Work Visa Requirements in UAE
A UAE work visa starts with the employer. Your employer obtains the work permit from MoHRE on your behalf, and the permit leads to a residence visa, Emirates ID and Labour Card. The requirements are the ones you and the hiring company must meet.
Work visa requirements in the UAE are divided into categories based on worker qualification and skill sets.
- Category 1 is Bachelors degree or higher.
- Category 2 is Post Secondary diploma in any field.
- Category 3 is High School diploma.
The requirements of a UAE work visa are:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- The company hiring you must have a valid license.
- The company must not have any violations.
- Your work must correspond to the nature of the company hiring you.
Documents required for UAE work visa
When applying for an employment visa, you need:
- Original passport and a copy.
- Passport-size picture (in line with UAE requirements).
- Copies of your academic qualifications (authorized by the UAE Embassy and your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
- Medical certificate from a government-approved health centre in the UAE.
- Documents from the company hiring you (e.g., a commercial license or company card).
- Check the new UAE visa rules for recent changes.
Work permit issue
Your employer must obtain the work permit on your behalf from the MoHRE. The process typically takes about 5 working days.
Work permit fees
Fees for UAE work permits vary based on the worker’s category and age. In most cases, your employer will cover these costs.
Work permit validity
Initially, a work permit is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. During this time, you and your employer must arrange for a Residence Visa, Emirates ID, and Labour Card.
Work visa approval
After your work permit is approved, it serves as an entry permit, allowing you to enter the UAE for employment purposes. Your employer must then apply for a Residence Visa on your behalf.
If your visa has been cancelled, use the check immigration ban service to confirm whether a travel ban is recorded.
Employment visa procedure
- Once you enter the UAE, your employer must apply for a Residence Visa from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate where you’ll be employed. After approval, you’ll receive an Employment Visa, Emirates ID, and Labour Card.
You can check UAE visa status with passport while you wait to see whether your visa has been approved or rejected, and if any modifications are required.
Work visa renewal
- UAE work visas can be renewed, and your sponsor must apply for renewal within 30 days before it expires. The renewal procedure is similar to the new UAE visa application process.
Employment visa in Dubai
The process for obtaining a Dubai Employment Visa is the same as in other emirates.
- Your employer will handle most of the application process, including applying for a Work Permit, Residence Card, Labour Card, and Emirates ID Card.
Meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documents ready before you apply. After applying for a work visa, use visa status check UAE to verify the procedure.
Related guides: UAE Guides
