The UAE has become the most sought-after destination. The professionals are on top and find it an ideal place to start their careers. Famous for its economy and world-class infrastructure globally. The Emirate has a growing expat community. It is no longer a surprise that many foreigners are drawn to work in the UAE.
- Types of UAE Work Visas
- Eligibility Requirements for UAE Work Visas
- Documents Required for a UAE Employment Visa
- Steps for Obtaining a UAE Work Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Key Considerations Before Applying for a Work Visa
- Why Choose an Employer of Record for UAE Work Visas?
- Why Choose Connect Staff to Obtain Your UAE Employment Visa:
- Conclusion
Expats must know the UAE’s work visa process before job relocation. The guide provides all the necessary information. The step-by-step process is defined to:
- Understand the UAE employment visa process, including
- The different types of work visas available
- Their required documents, and
- The application procedure.
Types of UAE Work Visas
Understand the different types of visas available. It is essential before applying for a work visa in the UAE. However, it depends on your job and qualifications. Find which option is suitable for you:
| Visa Type | Description | Duration | Eligibility |
| Standard Work Visa | The most common type requires employer sponsorship. This visa is ideal for regular employees. | 2-3 years | Requires a signed employment contract and approval from MoHRE. |
| Green Visa | A visa designed for freelancers, investors, and skilled workers without employer sponsorship. | 5 years | Available for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors. |
| Golden Visa | A long-term residency visa for individuals with exceptional qualifications, like doctors or scientists. | 10 years | Reserved for highly skilled professionals and investors. |
Standard Work Visa
The most commonly used visa for foreign nationals. Standard Work Visa used by those working in the UAE. It is sponsored by an employer. The employer must apply on behalf of the worker. The workers can live and work in the UAE. The visa is valid for 2 to 3 years. The visa must be renewed after this period. In some cases, it may be canceled.
Green Visa
The Green Visa targets freelancers. The visa was introduced in 2022. Also, best for skilled workers. The visa offers more flexibility. It does not require employer sponsorship. It is a preferred option for self-employed professionals. Investors can also avail of it. Further, the Visa offers longer residency for 5 years. The visa holder avails of additional benefits. They can sponsor immediate family members.
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa for UAE is a long-term residency visa. It is designed for exceptional individuals, including:
- Doctors
- Scientists
- Artists, and
- Inventors
The visa offers numerous benefits. No need for employer sponsorship. The visa holders can live for up to 10 years
Eligibility Requirements for UAE Work Visas
Expats must meet the requirements to apply for a work visa. These specific requirements may vary slightly. It primarily depends on the visa type. However, here are the general conditions. They are set by the MoHRE:
| Criteria | Requirements |
| Age | Applicants must be over 18 years old. |
| Employer | Must have a valid operating license by employer |
| Educational Qualification | Minimum a high school diploma or equivalent. |
| Medical | Medical test results from a government-approved clinic. |
| No Criminal Record | Applicants have no criminal record. |
Documents Required for a UAE Employment Visa
The following documents are required for all UAE work visa application types. Note that, additional documents may be requested. However, it is based on the applicant’s job and visa type.
| Document | Details |
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least six months. |
| Passport-sized Photos | Must meet UAE specifications. |
| Entry Permit | Issued by the Ministry of Labor (MoL). |
| Medical Certificate | Conducted at a government-approved clinic. |
| Educational Qualifications | Must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. |
| Employment Contract | Must be signed by both employee and employer. |
| Employer Documents | Commercial license, company registration details. |
You might think about how to process an employment visa process in UAE. We are heading towards the most important part. Keep reading the article!
Steps for Obtaining a UAE Work Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
After understanding the different visa types. Previously, talked about document requirements as well. Now, we are going to dive into the steps to obtain your UAE work visa. Typically, the employment visa process UAE is divided into three stages:
- Obtaining an entry visa
- Applying for an Emirates ID, and
- Applying for a work visa and residence visa.
Stage 1: Obtaining an Employment Entry Visa
- Employer Applies for Entry Visa Approval
- The first step is for the employer to apply for entry visa quota approval. This step is required for employers in free zones, as they have a visa quota based on office space.
- Submit Signed Employment Contract
- For approval, the employer submits a signed contract to the MoL. This contract will be in multiple languages. These include Arabic, English, and the applicant’s native language.
- Submit Work Visa Application
- The employer applies for the work visa after contract approval. The MoL checks that there are no eligible UAE nationals for the position.
- Receive Employment Entry Visa
- Once approved, the MoL issues an entry visa (pink visa) allowing the employee to enter the UAE. This visa is usually valid for two months for standard and Green visa holders and six months for Golden visa holders.
Stage 2: Applying for Emirates ID
- Apply for Emirates ID
The employee must apply for an Emirates ID upon entering the UAE. This ID serves as a national identity card. It is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Healthcare
- Banking, and
- Government services.
The employee must visit an Emirates Identity Authority center to apply. Along with their passport and entry visa.
Stage 3: Medical Check and Work Visa
- Medical Checkup
Every applicant must undergo a medical checkup. For this, they go to a government-approved health center. The results proceed with the work visa and residence visa applications.
- Submit Labor Contract
The employer uploads the signed labor contract to the MoL website. The must do so within 14 days of receiving the medical results.
- Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all UAE employees. Employers must provide coverage for their employees and dependents in some Emirates. These can be Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, other Emirate workers must arrange their own health insurance.
- Receive Work Visa
After completing the medical screening and submitting the necessary documents, the MoL will process and issue the work visa. This allows employees to officially start working in the UAE.
- Residence Visa
The worker must apply for a residence visa. The visa is valid for up to two years. It is linked to the work visa. Expats need this visa for everyday tasks like:
- Opening a bank account
- Renting property, and
- Registering a vehicle.
Key Considerations Before Applying for a Work Visa
The employment visa requires sponsorship from a local employer. It can be a barrier for foreign companies. Those looking to hire in the UAE. Companies without a UAE entity can work with an Employer of Record. An EOR handles all aspects of employment in the UAE, including obtaining work visas, managing payroll, and ensuring compliance with local labor laws.
Why Choose an Employer of Record for UAE Work Visas?
An Employer of Record (EOR) allows global companies to employ talent in the UAE without needing a local entity. The EOR manages the entire visa and compliance process. Their presence saves the UAE employment visa process time and money. Meanwhile, avoiding legal risks. By partnering with an EOR, companies can ensure that their employees are legally employed while navigating the complex visa and employment requirements in the UAE.
Why Choose Connect Staff to Obtain Your UAE Employment Visa:
Connect Staff worked for many years, delivering different clientele with complicated tasks. An assurance to our new clients that we are not new, we have been serving for since long! Our proficiency lies in fulfilling the needs of both workers and employers alike. We provide a way to connect potential employees to employers. Working as a bridging gap between both. The expats who want to have a fresh start in the UAE can rely on us blindfolded. We deal with their case with our utmost responsibility. Obtain your visa easily and quickly by reaching out to us!
We also assist in work permit outsourcing. Get guidance on work visa outsourcing and rest assured that you have a professional’s back!
Conclusion
The employment visa process in UAE can seem complicated. However, all you need is the right information and support. This way, it becomes a straightforward task. Understanding the steps is essential for both an employee and an employer. Document requirements and types of visas are crucial as well. This ensures a smooth and successful application.
Easily relocate to the UAE by following this guide. Start working with experts when necessary. Let’s begin your new professional journey in the world’s famous region today!
