For so many, the UAE is a land of opportunities. Each year, professionals flock here to chase rewarding careers. With eyes full of dreams, they want to enjoy the high standard of living that the UAE offers. The place is a perfect destination to secure a brighter future. The country welcomes global talent with open arms, as nearly 88% of the UAE’s population is made up of expatriates.
Secure a UAE work permit before jumping to work in any Emirate. The process may sound complex, but it’s not. Only you’ve to understand the steps and prepare the right documents, and it becomes much simpler.
The article gives detailed insights into UAE work permits. Learn the different types available, the requirements, and the steps to apply.
Significance of Work Permit in the UAE
A work permit is an official document that permits you to work in the UAE. Without it, you can’t legally hold a job or open a bank account. It’s your ticket to access essential services. In other words, it’s your key to starting a professional journey in the world’s fastest-growing economies.
UAE stands out due to the job market across the top sectors. This includes finance, technology, healthcare, and hospitality. The tax-free income makes the UAE unique from others. This leads to more savings. UAE’s multicultural environment with professionals from over 200 nationalities. Moreover, the global connectivity is making it easy to travel for business and leisure in the UAE.
UAE Work Visas Types
The UAE offers different work visas. Each visa matches diverse career needs. We’ll list down every type, who it’s for, and its key features.
Standard Work Visa:
Under this visa, professionals are employed by UAE companies. The standard visa is valid for 2–3 years and requires employer sponsorship.
Green Visa:
The green visa is launched for freelancers and self-employed individuals. The visa is valid for 5 years with no sponsor needed. However, this visa allows you to sponsor family members.
Golden Visa:
A golden visa is for highly skilled professionals, including scientists, doctors, investors, and creatives. The visa offers 10-year validity and unlimited family sponsorship with premium benefits.
Types of UAE Work Permits
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation issues 13 types of work permits. Different types of work permits cater to a specific work arrangement. You’ll explore each type in this blog section:
Permit Type |
Purpose |
Details |
| Work Permit/Recruiting Workers from Abroad | Hire employees outside the UAE | Covers residence visa, medical tests, and Emirates ID |
| Transfer Work Permit | Move workers between UAE companies | Allows smooth job switching |
| Relative-Sponsored Permit | For residents under family sponsorship | The employer applies only for the work permit |
| Temporary Work Permit | For projects up to 6 months | Best for short-term roles |
| One-Mission Permit | For one-time project roles | Employment ends after project completion |
| Part-Time Permit | Work for multiple employers | Requires at least 20 hrs/week |
| Juvenile Permit | For workers aged 15–18 | Limited working hours and restrictions |
| Student Permit | For training and part-time work | Valid for 3 months |
| Freelance Permit | Independent professionals | No employer needed |
| Private Teacher Permit | For private lessons | Available for teachers and students |
| Golden Visa Permit | For Golden Visa holders | Allows job switching easily |
| UAE & GCC Citizen Permit | For Gulf nationals | Encourages local hiring |
| National Trainee Permit | For Emirati graduates | Focused on skill-building |
UAE Work Visa Requirements
The requirements for a work visa depend on your visa type. Below, we’ve shared a general document required:
Requirement From the Employee:
The workers are needed to gather an original passport with validity, passport-size photos, an entry permit, an Emirates ID application form, medical test results from an approved UAE health center, and attested academic certificates.
Requirements From the Employer:
Employers require a company trade license, an establishment card, and an employment contract signed by both parties.
How to Get a UAE Work Permit: Steps Involved
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the steps to obtain a work permit in the UAE. We’ll break down the process into manageable steps:
Step 1: Entry Visa Quota Approval
The employer applies for an entry visa quota with MOHRE. For free zone companies, meeting office space requirements is mandatory.
Step 2: Employment Contract Signing
The employer issues a contract in Arabic, English, and your native language. You must sign and return it within 14 days.
Step 3: Work Visa Application
The employer submits the signed contract and applies for your work visa and entry permit.
Step 4: Entry into the UAE
- If you’re outside the UAE, enter with an Employment Entry Visa.
- If you’re already in the UAE, apply for a Change of Status.
You must complete all formalities within 60 days of entry.
Step 5: Residence Visa Application
The employer applies for your residence visa, which allows you to legally live in the UAE.
Step 6: Emirates ID Application
Apply within 15 days of arrival. Bring your original passport and entry permit.
Step 7: Medical Examination
Complete mandatory health checks for diseases like HIV, TB, and hepatitis within 14 days.
Step 8: Upload Labor Contract
The signed contract must be uploaded to the MOHRE website.
Step 9: Health Insurance
The employer must provide medical insurance coverage.
Step 10: Final Work & Residence Visa
Once approved, you’ll receive your Emirates ID linked to your residence visa, no stamping needed anymore.
Reasons for Work Permit Delays or Rejections
Keep these points in mind to avoid setbacks:
- Submitting incomplete or false documents
- Employer not registered with MOHRE
- The company is failing to comply with labor laws (like the Wages Protection System)
- Health test failures due to communicable diseases
Practices for a Smooth Work Visa Process
First of all, double-check all documents before submission. You should keep at least 6 months’ passport validity. Moreover, get educational certificates attested in advance. Staying updated on new UAE labor and visa regulations is a plus. For guidance, rely on your employer or a trusted agency.
Findings
Getting a UAE work permit isn’t a long journey; it becomes simple once you break it into steps. Allowing you to easily settle into your new role without hassle. The right preparation and cooperation from your employer is the key. The UAE offers a workplace and a hub for global talent. Coupled with innovation and growth. Here, securing your work permit is the first step toward building your dream career!
Require assistance? Be a partner of Al-Buraq. Their team holds your hand, and you’ll have their support until you get your work permit. Get in touch today and kick-start your career in the UAE!
FAQs
1. How long does the UAE work permit process take?
The initial approval for a UAE work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation usually takes about 5 to 7 working days. Completing the full process — including medical checks, Emirates ID application, and residence visa activation — generally takes 2 to 4 weeks, provided all documents are in order.
2. Can I start working in the UAE with only a work permit?
No, a work permit alone does not allow you to work legally. It is only a preliminary clearance. To legally live and work in the UAE, you must also obtain a residence visa and, in most cases, an Emirates ID.
3. What happens if I want to change employers in the UAE?
Since UAE work visas are tied to a specific employer, switching jobs requires your current visa to be canceled. The new employer must then apply for a new work permit and visa on your behalf.
4. Is a medical test required for all work visa applicants? What does it include?
Yes, all applicants must pass a medical fitness test at an approved UAE health facility. The screening usually includes blood tests and checks for infectious diseases such as HIV, TB, and hepatitis. Failing the test can result in visa denial.
5. How do different UAE visa types affect employment and benefits?
The type of visa determines your sponsorship, validity period, and privileges:
- Standard Work Visa: Employer-sponsored, valid for 2–3 years.
- Green Visa: For freelancers or self-employed professionals; allows family sponsorship and does not require an employer sponsor.
- Golden Visa: For highly skilled professionals, investors, or scientists; offers long-term residency and additional benefits.
