To apply for a work visa in the UAE, they must apply for a work permit in the United Arab Emirates to be legally employed in the Emirates which is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
The process of applying for a work visa in the UAE can be complex and time-consuming, but with the right information and preparation, you can make the process a smooth and stress-free experience.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in applying for a work visa in the UAE, from obtaining a job offer to obtaining your visa and starting your new life in this vibrant and dynamic country.
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How to apply for a work visa in UAE?
You can apply for a visa to UAE at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. You can find the type of visa you need on that page. When moving to the UAE, you will ultimately need to get a residence visa, on which your work permit will be listed.
You can apply for a work visa in the UAE online through the official website gdrfad.gov.ae of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), which is the primary authority responsible for processing visas and residency permits in the UAE.
You may also need to go through the process of obtaining a work visa through your sponsor, which can typically be your future employer in the UAE. They can provide more specific information on the application process and requirements.
The UAE is furthering its goal to be a top destination for work, investment, entrepreneurship, education, and life by revamping its entry and residency system. This includes the introduction of new visa categories, the expansion of Golden Visa options, and other changes.
Also, the new visa and entrance requirements are expressly designed to empower Emirati SMEs.
What are the visa types in UAE?
In the United Arab Emirates, there are three types of visas for work purposes:
- standard work visa
- green work visa
- domestic worker visa.
The standard work visa is issued for employees working in both government and private sectors. The green work visa is granted to highly skilled employees and is valid for five years. Lastly, the domestic worker visa is specifically designed for domestic helpers.
How to get a work visa for UAE?
You can get a work visa for UAE in three ways.
- Find work in UAE. Then your boss will do the work visa or work permit for you.
- Find a recruitment agency close to you that can help you to find work in UAE.
- Apply to a UAE employment scheme in Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
Read more on How to find a job in the UAE, United Arab Emirates? A short guide.
Work visa requirements in the UAE
Employees will require the following papers to get a work permit and a residence visa in the UAE:
- A current passport and a photocopy
- Photographs for passports
- Copies of academic credentials. (Your qualifications must be approved by the UAE Embassy or consulate in your country, as well as your nation’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.)
- Copies of the applicant’s birth certificate are required (and marriage certificate if applicable).
- An Emirates identification card.
- The Ministry of Labor’s entrance permission
- A medical certificate issued by a UAE government-approved health center.
- Proof of UAE accommodation, such as a copy of a lease agreement.
- A copy of the employer’s company card A copy of the company’s commercial license
- Evidence showing the applicant has enough money to maintain themselves in the UAE
- Proof of application fee paid.
Sources: Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Abu Dhabi SME Hub, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
The cover image is somewhere in Dubai – United Arab Emirates. Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash