The UAE’s dynamic economy and strategic objectives make it a hub for worldwide corporate operations. The business environment is flourishing as a result of the government’s commitment to innovation and development, drawing global firms looking to expand their workforce.

If foreign companies and employees are considering collaborating in the United Arab Emirates, it is imperative that they guarantee legal compliance.

This article’s goals are to outline the procedures for obtaining a work permit in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), describe the various kinds of work permits available to those wishing to relocate there, and discuss the specific requirements for work permits in this vibrant, multicultural nation.

Types of Work Permits and Visas

Here’s a more fluid overview of common work permits and visas in the United Arab Emirates (UAE):

1. Employment Visa:
   Granted to individuals sponsored by a UAE-based employer for long-term employment.
2. Investor Visa:
   Awarded to entrepreneurs and investors contributing to the UAE economy.
3. Freelancer Permit:
   Allows self-employed professionals and freelancers to work independently.
4. Mission Visa:
   Designed for individuals engaged in short-term projects or missions in the UAE.
5. Family Sponsorship Visa:
   Permits expatriates to sponsor family members for residency.
6. Student Visa:
   Allows students to study in the UAE, with potential part-time work options.
7. Golden Visa:
   Provides long-term residency for investors, professionals, and outstanding students.
8. Retirement Visa:
   Enables retirees to reside in the UAE, subject to age and financial criteria.
9. Specialist Permit (Doctor, Engineer, Scientist):
   Issued to specialists and professionals in specific fields.
10. Domestic Worker Visa:
    Allows sponsors to bring domestic workers for household support.

Comprehending the distinctions among each visa or permit type is crucial for individuals and employers navigating the diverse and dynamic landscape of the UAE. The choice of the most suitable option depends on specific needs, job roles, and the desired duration of stay.

UAE work visa and permits requirements

Opting to hire individuals residing abroad provides employers with significant advantages, including the cultivation of a diverse workforce and access to top-tier talent, regardless of their chosen place of residence.

However, reaping these benefits comes with the responsibility of ensuring that the employee holds the legal entitlement to reside in their selected country, especially if it differs from their country of origin. This shared responsibility rests on both the employer and the employee.

Securing a UAE work permit is crucial for eligibility, and validating this to the government necessitates submitting the required documentation corresponding to the specific UAE work visa sought (e.g., Employment Visa, Investor Visa).

While the work permit UAE requirements vary depending on the work visa classification, they may include the following elements:

1. Personal Documentation:
   •  Valid passport and a copy of the passport.
   • Passport-sized color photographs meeting specified criteria.
   • Dimensions: As per UAE visa photo specifications.
   • White background, full face visible, neutral facial expression.
2. Professional Credentials:
   • Resume demonstrating relevant work experience.
   • Proof of qualifications for the job (e.g., educational credentials, professional licenses), if applicable.
3. Immigration Status (if applicable):
   • Proof of immigration status if the applicant is already residing in the UAE.
4. Application Form:
   • A completed and signed visa application form provided by the UAE immigration authorities.
5. Medical Fitness Test:
   • A medical fitness test certificate obtained from an approved health center in the UAE.
6. Security Clearance:
   • Security clearance from UAE authorities, ensuring the applicant poses no security threat.
7. Employment Contract:
   •  A copy of the employment contract specifying terms and conditions, salary, and other relevant details.
8. Proof of Accommodation:
   • Providing proof of accommodation in the UAE, which may include a tenancy contract or a letter from the employer if accommodation is provided.
9. Emirates ID Application:
   • After arriving in the UAE, individuals typically need to apply for an Emirates ID, serving as an official identification document.
10. Biometrics and Eye Scan:
    • Applicants may be required to undergo biometric data collection and eye scanning as part of the immigration process.
11. Health Insurance:
    • Some emirates in the UAE may require individuals to have health insurance coverage during their stay.
12. Entry Permit:
    • Once all requirements are met, individuals receive an entry permit, allowing them to enter the UAE for employment purposes.
13. Residence Visa Stamping:
    • Upon arrival in the UAE, individuals need to undergo the process of residence visa stamping by submitting documents to the immigration authorities.

How to apply for UAE work permits

Embarking on global business expansion or international relocation underscores the need to adeptly navigate the intricate landscape of local tax and labor laws. For companies engaging a workforce across diverse countries, comprehending and adhering to the nuanced requirements of each jurisdiction becomes essential.

In the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), obtaining work permits involves active participation from both the employer and the employee. Additionally, the employer must hold the legal authority to hire individuals residing in the UAE.

Prospective foreign nationals aspiring to live and work in the UAE must secure the appropriate work permit to align with legal regulations. While the specifics of this process vary based on factors like the employee’s origin and the visa type, the general application procedure encompasses the following steps:

1. eVisa Account Creation:
   Establish an account on the UAE’s official immigration website or eVisa portal.
2. Online Application Form:
   Complete the relevant online application form(s). Both employer and employee engagement in the application process is vital, requiring accurate completion of the necessary forms by both parties.
3. Submission of Information:
   Provide any additional individual or company information as requested during the application process.
4. Payment of Application Fee:
   Electronically pay the application fee associated with the specific type of UAE work visa sought. Cash payments are generally not accepted.
5. Regular Portal Check:
   Consistently monitor the online portal for updates, notifications of changes, progress, or any issues that may arise during the processing of the work permit application.
6. Application Processing Time:
   The processing duration for a UAE work visa application depends on factors such as the workload of immigration authorities and any potential issues during the evaluation process.
   While processing times may vary, anticipate a timeframe of several weeks for the approval or rejection of your visa application.
7. Early Submission Considerations:
   As employees are not legally permitted to work in the UAE until their work permit application is sanctioned, it is advisable to submit the application well in advance of the intended start date. This proactive approach ensures a seamless transition without jeopardizing the ability to engage in employment upon arrival.
8. Employer Entitlements:
   Employers must possess the necessary entitlements to operate and hire in the UAE for an employee’s visa application to gain approval. This may involve establishing a legal entity in the UAE, a process that may require significant time and financial investment, or opting for an employer of record to streamline the application process.

Planning to hire or work in the UAE? Here's how EOR Services can help

Employers and employees alike may find a multitude of alternatives when considering moving abroad to take advantage of job prospects. Both parties must abide by local laws and regulations when an employee relocates to a foreign country.

When relocating to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), employers must ensure that it will be easy for them to hire new personnel, and employees must first secure the necessary work visa before considering living and working there.

Here’s where EOR Services come into play. Employers may find it easier to hire workers in the UAE with its broad Employer of Record (EOR) services. We can assist you in expanding and managing your workforce globally because we have experience providing EOR services to several different nations.