written by mr Saif
what is a work visa in the UAE?
A UAE Work Visa is an official permit that allows expatriates to live and work legally in the United Arab Emirates. It’s essential for accessing the country’s diverse job market and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
This page answers all your questions about the UAE Work Visa, including its types, application process, and benefits. Whether you’re planning to work in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates, this guide has you covered.
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Table of Contents
Work Visa types in the UAE
What Documents Are Required to Apply for a UAE Work Visa?
1. Valid Passport
The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the UAE and should have a minimum of two blank pages.
2. Offer Letter or Employment Contract
3. Educational and Professional Certificates
4. Passport-Sized Photographs
Recent passport-sized photographs in white Background that meet UAE specifications must be included in the application.
5. Medical Fitness Certificate
A medical fitness certificate from a UAE-approved health center is required. This certificate must confirm that the applicant is free from communicable diseases.(eg: HIV ,Tuberculosis)
6. Emirates ID Application Form
The Emirates ID application form, a mandatory identification document for UAE residents, must be completed.
7. Visa Application Form
The visa application form must be completed and submitted, either through the employer or directly to the UAE immigration department. PlusUAE can assist in filling out and submitting the visa application, ensuring all details are accurately provided for a smooth processing experience.
8. Dubai Insurance
After offer letter approval, Dubai Insurance is mandatory for employees. ILOE Insurance (Involuntary Loss of Employment) is also required. Companies like plusUAE can handle the insurance process, ensuring all necessary coverage is in place.
9. Labour Payment
Labour payment must be processed after obtaining Dubai Insurance. PlusUAE can assist with managing the labour payment process, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations.
10. Entry Permit and Status Change
For individuals outside the UAE, an Outside Entry Permit is required. For those inside the UAE, an Entry Permit must be processed, and a status change initiated.
11. Visa Stamping
The final step includes medical checks, Emirates ID application, and visa stamping to complete the work visa process. PlusUAE manages the entire procedure, ensuring all documents are accurately processed and handed over smoothly.
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Who Is Eligible for a UAE Work Visa?
Anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a UAE work visa, as long as they meet the standards set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). There is no upper age limit for employment in the UAE; however, companies must pay a higher fee for employees aged 65 and above.
Foreign workers are categorized into three groups based on their academic qualifications or skillsets. Category 1 includes individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree. Category 2 applies to those with a post-secondary diploma in any field. Category 3 covers workers with a high school diploma.
These classifications help determine the type of work visa issued and ensure workers are appropriately matched to their roles in the UAE.
You will need to pass a medical fitness test to confirm you’re free from communicable diseases. PlusUAE can assist in coordinating the medical process at government-approved health centers.
How to Apply for a UAE Work Visa
Step 1: Pre-approval from MOHRE
The first step is to obtain pre-approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for your work visa. PlusUAE’s expertise ensures this process is handled smoothly and efficiently.
Step 2: Pass a Medical Fitness Test
You will need to pass a medical fitness test to confirm you’re free from communicable diseases. PlusUAE can assist in coordinating the medical process at government-approved health centers.
Step 3: Obtain Your Emirates ID and Work Permit
After passing the medical test, you can proceed to obtain your Emirates ID and work permit. PlusUAE manages this step seamlessly, ensuring all necessary documents are processed without delays.
How Much Does a UAE Work Visa Cost?
The cost of a UAE work visa depends on the company’s category, as determined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Companies are classified into three categories based on compliance with labor laws and Emiratisation policies.
Category 1
Category 1 companies enjoy the lowest visa costs due to high compliance with labor regulations, workforce diversity, and adherence to Emiratisation guidelines. These companies prioritize legal and ethical practices, making their visa costs more affordable.
Category 2
Category 2 companies have varying costs based on their sub-classifications. These costs depend on the company’s level of compliance and diversity, which can influence the overall visa fee structure.
Category 3
Category 3 companies face the highest visa costs due to lower compliance levels and minimal adherence to labor regulations. This category typically involves higher expenses for visa processing.
The exact visa cost is determined by the company’s classification, with Category 1 being the most economical and Category 3 the most expensive. Confirm the company category and costs with your employer for clarity.
Validity, Renewal, and Cancellation
How Long Is a UAE Work Visa Valid?
A UAE work visa is valid for 2 years. Renewal should be initiated before the visa’s expiration to avoid penalties or interruptions in your legal status. Renewal costs and procedures depend on the company’s category and MOHRE guidelines. PlusUAE ensures a hassle-free renewal process, keeping you compliant with UAE regulations.
Cancellation Process UAE Work VIsa
Visa cancellation is typically handled by the employer when an employee resigns or completes their contract. The process involves submitting required documents to the MOHRE and immigration department. With PlusUAE’s expertise, this step is managed efficiently to avoid unnecessary delays.
What Happens If You Overstay Your UAE Work Visa?
Overstaying your visa in the UAE can lead to fines, legal action, or even a travel ban. Always renew or cancel your visa on time to stay compliant and avoid severe repercussions.
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FAQ
A UAE Work Visa, often referred to as a “residence visa for working inside UAE,” is an official permit that enables expatriates to live and work legally in the United Arab Emirates. It is a crucial requirement for anyone looking to pursue employment opportunities in the country.
This visa not only allows you to work in the UAE but also grants residency, giving you access to various benefits such as healthcare, housing, and other essential services. Without a work visa, engaging in any employment activity in the UAE is considered illegal and can result in penalties.
The process is typically employer-sponsored, where your hiring company applies for the visa on your behalf. It’s a seamless way for the UAE to ensure that its workforce is legal, contributing to a regulated and thriving economy.
Want to dive deeper into the specifics? refer : u.ae
To apply for a UAE Work Visa, the first step is to secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer. The company acts as your sponsor and handles the visa application process on your behalf.
Once the job offer is confirmed, your employer submits the required documents to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to obtain an initial work permit approval. This step ensures your eligibility to work legally in the UAE.
As part of the process, you will need to undergo a medical examination to confirm you are fit for work. Common tests include screenings for communicable diseases like tuberculosis and hepatitis.
You must also provide documents such as a valid passport, passport-sized photos, your academic qualifications, and the signed job contract. These documents are necessary to complete the residency visa processing.
After the visa approval, you will receive an entry permit to travel to the UAE and finalize the process. Once in the UAE, you’ll complete procedures like your Emirates ID application, medical fitness tests, and visa stamping.
For detailed guidelines and up-to-date requirements, visit the official ICA portal.
Yes, the UAE allows individuals to work as freelancers through a dedicated freelance visa. This visa is designed for professionals who prefer to work independently without being tied to a full-time employer.
To qualify for a freelance visa, you need to obtain a valid freelance license from authorized free zones in the UAE, such as Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, or Abu Dhabi’s twofour54. The license is essential for legally offering your services in the UAE.
The freelance visa is particularly popular among professionals in industries like media, IT, education, marketing, and design. It provides flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects for multiple clients.
Applicants typically need to submit their portfolio, proof of qualifications, a passport copy, and recent photographs. Some free zones may require a no-objection certificate (NOC) from your previous employer if you’re transitioning from full-time employment.
With the freelance visa, you gain access to benefits like residence in the UAE, access to coworking spaces in free zones, and the ability to sponsor family members.
For more information on obtaining your freelance license, visit the GoFreelance website.