How To Get A UAE Work Visa: A Complete Guide
Expanding into the UAE market offers businesses a gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, with a world-class logistics and transport infrastructure.
The UAE has a highly diversified economy, a stable political climate, and a pro-business regulatory environment that welcomes foreign investment.
Organizations expanding into the UAE benefit from its strong international connectivity, cultural openness, and high quality of life, which supports both business growth and talent attraction.
But for organizations and professionals choosing to do business there, understanding the UAE’s visa and immigration procedures is vital.
To ensure you remain on the right side of compliance, and avoid fines and reputational damage, in this guide I’ll outline all the UAE work visas, key requirements, and how to apply for them.
Types Of Work Visas in the UAE
The UAE offers several visa options tailored to different employment and residency needs.
These visas provide flexibility and opportunities for foreign nationals to live and work in the country while complying with immigration regulations.
Below are the main types of work permits that are available within the UAE.
1. Standard employment visa
This is the most common work visa, issued to individuals employed by a UAE-based company, and is typically valid for two to three years and is renewable.
The employer sponsors the visa, handling the application process, which includes obtaining a work permit and residence visa.
2. Green visa
The Green Visa allows skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals to sponsor themselves without the need for a UAE employer. It offers a five-year residency, providing greater flexibility and stability for professionals.
Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as holding a bachelor's degree and meeting income thresholds.
3. Golden visa
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) granted to investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and outstanding students.
It allows holders to live, work, and study in the UAE without a national sponsor and with 100% ownership of their business on the UAE's mainland. Eligibility varies based on the applicant's category and achievements.
4. Freelance visa
The Freelance Visa permits individuals to work as independent contractors in sectors like media, technology, and education. This visa offers flexibility to work with multiple companies and is typically valid for one to two years.
Applicants must obtain a freelance permit from a UAE free zone and can then apply for a residence visa.
5. Remote work visa (virtual working program)
This visa allows overseas professionals to live in the UAE while working remotely for companies outside the country. It's valid for one year and is renewable.
Applicants must provide proof of employment, a minimum monthly income of $3,500, and health insurance coverage.
Who Is Eligible For A UAE Work Visa?
To be eligible to obtain a UAE Work Visa, in general applications must meet the following criteria:
- Confirmed job offer from a UAE employer: Applicants must have a job offer from a UAE-registered company. The employer acts as the sponsor and is responsible for applying for the work permit and residency visa.
- Minimum age requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. There’s no strict upper age limit, but additional fees may apply for workers over 65.
- Medical fitness: Applicants must pass a medical fitness test in the UAE, which includes blood tests and a chest X-ray to rule out infectious diseases like HIV and tuberculosis.
- Educational/professional qualifications (if required): Depending on the job role, proof of qualifications or experience may be required. These documents must often be attested by relevant authorities.
- Clean criminal record: A police clearance certificate may be required to show a clean background.
- Visa category requirements: Eligibility can vary by visa type (e.g., Green, Golden, Freelance). Each category has its own income, education, or skills requirements.
Requirements For Obtaining A UAE Work Visa
These requirements apply across most visa types, though specifics can vary slightly depending on the visa.
- Valid Passport: Original passport with at least 6 months' validity and a clear photocopy of the passport (bio page and any UAE visa pages, if applicable).
- Passport-sized photographs: Recent photos with white background, matching UAE visa photo standards.
- Employment offer letter or contract: Signed by both employer and employee. Issued through the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) system.
- Entry permit (issued by immigration/employer): Allows the applicant to legally enter the UAE before your residency visa is processed.
- Medical fitness certificate: Must be obtained from an authorized UAE medical center and include blood tests and a chest X-ray (to check for TB, HIV, Hepatitis, etc.).
- Educational and professional certificates (if applicable): For skilled roles, degrees or diplomas may be required. These must be attested by the UAE embassy in the applicant’s home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Police Clearance Certificate (if requested): May be required depending on the job and visa type. Should be attested and translated into Arabic.
- Emirates ID Registration: Required for all residents, applicants must submit biometric data (photo, fingerprints) during the registration process.
- Residency Visa Application: Submitted after the applicant enters the UAE and typically stamped in their passport and valid for 1–3 years.
- Proof of Health Insurance: Mandatory in most Emirates (especially Abu Dhabi and Dubai) and usually arranged by the employer.
How To Apply For A UAE Work Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help employers and employees navigate the process of applying for a UAE standard employment visa, from securing a job offer to arriving in the UAE.
1. Secure a job offer
To begin the process, the applicant must have a confirmed job offer from a UAE-based employer. The employer will become their official sponsor and is responsible for initiating most of the paperwork.
Job offers must comply with UAE labor law and be registered through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
2. Employer applies for an entry permit (work permit)
The employer applies for an Entry Permit (eVisa) from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the relevant emirate.
This Entry Permit (also called a Pink Visa) allows the employee to enter the UAE legally for employment purposes.
It’s usually valid for 60 days, during which time the employee must complete the rest of the visa process inside the country.
3. Travel to the UAE
Once the Entry Permit is approved, the employee will receive an electronic copy to use at immigration when entering the UAE (remember, your passport must have at least six months’ validity).
They will enter on the Entry Permit and begin the in-country procedures to finalize their work and residency visa.
4. Undergo a medical fitness test
As mentioned, all foreign workers must undergo a medical fitness screening at an authorized UAE health center.
This includes:
- A blood test to check for infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis.
- A chest X-ray to check for tuberculosis.
The test results are typically issued within 24–48 hours. If the applicant is deemed medically unfit, the visa application will be denied.
5. Apply for an Emirates ID
While the medical test is being processed, the applicant also needs to apply for their Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
They must:
- Submit a copy of their passport and Entry Permit.
- Provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints).
- Pay the applicable fees.
The Emirates ID is the official UAE identification document and is required for accessing services like banking, phone registration, and housing.
Shortcut: Use An Employer Of Record Or Employee Relocation Service
While applying for a UAE work visa is relatively straightforward, navigating the visa application process can be time consuming, which is why many organizations choose to use an employer of record or employee relocation service.
Technically, an Employer of record service (EOR) is a third-party service that acts as the legal employer for your international hires while you retain full control over day-to-day management.
EORs handle a range of services, including worker relocation, ensuring compliance with immigration and labor laws, managing work permit and visa processes, and providing global payroll services.
This makes them an invaluable partner for businesses navigating Spain’s complex legal requirements for hiring foreign employees.
Alternatively, specialized employee relocation services exist to help manage relocations specifically.
Below, we've shortlisted some of the best employer of record services in the UAE.
Best Employer of Record Services in the UAE
If you’re ready to use an EOR service in the UAE, these are my top 10 recommendations:
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some answers to common FAQs about UAE work visas and permits.
Who is eligible for a UAE Work Visa?
Foreign nationals over the age of 18 with a valid job offer from a UAE-based employer are eligible for a UAE work visa. Applicants must meet health, skill, and educational requirements as specified by UAE labor laws, and the sponsoring employer must handle the application process.
Does the UAE offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes, the UAE offers a digital nomad visa, officially known as the Virtual Work Residence Visa. This program allows remote workers to live in the UAE for up to one year while working for employers or businesses based outside the country.
Applicants must have a valid passport, proof of remote employment or business ownership, a minimum monthly income of $3,500, and health insurance coverage valid in the UAE.
How long does it take to get a work permit in the UAE?
The processing time for a UAE work permit typically ranges from 5 to 7 working days, depending on the specific circumstances and government processing speeds.
What documents are required for a UAE work permit application?
To apply for a UAE work permit, you’ll need the following documents:
- Passport Copy: A clear copy of the applicant’s passport, valid for at least six months.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Educational Certificates: Copies of academic qualifications, certified by the UAE Embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Medical Certificate: A health certificate issued by a government-approved health center in the UAE.
- Employment Contract: A signed job offer or employment contract from a UAE employer.
- Company Documents: Copies of the employer’s valid trade license and company card.
Additional documents may be required based on the specific job role or industry.
How much does it cost to get a work permit in the UAE?
Visa fees range from AED 250 to AED 3,450. The cost varies based on factors such as the company’s classification and the employee’s skill level. Companies are categorized into A, B, or C, reflecting their compliance with UAE labor laws and the Wages Protection System.
Generally, employers are responsible for covering these costs.
How long is a UAE work permit valid for?
A UAE work permit is initially valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Once all residency requirements are completed, the work permit is typically valid for up to two years, depending on the employment contract and employer sponsorship.
How do you renew a UAE work permit?
Renewing a UAE work permit involves a process similar to the initial application and should be initiated well before the current permit’s expiration to maintain legal employment status. The employer, as the sponsor, is responsible for submitting the renewal application through the MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
The renewal process includes updating necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, medical fitness certificate, and any other required documents.
I recommend starting the renewal process at least 60 days prior to the permit’s expiration to ensure problem-free continuation of employment.
Are there separate requirements for a work permit to Dubai from other UAE emirates?
The UAE’s work permit requirements are standardized across all seven emirates, including Dubai. However, certain free zones within Dubai and other emirates may have specific regulations and processes.
It’s essential to consult the relevant free zone authority or local government body to ensure compliance with any additional requirements. Or, outsource these tasks to a local EOR partner that specializes in these processes.
How much does an Employer of Record charge in the UAE?
The cost of using an EOR service in the UAE varies based on the provider and the services required. Some EORs charge a flat monthly fee per employee, while others apply a percentage of the employee’s salary.
In general, EOR services in the UAE cost between $199 to $1,600 per employee, per month.
Some EOR service providers, like Remofirst, offer services starting at $199 USD per employee per month, whereas others, like Oyster HR or Deel charge $599 USD per employee per month.
Other EOR companies, such as Velocity Global, don’t actually disclose their EOR prices publicly, requiring you to request a personalized quote instead.
It’s essential to assess the specific services included in these fees, as additional charges may apply for customized solutions or extra services.
What are the risks of using an Employer of Record service?
While EOR services simplify international hiring, potential risks include loss of direct control over certain HR functions, reliance on the EOR’s compliance accuracy, and unexpected fees for additional services.
It’s crucial to select a reputable EOR with transparent pricing and proven expertise in managing employment laws in the UAE to mitigate these and other potential risks effectively.
The Bottom Line
Hiring or relocating employees to Dubai or other parts of the UAE is a rewarding opportunity, but it comes with complexities that demand careful navigation.
From securing work permits and visas to ensuring full compliance with immigration and labor laws, every step must be handled with precision to avoid legal and financial risks.
If your organization is expanding into the UAE, consider partnering with an Employer of Record to simplify the process and reduce compliance stress. With an EOR as your employment partner, you can outsource everything from work permit applications to global payroll services, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
To get started, evaluate your hiring goals, compliance needs, and the level of administrative support you require. Whether you’re building a remote team or relocating top talent, having the right resources and expertise ensures a seamless and compliant experience.
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This content is for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal advice. We recommend always following the advice of an employment lawyer or EOR partner before making any decisions to hire employees in the UAE.
