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Employment Visa (Work Visa) for Dubai - Types, Requirements, Cost, and Application Process

Duration

2 or 3 years, depending on the employer’s location (Mainland or Free Zone).

Eligibility
  • Individuals who have secured a job offer from a UAE based employer.
  • Must meet the required educational qualifications and work experience for the role.
  • The employer acts as the visa sponsor and handles the application process.
  • Open to professionals, skilled workers, and laborers depending on job type and employer license.

 

How to Apply
  • The employer/company applies for the work permit through MoHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emortisation).
  • Once approved, the applicant receives an entry permit to enter the UAE.
  • After arrival, the applicant undergoes a medical test, Emirates ID registration, and residency visa stamping.
  • Employers operating in Free Zones (like Dubai Internet City or DMCC) process visas through their respective Free Zone Authority instead of MoHRE.
  • Once the residency visa is stamped in the passport, the employee becomes a legal UAE resident.

 

Cost
  • Work Permit Application Fee: AED 300 – AED 5,000 (varies based on company category and employee skill level)
  • Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 800 – AED 1,500
  • Residency Visa Stamping Fee: AED 500 – AED 1,000

🚨 Note: Visa costs are covered by the employer and are subject to change. Always check with MoHRE or GDRFA before applying.

 

Documentation Required
  • Valid passport copy (at least 6 months validity)
  • Recent passport sized photograph (with white background)
  • Attested educational certificates (if required for the job)
  • Employment contract (issued by the employer)
  • Medical fitness test results
  • Health insurance coverage (mandatory)
  • Additional documents such as previous experience letters, CV, or professional licenses may be required for certain positions.

 

Processing Time

          7 to 14 working days

  • Processing time may vary depending on employer efficiency, document completeness, and medical results.

 

Extension & Renewal
  • Renewable every 2 or 3 years, depending on the contract.
  • The employer is responsible for renewal before expiry to avoid penalties.
  • Employees should ensure their Emirates ID and visa are renewed together to maintain valid residency status.

 

Additional Notes
  • Employees cannot work for another employer without proper approval.
  • If the employment ends, the visa must be canceled, and the individual has 30 to 60 days to find a new job or exit the UAE.
  • High skilled professionals may qualify for Golden Visa (10 year residency) under certain conditions.
  • Freelancers or self employed individuals can explore alternatives like the Freelance Visa or Green Visa based on eligibility.


 Being based in Dubai, I’ve seen how the Employment Visa plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s diverse and vibrant workforce. If you’ve landed a job here, your employer will guide you through most of the steps but it’s still important to understand the process yourself. From medical tests to visa stamping, it’s all part of officially becoming a resident. Dubai offers great opportunities across many sectors, and this visa is your gateway to building a career in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.