How to Get a UAE Work Visa

Overview of work visas in UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) work visa allows foreign nationals to work and reside in the country legally. It is typically issued as part of the UAE residency permit process and is required for expatriates seeking employment there. 

The UAE work visa options available to foreigners include the standard employment visa, the Green Visa, and the Golden Visa. Depending on the category and employer, these work visas typically cost between AED 3,000 and AED 7,500 ($800-$ 2,040). 

Most visas are valid for 2-3 years, while Green and Golden Visas offer 5-10 years of residency. You will need employer sponsorship (unless self-sponsored) and other documents required for employment visa in UAE. If it’s not approved, you must exit the UAE within 30 days unless a grace period applies.

Who needs a UAE work visa?

All foreign nationals who wish to work in the UAE must obtain both a work visa and a residency permit. UAE immigration law requires that anyone employed in the country, whether in the private sector, government, or a free zone, be officially sponsored by a UAE-based company.

Foreign nationals aged 18 and above are eligible for a UAE work visa if they meet the following conditions:

• The hiring company holds a valid trade licence and has no active violations with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
   
• The applicant’s job role matches the business activity listed on the company’s license.
   
• The applicant has at least a high school diploma or equivalent educational qualification.

Note: For applicants over 65 years old, the employer must pay an additional AED 5,000 every two years to cover the increased government processing fees.

Types of UAE work visas

The main types of the UAE work visas are the standard employment visa, the Green Visa, and the Golden Visa. Getting any of these work visas allows you to live and work legally in the country after passing medical tests and submitting the necessary documentation. Here’s what you should know

Standard work visa

This is the most commonly used UAE work visa, especially for private companies, government sectors, or free zone employees. It typically lasts two to three years and requires your employer to sponsor your application. You’ll need an approved employment contract from the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) and an entry permit to start your residency formalisation process upon arrival.  

Here are some case-specific standard work visa requirements

• If you are employed in the private sector, apply for a residency visa for a person working in the private sector.
• If you are employed in the government sector or a free zone, apply for a residency visa for an individual in (free zone)

UAE Green Visa

This visa is for skilled professionals, freelancers, and business owners. It offers more flexibility than the Standard UAE work visa. With this visa, you get a five-year residency without needing an employer to sponsor you. You can also sponsor your immediate family members. Here’s how you can apply;

Freelancers and/or self-employed people applying for a green visa must submit:

• a freelance/self-employment permit from MoHRE
• proof of education - bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma
• Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years. The amount must be more than AED 360,000 (approximately $99,000) or proof of financial solvency throughout your stay in the UAE.

Skilled employees applying for a green visa, must:

• have a valid employment contract
• be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per MoHRE
• hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 (approximately $4100) per month.

UAE Golden Visa

This long-term visa is aimed at highly skilled professionals, investors, and those with exceptional talents. It is valid for ten years and offers several advantages, such as exclusive health insurance packages, travel privileges outside the UAE for extended periods without affecting the visa’s validity and the ability to sponsor unlimited family members and domestic staff.  UAE golden visa requirements depend on the type of residence: investor, talent, entrepreneur, etc.

Investors in public investments may be granted a Golden Visa for 10 years without a sponsor must submit:

• a letter from an investment fund accredited in the UAE showing a deposit of AED two million or
• a valid commercial licence or industrial licence and a memorandum of association stating that the investor’s capital is not less than AED two million (approximately $545,000)
• a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating that the investor pays the government at least AED 250,000 (approximately $68,000) annually.

Real estate investors may be granted a Golden visa for 5 years without a sponsor, if you have

• a letter from the land department stating that you own properties valued over 2 million dirhams
• purchase of a property with a loan from specific local banks approved by the competent local entity.

Entrepreneurs may get a golden visa for 5 years. You must have an approval letter from each of the following:

• an auditor in the UAE stating that the project value is not less than 500,000 dirhams (approximately $136,000)
• the authorities in the emirate stating that the project is of a technical or future nature
• an accredited business incubator in the UAE to establish the proposed activity in the country.

Other requirements apply to unique cases, such as outstanding specialised talents, managing directors, creatives, athletes, and more. You should check the UAE golden visa page for information on the requirements. 

Key requirement for professionals is a minimum basic salary of AED 30,000 ($8,200) per month.

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UAE work permit categories and costs

The UAE classifies foreign workers into three skill-based categories, each tied to the applicant’s education level:

• Category 1: Bachelor’s degree or higher
   
• Category 2: Diploma holders
   
• Category 3: High school graduates

These categories influence the cost of obtaining a work permit, which the employer typically pays.

MoHRE work permit fees

• Application fee: AED 50 (applies to all categories)
   
• Issuance fee (valid for 2 years):
  
  
  • Category 1: AED 250
     
  • Category 2: AED 1,200
     
  • Category 3: AED 3,450

Note: For workers aged 65 and above, an additional AED 5,000 issuance fee applies regardless of category.

These fees are part of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s (MoHRE) standard processing structure and may vary slightly depending on the emirate or free zone involved.

UAE work visa requirements

To secure your UAE employment visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Confirmed employment: Before applying for your UAE work visa, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UAE employer. This offer should be officially documented because it is crucial for your visa application process.
2. Educational qualifications: Depending on the type of job and visa, you may need to provide proof of academic qualifications, typically a bachelor’s degree (or higher, for skilled positions).
3. Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the UAE. Having a valid passport is crucial to avoid any issues during the visa application process or at entry points.
4. Health and medical checks: The UAE mandates a medical fitness test for new employees coming from abroad. You’ll need to undergo a health checkup in your home country and again in the UAE, which usually screens for communicable diseases.
5. Age requirements: Generally, you must be over 18 to work in the UAE.
6. No criminal record: You should have a clean criminal record in your home country and other countries where you reside.

Documents required for employment visa in UAE 

When preparing your visa application, ensure your documents are correctly formatted and in the required languages. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your original passport and a copy.
• Coloured passport-size photos (white background)
• An Emirates ID card.
• An entry permit from the MoHRE.
• A medical certificate from a UAE-approved health centre.
• Copies of your academic qualifications, authorised by your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.
• Attested academic certificates by the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
• Your employer documents, such as their commercial licence and company card.
• Information about visa fees, including the different fees required for work permits and residency visas, to ensure compliance with regulations.

Note: All non-English or non-Arabic documents must be translated and certified by authorised translation services.

How to get a UAE work visa 

Follow these steps to get your UAE work visa:

Stage 1: Entry permit (Pre-arrival by Employer)

• Apply for entry visa quota approval: If you will be working in one of the UAE’s 46 free zones, your employer must first apply for visa quota approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
   
• Submit a work visa application: Once the quota is approved, your employer submits your signed work contract and visa application to the MoHRE. The ministry verifies that the company is registered and that no unemployed UAE citizen is eligible to fill the role.
   
• Get an employment entry visa (pink visa): After approval, the MoHRE issues an employment entry visa, also called a pink visa. This allows you to enter the UAE to formalise your work visa and start the residence visa process. If you’re already in the UAE on a different visa, you may need to adjust your visa status or briefly exit and re-enter the UAE to activate the new visa.

Stage 2: Upon arrival in the UAE (Employee's side)

• Apply for an Emirates ID: On arrival in the UAE, you must apply for an Emirates ID at an Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) centre. You need to provide biometrics like fingerprints and a photograph. The Emirates ID is essential for residency and is your main ID in the UAE. If you are on a tourist visa, note that its processing time is typically 3 to 4 working days.
   
• Get a medical checkup: Undergo a medical exam at a government-approved clinic. Tests usually screen for communicable diseases.
   
• Get health insurance: This is a mandatory requirement for all expatriates in the UAE. Some emirates (like Abu Dhabi and Dubai) require your employer to provide this for you, and in others (like Sharjah or other northern emirates), you may need to get yours.

Stage 3: Residence visa finalization (Employer's side)

• Submit a labour contract: Your employer needs to upload the approved labour contract to the MoHRE’s website within 14 days of receiving your medical results. This is part of formalising your work visa. During this period, you will also need to complete the residency visa process, which includes your presence for medical and biometric screenings.
   
• Receive your UAE work visa: It typically takes about five days for the MoHRE to issue your official work visa once all conditions are met. Once issued, you can legally start working in the UAE, and your employer will set up your payroll.
   
• Receive a UAE residence visa: Once all the prerequisites are met, you can apply for your residence visa. This visa is usually valid for two years and is renewable. It allows you to live in the UAE, open bank accounts, register vehicles, and more.

Pro Tip: One critical step in preparing to apply for a UAE work visa is ensuring that all documents not originally in Arabic or English have legal translations. Translayte can be your valuable partner in this process, offering authorised and reliable legal translation services that comply with the requirements of the UAE government agencies.

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UAE work visa application fees 

Understanding the costs of obtaining a UAE work visa is crucial for planning your move. Here’s a breakdown of the typical fees you can expect:

• Entry permit fee: AED 200-500 (approximately $50 - $150). This fee covers the initial permit allowing you to enter the UAE.
• Work visa fee: AED 200 (approximately$50). Additional fees apply if the sponsored person is inside the country.
• Emirates ID fee: AED 462 (approximately $130) for 2 years validity.
• Medical test fee: AED 250-360 (approximately $50- $100) depending on the work type. This fee covers the cost of the medical fitness test required for the visa.

Please note that these fees are subject to change and may vary depending on specific circumstances.

UAE work visa processing time

UAE work visa processing time generally takes between 2 weeks to 4 weeks. Sometimes, the processing time might be longer if there are delays or errors in documents submitted. Also, factors like visa type, application accuracy, and the current workload of UAE immigration authorities might extend the timeline. Here’s an overview of what to expect at each stage:

• UAE entry permit processing: This typically takes a few days to two weeks, but may be faster within the UAE free zones. In comparison, tourist visas usually have a quicker turnaround, typically taking 3 to 4 working days.
• Employment visa and residence visa processing: This generally takes two to four weeks.
• Medical tests and Emirates ID: Medical test results are usually ready within a few days. Emirates ID processing, including biometrics, can take up to two weeks.
• Work visa processing: This last step typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the efficiency of the local immigration office.

Here are more specific timeframes by visa type:

• Entry permit (Pink visa): 5 working days
• Standard work visa: 7–10 working days
• Green visa: 7–10 working days
• Golden visa: 5–7 working days

You can request expedited UAE work permit processing for urgent cases for an extra charge.

Fast-track option for urgent UAE work visas

If you need to start work in the UAE quickly, several agencies and Free Zones offer express visa services for an additional fee.

• Standard processing: 5–10 working days
• Express processing: 1–3 working days

This option is ideal for urgent assignments, client projects, or fast-track onboarding, especially in time-sensitive industries. Availability and timelines may vary by Free Zone or emirate, so check with your employer or visa sponsor for details.

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Checking UAE visa status

Keeping track of your visa status is essential to ensure no delays or issues with your application. Here’s how you can check your visa status:

• Visit the official UAE government website
• Click on 'Track Your Application Status'.
• Enter your Request Number and Passport Number to retrieve the status of your visa application.
• If you applied for a visa in Dubai, you can also visit the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs

GDRFA links by Emirate

You can use the official GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portals to check the status of your visa, apply for renewals, or get official updates. Each emirate has its own platform:

• GDRFA Dubai
• Abu Dhabi Residents Office (Abu Dhabi handles residency matters via ADRO)
• Sharjah Immigration
• Ajman Police General Headquarters
• RAK Government Portal (Ras Al Khaimah)
• Fujairah Police GHQ

These platforms allow residents and sponsors to manage applications, track visa status, and access e-services specific to each emirate.

Validity and renewal of work visas

UAE work visas are issued in two stages: an entry permit followed by a residence visa, each with its own validity terms and renewal process.

• Entry permit: Valid for 30 days and extendable once if needed. This allows the employee to enter the UAE and begin the visa formalities.
   
• Residence visa: Issued for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the type of employment and sponsoring company.

You can begin the renewal process up to 30 days before the visa expires. After the expiration date, there is usually a 30-day grace period during which you can renew the visa without incurring fines.

Renewals are processed through the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) for most emirates or Amer Centres for applications and renewals in Dubai. Ensure that you renew your work permit promptly to avoid penalties or disruptions to your legal residency and employment.

What happens after you arrive in the UAE?

Once you arrive in the UAE on your work permit, several key steps must be completed before you can officially start working:

1. Medical examination: Visit a government-approved clinic for mandatory medical tests, including screenings for communicable diseases.
    
2. Emirates ID biometrics: Submit your fingerprints and photo at an Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) centre as part of the Emirates ID application process.
    
3. Residence visa stamping: Your passport will be submitted for residence visa stamping, officially granting you long-term residency in the UAE.
    
4. Start work legally: Once your Labour Card and Emirates ID are issued, you can legally begin employmen,t and your employer can activate payroll and benefits.

These steps are usually completed within a few weeks, depending on processing times and documentation accuracy.

Can I change jobs in the UAE?

Yes, you can change jobs in the UAE, but several formalities must be followed:

• Your new employer must apply for a new work permit
• Your current employer must cancel your existing work visa
• A labour ban of 6 to 12 months may apply depending on your skill level and contract terms. However, skilled professionals (e.g., diploma holders and above) are often exempt from this ban.

Before resigning, it’s best to consult with the MoHRE or GDRFA to understand your rights and ensure a smooth job transition.

Do you need certified translations for your UAE work visa?

You’ll need certified translations for your UAE work visa if your original documents are not in Arabic or English. The UAE government requires that all official documents be submitted in one of these two languages, and that translations be accurate, legally recognized, and compliant with local regulations.

Certified translations ensure your documents are legally accepted by key authorities, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), UAE embassies, and free zone immigration offices.

These translations must be completed by a certified translator or agency recognised by the UAE Ministry of Justice. If the documents are translated outside the UAE, they may also need to be legalized or apostilled in the country of origin, then submitted to a UAE embassy for final authentication.

Translayte offers fast, reliable, and fully certified translations in the UAE that are accepted by MoHRE, GDRFA, and UAE embassies. Whether you’re translating documents from French, Spanish, German, Russian, or any other language, our services ensure that your paperwork is fully compliant with UAE government requirements. We work with sworn translators and provide notarization and legalization support when needed, making your visa process smoother and more secure.

A critical step in preparing for your UAE work visa application is ensuring that all non-English or non-Arabic documents are properly translated and legalized before submission. This not only helps avoid delays but also ensures full compliance with UAE immigration requirements, allowing your visa process to move forward smoothly.