The Government of Dubai offers several work visa UAE. Also, if you want to work, you will need to obtain a work visa. But first, you need an employer to hire you and initiate the necessary steps to obtain a UAE work visa and work permit.
In this article, we will show you a complete guide to find out if a work visa Dubai is right for you and work visa duration. However, visa regulations may change. So, always consult official channels or visa experts for the latest updates. Each is designed to meet your specific needs for tourism, business or new ventures.
Types of Work Visa Available in UAE
Depending on the nature and duration of your stay, you can choose between different types of work visa UAE categories. Also, each type of visa is meticulously designed to serve specific purposes. Let us see what the available options are.
Employment Visa
This is the most common type of work permit visa UAE sponsored by an employer in the private sector, government sector, or free zones. As well as, it is valid for 2 years, Renewable, Sponsored by an employer and allows employees to work for the sponsoring employer only.
Investor Visa
The investor visa is a special work visa UAE tailored to real estate investors in Dubai. Besides, it grants a renewable two-year residency period to those who own property in the city. So, the main advantage of this visa is that it allows the holder to sponsor a spouse and children, ensuring that families can stay together.
Freelance Visa
Type of work visa UAE that allows the holder to self-sponsor for 5 years. Visa sponsorship from an employer or UAE national is not required.
Also, available to self Employed who meet specific criteria. Requirements include a self employed permit, proof of a specialized degree or diploma and proof of sufficient annual income from self-employment.
Transit Visa
In the UAE, a transit visa is a temporary visa that allows travelers to pass through the country while connecting to their final destination. Also, the work visa UAE issues two types of transit visas:
- 48-Hour Transit Visa: Valid for 48 hours from entry into the UAE.
- 96-Hour Transit Visa: Valid for 96 hours from entry into the UAE
Eligibility Criteria & Documents required for UAE work visa
The eligibility for a work visa UAE depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Here are the main categories:
Standard Work Visa (Employment Visa):
- If you are employed in the private sector, you can apply for a standard work visa.
- Also, government employees and those working in free zones can also apply for this visa.
- As well, domestic workers (such as housemaids, nannies, and drivers) live and work in the UAE under the domestic worker’s visa.
Green Visa:
- You must have a self-employment/freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or professional diploma.
- Also, Show evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years (minimum AED 360,000) or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
- Besides, hold a valid employment contract.
- Be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
- Also, have a minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Earn a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
When applying for a work visa UAE, you will need the following documents.
- Original Passport
- Passport size picture.
- A copy of your academic qualifications approved by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country.
- Medical certificate, issued by a government-approved health center in the UAE.
- Other Documents from the company hiring you.
Proof of Employment
After quota approval, employers must submit a signed employment contract to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization for approval. So, the contract must be written in English, Arabic. Or, if different from both languages, the employee’s native language.
Proof of Accommodation
- Spouse Legalized Marriage Certificate: If you are married and your spouse is accompanying you, you will need to provide a legalized marriage certificate.
- Tenancy or Accommodation Proof: This can be in the form of a tenancy contract or other evidence that you have arranged a place to stay during your time in the UAE.
- Recent Utility Bill: A utility bill (such as electricity, water, or internet) showing your name and the address of your accommodation.
- Medical Certificate: If any family member above 18 years old is accompanying you, they will need a clearance medical certificate.
- Sponsor’s Company Contract or Employment Contract: If your accommodation is provided by your employer, you may need to submit relevant employment-related documents.
Educational Qualifications
A university, vocational college or high school diploma certifies by the Attestation office of the ministry of foreign affairs of the UAE. Also, this is a professional qualification for professionals in the fields of medicine, education, sports or law.
Financial Documentation
For freelancers:
- Self-employment permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
- Also, evidence of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma.
- Besides, Proof of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years, totaling at least AED 360,000.
- Alternatively, demonstrate financial solvency throughout your stay in the UAE.
Skilled Employees:
- A valid employment contract.
- Classification in the first, second, or third occupational level according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- A monthly salary of at least AED 15,000.
The Green visa allows skilled employees to sponsor themselves for 5 years, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to sponsor their work visa UAE.
Tips for a Smooth Transition to the UAE Work Environment
Transitioning to a new work environment, especially in a different country like the UAE, can be both exciting and challenging. So, here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition:
- Learn about local customs, traditions and social norms. Respect for cultural practices is essential.
- Dress modestly and professionally. For men, this typically means long trousers and collared shirts.
- Also, arrive on time for meetings, appointments, and work. Punctuality is highly value in the UAE.
- Learning basic phrases in Arabic can be of great help, no matter how much English you speak. It shows respect and helps you communicate with locals.
- Attend industry events, conferences, and networking sessions. Building professional relationships is crucial.
- Be open to socializing outside of work. Invitations to homes or gatherings are common.
- The UAE follows a Sunday-to-Thursday workweek. Friday is the Islamic day of rest (similar to Sunday in Western countries).
- Be mindful of this and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Also, learn about other religious holidays and customs.
- The UAE has a hot climate. Stay hydrated and protects you from the sun.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and healthcare facilities.
- Besides, if you plan to drive, obtain a UAE driver licenses. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules.
- As well, public transportation is efficient and widely available.
- So, Embrace the multicultural environment. The United Arab Emirates is home to people from many different backgrounds.
- Be patient and flexible as you adjust to the new work culture.
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