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Work Permits and Employment Visas

Details on work permits, employer sponsorship, and regulations for expatriates working in the UAE.

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Comprehensive Guide to Work Permits and Employment Visas in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE is a global hub for business and employment, attracting millions of expatriates annually. To work legally in the UAE, foreign nationals must obtain a Work Permit and an Employment Visa. Below is a detailed guide covering all aspects of the process, including regulations, costs, procedures, documentation, and cultural considerations.

1. Overview of Work Permits and Employment Visas in the UAE

  • Work Permit: Issued by the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), this document allows foreign nationals to work legally in the UAE.
  • Employment Visa: A residency visa tied to employment, issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate where the applicant will work.

Both documents are interlinked and are typically arranged by the employer. The process involves multiple steps, including obtaining initial approval, medical tests, and residency stamping.

2. Relevant National Regulations

  • Labour Law: The UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) governs employment relationships, including work permits and visas.
  • Sponsorship System: Employers act as sponsors for foreign employees, handling most of the application process.
  • Free Zones: Companies in UAE free zones operate under different regulations, and work permits for free zone employees are issued by the respective free zone authority rather than MOHRE.
  • Emiratisation: The UAE government prioritizes hiring Emirati nationals in certain sectors. Expatriates are still widely employed, but some industries may have quotas for Emirati workers.

3. General Costs

The costs of obtaining a work permit and employment visa vary depending on the applicant’s skill level, the employer’s category, and the emirate. Below are approximate costs:

Work Permit Fees (MOHRE)

  • Skill Level 1 (Highly Skilled Workers): AED 300–700
  • Skill Level 2 (Skilled Workers): AED 500–1,200
  • Skill Level 3 (Unskilled Workers): AED 1,200–2,000

Employment Visa Fees

  • Entry Permit: AED 500–1,200
  • Medical Test: AED 250–500
  • Emirates ID Application: AED 100–300 (per year of validity)
  • Residency Visa Stamping: AED 500–1,000

Additional Costs

  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for all employees; costs vary by coverage and employer.
  • Security Deposit: Some employers may require a refundable deposit for visa processing.

Employers typically bear these costs, but it is essential to confirm this during the job offer negotiation.

4. Standard Procedures

The process for obtaining a work permit and employment visa involves several steps:

Step 1: Job Offer and Contract

  • The employer provides a formal job offer and employment contract, which must comply with UAE Labour Law.
  • The contract is registered with MOHRE.

Step 2: Initial Work Permit Approval

  • The employer applies for an initial work permit through MOHRE.
  • Approval is granted based on the applicant’s qualifications, the employer’s compliance with labour laws, and the availability of Emirati workers for the role.

Step 3: Entry Permit

  • Once the work permit is approved, the employer applies for an Entry Permit (valid for 60 days) to allow the employee to enter the UAE.

Step 4: Medical Test

  • After arriving in the UAE, the employee undergoes a mandatory medical fitness test at an approved health center. Tests include:
    • Blood tests for infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B).
    • Chest X-ray for tuberculosis.
  • A medical fitness certificate is issued upon passing.

Step 5: Emirates ID Application

  • The employee applies for an Emirates ID, a mandatory identification card for all UAE residents.

Step 6: Residency Visa Stamping

  • The employer submits the employee’s passport to the GDRFA for residency visa stamping.
  • The visa is typically valid for 1–3 years, depending on the employment contract.

Step 7: Labour Card Issuance

  • For non-free zone employees, a Labour Card is issued by MOHRE, confirming the employee’s legal work status.

5. Required Documentation

Applicants must provide the following documents during the process:

From the Employee

  1. Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
  2. Passport-sized photographs (white background).
  3. Educational certificates (attested by the UAE Embassy in the home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
  4. Medical fitness certificate (after arrival in the UAE).
  5. Emirates ID application form.

From the Employer

  1. Trade license copy.
  2. Establishment card copy.
  3. Labour establishment card (for non-free zone companies).
  4. Job offer letter and employment contract.

6. Processing Times

The processing time for work permits and employment visas varies but generally follows this timeline:

  • Initial Work Permit Approval: 5–10 business days.
  • Entry Permit Issuance: 2–5 business days.
  • Medical Test and Emirates ID Application: 3–5 business days.
  • Residency Visa Stamping: 5–7 business days.

In total, the process may take 2–4 weeks, depending on the employer’s efficiency and the applicant’s compliance with requirements.

7. Country-Specific Considerations

  • Attestation of Documents: Educational and professional certificates must be attested in the applicant’s home country and the UAE. This can be a time-consuming process, so plan accordingly.
  • Health Requirements: Applicants with certain medical conditions (e.g., HIV, tuberculosis) may be denied a work permit.
  • Age Restrictions: The minimum age for work permits is 18. There is no official maximum age, but workers over 65 may incur higher fees.
  • Dependents: Employees earning a minimum salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 with accommodation) can sponsor their family members for residency visas.

8. Cultural Aspects to Consider

  • Workplace Etiquette: The UAE workplace is multicultural, but respect for local customs and Islamic traditions is essential. Dress modestly and avoid discussing sensitive topics like religion or politics.
  • Public Holidays: Be aware of Islamic holidays, such as Ramadan, when working hours may be reduced.
  • Language: While English is widely spoken in workplaces, learning basic Arabic phrases can be helpful and appreciated.

9. Key Tips for Applicants

  1. Verify Job Offers: Ensure the job offer is legitimate and the employer is registered with MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
  2. Understand Your Contract: Review the employment contract carefully, including salary, benefits, and termination clauses.
  3. Stay Updated: UAE immigration laws and fees may change frequently. Check official government websites (e.g., MOHRE, GDRFA) for the latest information.
  4. Health Insurance: Confirm that your employer provides health insurance, as it is mandatory for all employees.

By following this guide, applicants can navigate the UAE’s work permit and employment visa process with confidence. For further assistance, consult your employer or a licensed immigration consultant.