Medical Requirements for Diving in Madeira
Before you can dive, you must complete a medical questionnaire. Some conditions require a doctor's clearance—and you should arrange this before you arrive.
Arriving without proper medical clearance can result in being denied diving.
Dive centers cannot legally allow you to dive if you have uncleared medical conditions. There are no doctors at dive centers—you need to sort this out at home before your trip.
1The Medical Questionnaire
All diving organizations (PADI, SSI, CMAS) require you to complete a medical self-assessment questionnaire before diving. This is a legal requirement—no exceptions.
The questionnaire asks about conditions that may increase diving risks. If you answer "NO" to all questions, you can dive with just a signature.
If you answer "YES" to any question, you'll need a physician's clearance stating you are "fit to dive without restrictions."
Conditions Requiring Clearance
- • Heart disease, angina, heart attack, or heart surgery
- • High blood pressure (on medication or uncontrolled)
- • Asthma (current or history of)
- • Lung disease, pneumothorax, or breathing difficulties
- • Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
- • Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- • Ear problems, hearing loss, or balance disorders
- • Sinus problems or recent sinus surgery
- • History of panic attacks or claustrophobia
- • Taking prescription medications (most)
- • Recent surgery (within 6-12 months)
- • Pregnancy or trying to conceive
- • Back or spinal problems
- • Behavioral/mental health conditions
Generally OK Without Clearance
- • Good general health
- • No heart or lung conditions
- • No current medications (or only simple ones)
- • No ear/sinus issues
- • Reasonable fitness level
- • Age 10+ (varies by certification)
- • Non-smoker or light smoker
- • Glasses/contacts (prescription masks available)
- • Minor allergies (non-anaphylactic)
If you're healthy with no medical history, you'll likely just sign the form and dive!
2Getting Medical Clearance
If you have any conditions on the questionnaire, you'll need a physician to sign off. Here's how:
- Download the RSTC/PADI medical form (link below)
- Book an appointment with your doctor (GP or diving doctor)
- Explain you want to try scuba diving
- The doctor must write: "Fit to dive without restrictions" or similar unconditional approval
- Get it signed, dated, and stamped
- Bring the form to Madeira
Important Notes:
- • "Conditional" approval (e.g., "can dive if monitored") is usually NOT accepted
- • The form should be recent (within 12 months, ideally 3 months)
- • Your home doctor's clearance is valid—you don't need a Portuguese doctor
- • For complex conditions, see a diving medicine specialist (hyperbaric doctor)
Download Medical Forms
Download the RSTC/PADI medical questionnaire to review questions and take to your doctor if needed.
3On the Day of Your Dive
- • Bring your completed questionnaire (or doctor's clearance letter)
- • Don't dive if you're feeling unwell, congested, or hungover
- • Inform the dive center of any conditions—even if cleared
- • Don't dive within 24 hours of flying (after diving, not before)
- • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before diving
Special Cases
Asthma▼
Asthma doesn't automatically disqualify you. If your asthma is well-controlled (not exercise-induced, no hospitalizations, not triggered by cold), a doctor may clear you. You'll likely need a spirometry test. Many asthmatics dive safely, but it requires medical evaluation.
Diabetes▼
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can often dive with proper protocols. You'll need specialist clearance, good blood sugar control, and to follow diving-specific guidelines (glucose testing before/after dives, buddy briefing, etc.). Consult a diving medicine specialist.
Age Over 45▼
Some organizations recommend a dive medical for those over 45-50, even without specific conditions. This typically includes heart and lung function checks. It's precautionary, not prohibitive.
Pregnancy▼
Diving is not recommended during pregnancy due to unknown effects on the fetus. Most dive centers will not allow pregnant women to dive. If you're trying to conceive, discuss timing with your doctor.
Got Your Medical Sorted?
Once you've confirmed you meet the medical requirements, you're ready to find the perfect dive center.