Ras Al Khaimah

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Work Permits and Visas

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Comprehensive Guide to Work Permits and Visas in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is a growing hub for business and employment opportunities. If you are planning to work or employ workers in Ras Al Khaimah, understanding the work permit and visa process is essential. Below is a detailed guide covering the types of work permits and visas, costs, procedures, and local considerations.

1. Overview of Work Permits and Visas in Ras Al Khaimah

In the UAE, including Ras Al Khaimah, 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). To legally work in Ras Al Khaimah, foreign nationals must obtain:

  • A work permit (issued by MOHRE).
  • A residence visa (sponsored by the employer).

These documents are interlinked, and the employer is typically responsible for initiating and managing the application process.

2. Categories of Work Permits and Visas

The UAE offers various types of work permits and visas depending on the nature of employment and the applicant's qualifications. Below are the main categories:

A. Work Permits

  1. Standard Work Permit:

    • For full-time employment in private sector companies registered with MOHRE.
    • Applicable to skilled and unskilled workers.

  2. Temporary Work Permit:

    • For short-term employment or project-based work.
    • Valid for up to 6 months.

  3. Part-Time Work Permit:

    • For individuals working part-time for multiple employers.
    • Requires approval from the primary employer.

  4. Juvenile Work Permit:

    • For individuals aged 15–18 years.
    • Requires parental consent and adherence to labor laws for minors.

  5. Golden Visa Work Permit:

    • For individuals holding a UAE Golden Visa (long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals).
    • Allows work without a traditional employer sponsorship.

  6. Freelance Work Permit:

    • For self-employed individuals or freelancers in specific industries (e.g., media, technology, education).
    • Issued by free zones or MOHRE.

B. Residence Visas

  1. Employment Residence Visa:

    • Linked to the work permit.
    • Valid for 1–3 years, depending on the employment contract.

  2. Investor/Partner Visa:

    • For individuals investing in or owning a business in Ras Al Khaimah.
    • Valid for up to 3 years.

  3. Dependent Visa:

    • For family members of the employee (spouse, children, parents).
    • Requires proof of financial stability and accommodation.

  4. Golden Visa:

    • Long-term residency (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals.

3. Costs Involved

The costs for work permits and visas in Ras Al Khaimah vary based on the type of permit, the applicant's skill level, and the employer's classification. Below is a general breakdown:

A. Work Permit Costs

  • Application Fee: AED 200–300.
  • Issuance Fee: AED 300–5,000 (based on the company’s MOHRE classification and the worker’s skill level).
  • Renewal Fee: AED 300–5,000 (similar to issuance fees).

B. Residence Visa Costs

  • Medical Fitness Test: AED 250–500.
  • Emirates ID Application: AED 100–200 per year of validity.
  • Visa Stamping Fee: AED 500–1,000.
  • Health Insurance: AED 600–5,000 (depending on the coverage).

C. Additional Costs

  • Free Zone Work Permits: Costs vary by free zone but typically range from AED 5,000–15,000 annually.
  • Freelance Permits: AED 7,500–20,000 annually, depending on the free zone.

4. Step-by-Step Procedures for Obtaining a Work Permit and Visa

The process for obtaining a work permit and visa in Ras Al Khaimah involves several steps. Below is a detailed guide:

Step 1: Employer Registration

  • The employer must be registered with MOHRE and have a valid trade license.
  • The company must ensure compliance with labor laws and maintain a clean record.

Step 2: Job Offer and Contract

  • The employer provides the employee with a job offer letter and employment contract.
  • The contract must be registered with MOHRE.

Step 3: Work Permit Application

  • The employer submits the work permit application through the MOHRE online portal or a typing center.
  • Required documents:
    • Copy of the employee’s passport (valid for at least 6 months).
    • Passport-sized photographs.
    • Educational certificates (attested by the UAE Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
    • Medical fitness certificate (if applicable).

Step 4: Medical Fitness Test

  • The employee undergoes a medical fitness test at an approved health center in Ras Al Khaimah.
  • Tests include screening for infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, tuberculosis).

Step 5: Residence Visa Application

  • Once the work permit is approved, the employer applies for the residence visa.
  • Required documents:
    • Work permit approval.
    • Medical fitness certificate.
    • Emirates ID application receipt.
    • Health insurance policy.

Step 6: Emirates ID and Visa Stamping

  • The employee applies for an Emirates ID at an ICP service center.
  • The residence visa is stamped in the employee’s passport.

5. Local Considerations and Requirements

When applying for work permits and visas in Ras Al Khaimah, keep the following in mind:

A. Employer Responsibilities

  • Employers are responsible for covering the costs of work permits and visas.
  • Employers must provide health insurance for employees.

B. Employee Obligations

  • Employees must ensure their documents (e.g., passport, educational certificates) are valid and attested.
  • Employees must comply with UAE labor laws and the terms of their employment contract.

C. Free Zones in Ras Al Khaimah

  • Ras Al Khaimah has several free zones, such as RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone), which offer streamlined visa and work permit processes.
  • Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership and provide freelance permits.

D. Labor Law Compliance

  • The UAE labor law prohibits working without a valid work permit and visa.
  • Violations can result in fines, deportation, or a ban on re-entry.

E. Skill Levels and MOHRE Classification

  • MOHRE classifies workers into skill levels (1–5) based on qualifications and job roles.
  • Higher-skilled workers (Levels 1–3) have lower work permit fees.

6. Renewal and Cancellation

Renewal

  • Work permits and residence visas must be renewed before expiration.
  • The renewal process is similar to the initial application.

Cancellation

  • If the employee leaves the job, the employer must cancel the work permit and residence visa.
  • The employee must leave the UAE or transfer to a new employer within the grace period (30 days).

7. Key Contacts and Resources

By following this guide, you can navigate the work permit and visa process in Ras Al Khaimah with confidence. Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations to avoid any legal complications.