Fujairah

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Comprehensive Guide to Work Permits and Visas in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is a growing hub for employment opportunities, particularly in industries such as shipping, logistics, construction, tourism, and oil and gas. If you are planning to work in Fujairah, you will need to obtain the appropriate work permit and visa. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Types of Work Permits and Visas in Fujairah

In the UAE, including Fujairah, work permits and visas are regulated by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The following are the main types of work permits and visas:

a. Employment Visa

  • Purpose: Allows foreign nationals to legally work in Fujairah.
  • Eligibility: Issued to individuals who have secured a job offer from a UAE-based employer.
  • Validity: Typically valid for 2-3 years, depending on the employment contract.

b. Mission Work Permit

  • Purpose: Short-term work permit for temporary assignments.
  • Eligibility: Issued for individuals hired for specific projects or short-term employment.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days, renewable once.

c. Freelance Work Permit

  • Purpose: For self-employed individuals or freelancers in specific industries (e.g., media, technology, education).
  • Eligibility: Issued to individuals who wish to work independently without being tied to a single employer.
  • Validity: 1 year, renewable.

d. Domestic Worker Visa

  • Purpose: For individuals employed as domestic workers (e.g., nannies, housekeepers, drivers).
  • Eligibility: Sponsored by the employer (UAE resident or citizen).
  • Validity: 1-2 years, depending on the contract.

e. Golden Visa (Work-Related)

  • Purpose: Long-term residency for highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs.
  • Eligibility: Issued to individuals with exceptional skills in fields like science, technology, healthcare, or business.
  • Validity: 5-10 years.

2. Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for work permits and visas in Fujairah depend on the type of visa and the applicant's qualifications. Below are the general requirements:

a. Employment Visa

  • A valid job offer from a UAE-based employer.
  • The employer must be registered with MOHRE and have a valid trade license.
  • The applicant must meet the qualifications and experience required for the job.
  • The applicant must pass a medical fitness test.

b. Mission Work Permit

  • A short-term employment contract or project-based assignment.
  • Sponsorship by a UAE-based company.

c. Freelance Work Permit

  • Proof of expertise in the chosen field (e.g., portfolio, certifications).
  • No objection certificate (NOC) from the current employer (if applicable).
  • Registration with a free zone that offers freelance permits (e.g., Fujairah Creative City Free Zone).

d. Domestic Worker Visa

  • Sponsorship by a UAE resident or citizen.
  • The sponsor must meet the minimum income requirement to hire a domestic worker.

e. Golden Visa

  • Exceptional qualifications or achievements in a specific field.
  • Sponsorship by an employer or self-sponsorship (depending on the category).

3. Application Procedures

The application process for work permits and visas in Fujairah involves several steps. Below is a general outline:

Step 1: Job Offer and Employment Contract

  • Secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer.
  • The employer will draft an employment contract and submit it to MOHRE for approval.

Step 2: Entry Permit

  • The employer applies for an entry permit (valid for 60 days) to allow the employee to enter the UAE and begin the visa process.

Step 3: Medical Fitness Test

  • Undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical center in Fujairah.
  • Tests include screening for infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.

Step 4: Emirates ID Application

  • Apply for an Emirates ID at an ICP service center. This is a mandatory identification card for all UAE residents.

Step 5: Work Permit and Residency Visa

  • The employer applies for the work permit and residency visa on behalf of the employee.
  • The residency visa is stamped in the employee’s passport.

4. Required Documentation

The following documents are typically required for work permits and visas in Fujairah:

  1. For the Employee:

    • Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
    • Passport-sized photographs (with a white background).
    • Educational certificates (attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
    • Medical fitness test results.
    • Emirates ID application form.

  2. For the Employer:

    • Copy of the company’s trade license.
    • MOHRE establishment card.
    • Employment contract.

  3. Additional Documents (if applicable):

    • No objection certificate (NOC) from the current employer (for freelance permits).
    • Proof of qualifications or achievements (for Golden Visa applicants).

5. Costs and Processing Times

Costs

  • Employment Visa: AED 2,000–5,000 (varies based on the company’s classification and the employee’s skill level).
  • Mission Work Permit: AED 500–1,000.
  • Freelance Work Permit: AED 7,500–15,000 (depending on the free zone).
  • Domestic Worker Visa: AED 5,000–7,000.
  • Golden Visa: AED 4,000–6,000 (application fees only; additional costs may apply).

Processing Times

  • Employment Visa: 2-3 weeks.
  • Mission Work Permit: 5-10 business days.
  • Freelance Work Permit: 1-2 weeks.
  • Domestic Worker Visa: 2-3 weeks.
  • Golden Visa: 1-2 months.

6. Where to Apply

Applications for work permits and visas can be submitted through the following channels:

  1. Employer’s PRO (Public Relations Officer):

    • Most employers handle the application process on behalf of their employees.

  2. MOHRE Website or App:

  3. ICP Website or App:

  4. Fujairah Creative City Free Zone:

  5. TASHEEL Centers:

    • Government service centers that assist with visa and work permit applications.

7. Local Considerations and Regulations

  • Sponsorship Requirement: All work permits and visas require sponsorship by an employer, free zone, or individual (for domestic workers).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and workplace etiquette.
  • Labor Law Compliance: Familiarize yourself with UAE labor laws, including working hours, leave entitlements, and end-of-service benefits.
  • Health Insurance: Employers are required to provide health insurance for their employees.
  • Residency Renewal: Work permits and residency visas must be renewed before expiration to avoid fines.

8. Key Tips for Job Seekers in Fujairah

  • Research Employers: Verify the legitimacy of the employer and ensure they are registered with MOHRE.
  • Free Zones: Consider working in Fujairah’s free zones, such as Fujairah Free Zone or Creative City, which offer streamlined visa processes.
  • Networking: Leverage professional networks and job portals to find opportunities.
  • Language: While English is widely spoken, learning basic Arabic phrases can be helpful.

By following this guide, you can successfully navigate the process of obtaining a work permit and visa in Fujairah, UAE. Ensure you comply with all legal requirements and seek assistance from your employer or a professional service provider if needed.