting mainly of multiple-choice clinical questions.
6. How much does the SCFHS exam cost in Saudi Arabia?
The SCFHS exam fee typically ranges from $200 to $300. Additional costs may apply for DataFlow verification, professional classification, and licensing registration.
7. How long does it take to get an SCFHS license?
The complete licensing process usually takes 4 to 12 weeks. The timeline depends on factors such as document verification, DataFlow processing, and exam scheduling.
8. Is an SCFHS license valid in the UAE?
No, an SCFHS license is only valid in Saudi Arabia. Doctors who want to work in the UAE must obtain a license from the relevant authority such as DHA, DOH, or MOH depending on the emirate.
9. Can I convert a Saudi medical license to a UAE license?
Doctors cannot directly transfer an SCFHS license to the UAE. However, physicians can apply for UAE licensing using their qualifications and clinical experience gained in Saudi Arabia.
10. Is 3000 SAR a good salary in Saudi Arabia?
A salary of 3000 SAR is generally considered low for healthcare professionals. Doctors typically earn significantly higher salaries depending on their specialization and experience.
11. What is the average doctor salary in Saudi Arabia?
Doctor salaries in Saudi Arabia vary depending on experience and specialization. On average, general practitioners earn $4,000 to $7,000 per month, specialists earn $7,000 to $12,000, and consultants can earn $12,000 to $20,000 or more per month.
12. Which countries accept the Saudi Prometric exam?
The Saudi Prometric exam can be taken at Prometric testing centers worldwide. Doctors from many countries including the UK, USA, Europe, India, and Pakistan take this exam to qualify for medical practice in Saudi Arabia.
13. How can I apply for a Saudi medical license?
Doctors can apply for a Saudi medical license by creating an account on the SCFHS portal, completing DataFlow verification, applying for professional classification, passing the Prometric exam if required, and completing final registration.
