Working in the UAE requires a valid work permit and work visa. These documents enable individuals to work officially in the country without requiring additional visas. Here’s a detailed guide on acquiring a Dubai work visa and understanding its nuances, including different types and essential steps.
Dubai Work Visa: Initial Steps
In the UAE, companies sponsor work visas, which means individuals can’t apply independently. To secure a job, refer to comprehensive guides on job hunting in Dubai or explore job listings on dedicated websites and apps tailored for UAE opportunities.
Once you secure a job, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) becomes pivotal. The company applies for a work permit, eventually transitioning into a residency visa. This process takes approximately two months and involves several components, such as a physical exam, obtaining an Emirates ID, a labour card, and a residency visa.
The residency visa signifies the company’s sponsorship, covering expenses for the work permit, medical exams, and Emirates ID. Additionally, once you hold a resident key, you can sponsor your family or, in the case of single mothers, avail yourself of the same privileges. Similarly, men can obtain work visas sponsored by their wives.
Types of Work Visas in UAE
- Standard Work Visa: This employer-sponsored visa permits individuals to work in the UAE for two to three years, subject to renewal or termination by the employer.
- Golden Visa: For individuals with exceptional qualifications, this 10-year visa allows professionals like doctors, scientists, artists, and others to work, live, and study in the UAE without local sponsorship.
Eligibility and Requirements
Any individual above 18, adhering to MoHRE’s requirements, can legally work in the UAE. These prerequisites include possessing a business license, ensuring no offences by the employer, aligning the job with the company’s operations, and having at least a high school diploma. While there’s no upper age limit, hiring individuals over 65 incurs an additional cost.
Document Requirements and Application Process
Applying for a Dubai work visa involves specific document submission based on the visa type. Typical documents include passport copies, passport-sized photographs, Emirates ID, MoL entry permits, medical certificates, and academic credentials. Employers also need to provide their business licenses.
Steps to Obtain a Dubai Work Visa
The process encompasses three stages:
- Employment Entry Visa: Involves quota approval, submitting employment contracts, and applying for the entry visa.
- Emirates ID Application: Requires biometric data submission.
- Work and Residence Visa Acquisition: Includes medical exams, labour card submission, obtaining health insurance, acquiring work permits, and securing the residence permit.
Cost of Dubai Work Visas
The expenses for UAE work visas vary depending on categories and levels. Employers typically cover these fees, which include approval fees for electronic work permits and additional costs based on visa categories.
Assistance and Support
Companies can contact services like Effective Desk to streamline the process and seek expert guidance for Dubai work visas. They facilitate visa services for registered businesses and provide consultation on Dubai business establishments.
In conclusion, obtaining a Dubai work visa involves multiple steps, specific requirements, and expenses. Seeking professional guidance can ease the process and ensure a smoother transition into working legally in the UAE. For detailed assistance, Effective Desk offers consultation and visa services.
Contact Effective Desk via phone, WhatsApp, or email for inquiries and consultation.
Individuals seeking a Dubai work visa can navigate the process more comprehensively by consolidating these steps and details.