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Key Takeaways
Employers must be registered with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to sponsor foreign workers.
The work permit process usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the type of visa.
Common visas include the Employment Visa ($600) and the Investor Visa ($1,200).
Independent contractors follow a separate process, typically applying for a freelance visa or self-sponsored status.
Work permits are often location-specific and must be updated if the employee changes jobs or work location.
Who Needs a Work Permit in The United Arab Emirates
In the UAE, any foreign national intending to work in the country needs a valid work permit. This includes employees hired from overseas as well as those already in the UAE on other types of visas, such as tourist visas or family sponsorships. Employers are responsible for applying for and securing work permits for their foreign employees, regardless of the sector or type of employment. Freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers who intend to work in the UAE may also require specific permits or approvals.
Types of Work Visas in The United Arab Emirates
The UAE offers various types of work visas to accommodate different employment scenarios. These visas are designed for professionals, skilled workers, and even freelancers.
Requirements For a Work Permit in The United Arab Emirates
To secure a work permit in the UAE, employers and employees must meet specific requirements. These requirements ensure that all employment complies with UAE labor regulations.
- Valid Job Offer: The employee must have an official job offer from a UAE-based company.
- Medical Fitness Test: Employees must undergo a medical examination to confirm they are free from contagious diseases.
- Educational Qualifications: Relevant educational certificates must be attested and submitted for professional or skilled roles.
- Passport and Photographs: A valid passport with at least six months of validity and recent passport-sized photographs are required.
- Entry Permit: An entry permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to legally enter the UAE for employment purposes.
The United Arab Emirates Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Job Offer and Contract Signing – The employer issues a job offer and contract for the employee to sign.
- Step 2: Entry Permit Application – The employer applies for an entry permit via MOHRE.
- Step 3: Medical Examination – The employee undergoes a mandatory medical fitness test upon arrival.
- Step 4: Work Permit Application – The employer submits the work permit application along with required documents to MOHRE.
- Step 5: Residency Visa Stamping – Once the work permit is approved, the employee’s passport is stamped with a residency visa.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In The United Arab Emirates
In the UAE, employers act as sponsors for work visas and permits. The process begins with obtaining an entry permit for the employee. After the employee enters the UAE, the employer ensures that the employee completes medical examinations, obtains an Emirates ID, and secures the work permit and residency visa. Employers are responsible for covering the costs associated with these applications and ensuring the validity of the employee's legal status in the country.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in The United Arab Emirates
Work permit and visa fees in the UAE vary depending on the visa type and the employee's skill level.
Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in the United Arab Emirates, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in The United Arab Emirates
The processing time for a UAE work permit typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks. Factors affecting processing times include the completeness of the documentation, the type of visa, and any additional security checks. For urgent cases, some permits may be expedited for an additional fee, reducing processing time to as little as 1 week.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in The United Arab Emirates
Work permits in the UAE are generally valid for 1 to 2 years, depending on the contract type and the specific work visa. Employers are responsible for initiating the renewal process at least 30 days before the permit expires to avoid any legal complications or penalties. Failure to renew the permit on time may result in fines or difficulties in re-validating the employee’s legal work status.
For long-term visas such as the Green and Golden Visas, the renewal periods are typically 5 to 10 years, depending on the terms of the visa. These visas offer a more extended stay and can be renewed without the need for an employer sponsorship in most cases, especially for skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in The United Arab Emirates
The UAE offers a remote work visa, allowing digital nomads to live in the country while working remotely for foreign companies. This visa is ideal for freelancers and remote employees.
- Proof of Employment: Must show proof of employment with a company outside the UAE or own a business.
- Minimum Income: A minimum monthly income of $3,500 is required.
- Health Insurance: Valid health insurance covering the UAE.
- Passport Validity: Passport valid for at least 6 months.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in The United Arab Emirates
Employers often face challenges related to work permit processes, cultural differences, and compliance with UAE regulations.
- Complex Paperwork: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and attested to avoid delays.
- Compliance with Labor Laws: Stay updated with changes to UAE labor regulations.
- Cultural Adaptation: Provide support for international employees to adapt to the UAE’s culture and work environment.
Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution
Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:
- Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
- Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
- Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.
Disclaimer
THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Milani Notshe
Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.
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