Choosing the right visa is crucial for anyone planning to work in the UAE. Understanding the differences between the Mission Visa and Employment Visa is essential, as each serves distinct purposes for short-term or long-term work.
What is a Mission Visa?
A Mission Visa is a short-term visa intended for temporary or project-based work in the UAE. It is valid for up to 90 days and can be extended depending on the project’s duration, making it a flexible option for employers and workers.
What is an Employment Visa?
An Employment Visa is designed for long-term, full-time employment in the UAE. This visa includes a residency permit and is typically valid for 1-3 years, requiring additional steps like medical tests and obtaining an Emirates ID.
Key Differences Between Mission Visa and Employment Visa
Purpose and Validity
The Mission Visa is intended for temporary assignments or project work, usually valid for up to 90 days, with the possibility of extension. In contrast, the Employment Visa is for permanent, full-time roles and can last from 1 to 3 years, including residency benefits.
Residency and Processing
A Mission Visa does not offer residency and has a quicker processing time, which is ideal for short-term workers. On the other hand, the Employment Visa includes residency and takes longer to process due to the additional requirements like medical tests.
| factor | Mission Visa | employment visa |
|---|---|---|
Purpose |
Temporary/project work |
Full-time employment |
Validity |
90 days (extendable) |
1-3 years |
Residency |
Not included |
Residency permit included |
Processing Time |
Faster |
Longer |
Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
When to Choose Each Visa
The Mission Visa is best suited for short-term projects, consultancy roles, or trial periods. In contrast, the Employment Visa is ideal for workers seeking permanent positions that require residency in the UAE.
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