Want to Work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Read This Before You Apply

Synopsis: If you are planning to work in the UAE starting June 2025, this easy guide will help you understand everything clearly. You will learn about the types of work visas, the documents you need, and how the application process works.

What is a UAE Work Visa?

A UAE work visa gives you legal permission to live and work in the United Arab Emirates. You can only get this visa if you already have a job offer from a company based in the UAE. Your employer usually applies for the visa on your behalf. Once approved, this visa allows you to stay in the country for two or three years, depending on your job contract.

You cannot apply for a UAE work visa by yourself. You must have an offer from a company that is licensed to hire foreign workers.

Types of Work Visas in the UAE

You can get different types of work visas depending on your job and where your employer is located. Here are the main types:

·         Private company work visa. For jobs in private businesses.

·         Government work visa. For people working in government departments.

·         Free zone work visa. For employees of companies located in special business zones.

·         Domestic worker visa. For jobs like housemaids, drivers, and similar roles.

·         Green visa. For skilled workers, freelancers, and investors who don’t need employer sponsorship.

Basic Requirements for a UAE Work Visa

Before you apply, make sure you meet these conditions:

·         You must have a job offer from a UAE company.

·         Your job title must match the approved job categories in the UAE immigration system.

·         You must pass a medical fitness test.

·         You should not have any criminal background.

·         Your employer must be a registered company in the UAE.

Documents You Need for the Work Visa

Documents from you:

·         A valid passport with at least 6 months before expiry.

·         Recent passport-size photographs.

·         Attested academic and professional certificates.

·         Signed job contract.

·         Medical fitness report from an approved UAE clinic.

·         Police clearance certificate.

·         Emirates ID application form.

Documents from your employer:

·         Copy of their trade license.

·         Copy of their immigration card.

·         Approval from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources.

·         Work permit application.

Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and translated into Arabic if required.

Step-by-Step Work Visa Process in June 2025

Step 1: Get a Job Offer

You need to secure a job with a UAE-registered company. This is the first and most important step.

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Permit

Once you accept the job offer, your employer applies for a temporary work permit. This permit allows you to enter the UAE and is valid for 60 days.

Step 3: Get Entry Visa

After the permit is approved, the authorities issue an entry visa. This is also called a pink visa. It lets you enter the UAE legally to start your job and visa process.

Step 4: Take Medical Test

After you arrive in the UAE, you must take a medical test at an approved health center. The test includes a general check-up, chest X-ray, and blood test to check for diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

Step 5: Apply for Emirates ID

You must apply for your Emirates ID. This ID includes your photo, fingerprint, and other details. You will need it for many things like banking, renting a house, or signing up for services.

Step 6: Get Residence Visa Stamped

Once you complete the medical test and apply for the Emirates ID, your employer submits your documents for visa stamping. The authorities stamp your residence visa into your passport. This allows you to live and work legally in the UAE.

Step 7: Start Working

After you receive your Emirates ID and your visa is stamped, you can start working for your employer legally.

Medical Test for UAE Work Visa

All foreign workers must take a medical test. This test makes sure you don’t have any serious infectious diseases. Here’s what you need to do:

·         Visit an approved government health center.

·         Carry your passport and entry permit.

·         Pay the medical test fee.

·         Wait for results, usually in 2 or 3 working days.

If the test shows any serious health issues, your visa may be denied. You may also be asked to leave the country.

Cost of Getting a UAE Work Visa

The total cost of a work visa depends on the job, the company, and the type of work. Usually, the employer pays all the expenses. These include:

·         Entry permit

·         Medical test fees

·         Emirates ID fee

·         Visa stamping fee

·         Health insurance

You may not need to pay anything unless your employer asks you to share the cost.

How Long the Process Takes

The full process usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks. It can take longer if there are delays in medical test results or document approval.

How Long is the Visa Valid?

A UAE work visa is usually valid for 2 years. If your job contract is extended, your employer can renew the visa. You will need to take another medical test when renewing it.