To work legally in Dubai, you need to obtain a work permit and a residence visa. The UAE operates a unified visa system across its seven emirates, including Dubai. To live and work legally in Dubai, you will need both a residence visa and a work permit (also known as a labor card).The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) manages the issuance and renewal of residency visas. The residence visa allows you to reside in the UAE for a specific period, while the work permit authorizes you to be employed.
The Green Visa is a new category of residence visa that allows skilled individuals to sponsor themselves without the need for a UAE-based employer or sponsor. Valid for five years, it targets freelancers, self-employed individuals, and skilled employees.
Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
Skilled Employees
The Standard Work Visa is the traditional route for foreign nationals employed by UAE-based companies. A work permit is a legal authorization that allows foreign nationals to work in Dubai. Valid for two to three years, it requires employer sponsorship.
This visa is for individuals employed as domestic helpers, such as maids, nannies, or drivers. The sponsoring employer must follow specific regulations set by the UAE government..
This permit is issued to individuals employed by UAE government entities. The hiring government department typically handles the application process on behalf of the employee.
This permit applies to individuals working in the private sector or within one of Dubai’s many free zones. Companies operating in these sectors are responsible for obtaining work permits for their employees through MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Below are the requirements for work permits in the UAE, divided into government and private sector or free zone categories:
| Type of Permit Issued | Work in a Government Sector | Work in Private Sector or Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Required Documents |
|
|
| Document Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Freelance Permit | From MOHRE (for freelancers/self-employed). |
| Proof of Income | Financial statements or audited reports. |
| Educational Certificates | Attested degrees or diplomas. |
| Employment Contract | For skilled employees. |
| Document Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Employment Offer Letter | From your UAE employer. |
| Labor Card or Receipt | For private sector employees. |
| Educational Certificates | Attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. |
Follow these essential steps to successfully apply for your UAE visa:
Employment: Obtain a job offer and sign a contract.
Freelancers: Obtain a freelance permit from MOHRE.
Degree Attestation: Essential for certain visa levels (see Section 6).
Collect all necessary documents, ensuring they meet specifications.
Green Visa: Apply through ICP or GDRFA online portals.
Standard Visa: Employer submits application to MOHRE and GDRFA.
Complete the mandatory medical tests.
If you’re already in the UAE on a visit or tourist visa, you can change your visa status without exiting the country.
Submit biometric data and complete the Emirates ID application.
Submit your passport for visa stamping.
You can apply for visas through the government website of Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship-ICA or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) which works under the service. While ICA offers just online channels, GDRFA offers both on the web and disconnected channels.
There are the online portal for applying for entry permits:
you can also take assistance from any visa services provider
Skill Level 1 Visa (Highly Skilled Professionals):
Skill Level 2 Visa (Skilled Professionals):
General Notes:
Attestation Process Overview:
It’s the process of changing your visa status from a visit or tourist visa to a residence visa without exiting the UAE. This involves paying a fee and submitting a status change application through GDRFA or ICP.
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