How to apply for an employee visa in Dubai
For employers in Dubai looking to hire international talent, understanding the employment visa system is essential.
As sponsors, employers bear the crucial responsibility of not only securing the employment visa but also overseeing the residency and legal status of their international employees in the country. As such, understanding the nuances and legal requirements of the various residency options for foreign employees is imperative for facilitating a seamless and legally compliant employment process.
This article focuses on guiding businesses through the different types of employment visas available, detailing the application steps, and outlining employer responsibilities in the process in order to facilitate a smooth transition for new hires into the Dubai workforce.Top of Form
Types of employee work visas in Dubai
Understanding the different visa options available is essential for ensuring compliance with UAE labour laws and for providing the necessary support to prospective employees during their relocation process. The following is an overview of the key work visa types:
- Standard Work Visa: This is the most common type of visa for employees in various sectors. It requires sponsorship by the employer, who must apply on behalf of the employee. The visa is typically valid for two years and can be renewed.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Aimed at professionals holding specialised skills or qualifications, this visa category often requires evidence of the employee’s expertise and educational background. Employers must demonstrate the necessity of these skills for their business operations.
- Executive Visa: Designed for high-ranking employees or those in managerial positions, the Executive Visa necessitates proof of the individual’s position within the company and their qualifications for the role.
- Mission Visa: For short-term projects or assignments, the Mission Visa allows employers to bring in foreign workers for a period of up to six months, which is particularly useful for completing specific projects without the need for a long-term work visa.
Each visa type comes with its set of conditions and documentation requirements, both for the employer and the employee. Employers must ensure that the visa type chosen aligns with the employee’s role, the duration of their stay, and other regulatory criteria set forth by the UAE government. This includes preparing employment contracts, providing proof of company licensure, and ensuring all parties meet eligibility criteria for the visa application.
Dubai employee visa documentation requirements
As the employer, you are responsible for sponsoring international employees throughout their time in the UAE, so understanding the documentation required for residence and work permit visas is crucial. The following are the prerequisites:
- Employment Contract: A formal contract between the employer and the international employee, outlining the terms of employment.
- Valid Company Card: Proof that the sponsoring company is registered and recognised by UAE authorities.
- Employee’s Passport: A valid passport of the employee, with a minimum six-month validity, along with copies.
- Entry Permit: Issued by the Ministry of Labor, allowing the employee to enter the UAE for employment.
- Health Certificate: The employee must undergo a medical examination in the UAE to obtain this certificate, proving they are free from infectious diseases.
- Proof of Accommodation: Documentation, such as a lease agreement, showing the employee has a place to stay in Dubai.
- Financial Means: Evidence that the employee or employer has sufficient financial means to support the employee’s stay in Dubai.
- Application Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the visa application process.
Application process
- Approval from the Ministry of Labour: The employer must first apply for and receive approval from the Ministry of Labour to hire a foreign employee. This involves submitting the employment contract and company details for verification. Approval typically takes up to 5 business days.
- Entry Permit Issuance: Once approved, the Ministry issues an entry permit, allowing the employee to legally enter the UAE. This permit is usually processed within 2-7 days.
- Employee’s Arrival in Dubai: Upon receiving the entry permit, the employee has 60 days to enter Dubai.
- Medical Examination and Emirates ID Application: Shortly after arrival, the employee must undergo a mandatory medical examination and apply for an Emirates ID at a service centre.
- Residence Visa Application: With the medical results and Emirates ID application underway, the employer then applies for the employee’s residence visa through the Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD). This process can take up to 15 days.
- Work Permit and Residence Visa Stamping: The final step involves the DNRD stamping the residence visa onto the employee’s passport, which also serves as the work permit, allowing them to legally work in Dubai.
Throughout this process, employers are responsible for covering application fees and guiding the employee through the necessary steps, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Hiring employees with current residency status in the UAE
Not all hires are done from outside the country. Sometimes, employers will hire individuals who already have residence status in the UAE. This involves specific considerations, particularly for those on dependent visas or seeking employment transfer.
Dependent Visa Holders
Individuals residing in the UAE on a dependent visa can be employed, provided they obtain a work permit. The process includes securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their sponsor, typically a family member. This certificate is crucial as it formally indicates the sponsor’s consent for the dependent to engage in employment.
Transferring Employment
For those already employed in the UAE looking to change jobs, the procedure necessitates a new work permit and also an NOC from the current employer. This NOC serves as a formal release, allowing the employee to transition to a new employer legally. The process ensures that the transfer is mutually agreed upon by both the current and prospective employers.
Both scenarios underscore the importance of the NOC and work permit in facilitating employment for individuals with current residence status in the UAE, ensuring a smooth transition and adherence to legal requirements.
How can Global Link help?
Global Link has over 16 years’ experience working with local and global businesses, providing bespoke consultancy services for company incorporation in Dubai and the wider UAE.
We can assist you with obtaining employment visas for your new hires. We can guide you through the residency permit process, liaise with government authorities on your behalf, and provide support in drafting and attesting employment contracts, arranging medical tests and Emirates ID registration.
If you need advice on this or any other aspect of company incorporation or visa acquisition, please get in touch with us on +971 4 553 9901 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.