UAE Work Visas and Permits

Types of Work Permits in the UAE

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) issues the UAE work permit for both private and government sectors.

UAE Work Visa Types:

If you apply for a job in the UAE, you can choose from three types of UAE work visas. They are as follows:

UAE Work Permit Types:

There are 13 types of UAE work permits available. They are:

Requirements for UAE Work Visa and Permits 

Securing a permit for a city in the UAE like a Dubai work permit visa starts with adhering to the regulations set by the UAE government. This is necessary, especially when you are dealing with international business challenges such as legal subordination, workforce mobility, and regulatory changes. 

Employers are responsible for sponsoring work visas, while employees must provide the necessary documentation to complete the application.

Work Visa Requirements UAE:

The required documents for an employment visa in UAE vary by visa category. Below is a general list of supporting documents needed for an application:

Documents required from the employee:

• Original passport and a copy
• Passport-sized photos (as per UAE requirements)
• Emirates ID card
• Entry permit from the Ministry of Labor (MoL)
• Medical certificate from a government-approved UAE health center
• Attested academic qualifications (authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in the employee’s home country)

Documents required from the employer:

• Commercial license of the company
• Company establishment card

UAE Work Permit Requirements:

Employers are responsible for submitting all relevant documentation to MOHRE for a UAE work permit visa.

The work permits UAE requirements are:

• The employee must have an official job offer from a UAE-based company.
• Employees must undergo a medical examination to confirm they are free from contagious diseases.
• Attested educational certificates are required for professional or skilled roles.
• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• An entry permit, issued by MOHRE, to legally enter the UAE for employment.

How to Apply for UAE Work Visa and Permits

While you apply for the visa and work permit, first note down the process carefully. Frequent changes in visa regulations can make it a little confusing. Here is the step-by-step guide to your visa application.

How to Get a UAE Work Visa

A UAE work visa involves multiple steps. They are.

Step 1: Apply for entry visa quota approval

• Employers must apply through the Ministry of Labor (MOL) for approval.
• Free zone companies must meet specific office space and employment ratio requirements.
• Processing time is three working days.

Step 2: Submit a signed employment contract

• The employer provides a contract in English, Arabic, and the employee’s native language.
• The employee must sign and return it within 14 days.

Step 3: Submit work visa application and entry visa request

• The Ministry of Labor reviews the application if the employer complies with UAE hiring regulations.

Step 4: Get an employment entry visa

• Once approved, the employee receives an entry visa to enter the UAE for medical tests and ID registration.
• If the employee is already in the UAE on another visa, apply for a ‘Change of Status’ visa. If they are outside the UAE, enter with the ‘Employment Entry Visa’.
• Complete the process within 60 days of arrival.

Step 5: Apply for a residence visa

• The employer submits the residence visa application to the ICA within 60 days.

Step 6: Apply for an Emirates ID

• Apply within 15 days of arrival.
• An original passport and employment entry permit are required.

Step 7: Undergo a medical checkup

• Mandatory health screening within 14 days for contagious diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.

Step 8: Submit a labor contract

• The signed labor contract must be uploaded to the MOL website within 14 days of receiving medical results.

Step 9: Obtain health insurance

• Mandatory for all employees.
• The employer is responsible for providing coverage.

Step 10: Receive work/residence visa and start payroll

• Employees must have a valid residence visa to open bank accounts and access services.

Step 11: Visa stamping (updated process)

• No longer required, as the residence visa is linked to the Emirates ID.

How to Get a Work Permit in UAE

MoHRE issues work permits based on specific criteria. To apply for a UAE work permit, the employer (establishment) must:

• Hold a valid trade license.
• File application by an authorized signatory.

MoHRE may reject, refuse renewal, or cancel a work permit if:

• Incorrect or false documents are given.
• The company is fictitious or does not conduct actual business activities.
• The company is non-compliant with the Wages Protection System (WPS) or other labor regulations.

Looking to Hire in the UAE? Skuad Can Help

For businesses expanding into the UAE, handling visas, payroll, and compliance can be overwhelming. As the process is detailed and needs legal supervision, any mistake can cause delays or rejections. 

To simplify this, Skaud can help. Our Employer of Record (EOR) platform makes hiring easy. We handle work permits, visas, and background checks. Our team takes care of contracts, payroll, and employee onboarding.

With us, you can hire top talent in the UAE who will meet all requirements for a UAE employment visa. Our experts manage everything, so you can focus on growing your business. Book a demo with Skuad and expand without worrying about paperwork!

FAQs

How to get a work visa for the UAE?

Apply through your employer. They must obtain a work permit, entry visa, and residency visa on your behalf.

How much is a 2-year work visa in Dubai?

The cost of a Dubai work permit visa for two years ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000. It covers the medical tests and Emirates ID costs.

Can US citizens work in Dubai?

Yes, US citizens can work in Dubai with an employer-sponsored work visa and meet specific visa requirements for United Arab Emirates US citizens.

Can I get a work visa in Dubai without a job offer?

No, a valid job offer is a necessary part of the requirements for a work visa in Dubai. Employers sponsor the visa.

How much is a 1-year visa in the UAE?

The cost of a 1-year UAE work visa is around AED 2,500, excluding the medical charges and Emirates ID. On the mainland, it can go up to AED 7,000 or more, depending on the sector.