Before you can start working legally in UAE, you need to get an employment visa. How do you do that? Keep reading to learn how to how to get employment visa in Dubai
Dubai is known for its increasing economy and opportunities for immigrants. Hence, it is a popular destination for people seeking career growth.
As an immigrant who wants to work in Dubai, an employment visa is important to work in the UAE.
However, not everyone knows how to find their way around getting an employment visa to enable them to work freely.
In this guide, we’ll take you through why you need an employment visa, the costs involved, the requirements, and a step-by-step process on how to get employment visa in Dubai without unnecessary delays.
Let’s get into it.
Why Do You Need an Employment Visa in Dubai?
If you’re considering working in Dubai, the first thing to know is that the UAE law mandates all foreign workers to have an employment visa.
This visa is a legal permit that allows you to reside and work in Dubai under the sponsorship of your employer.
Without it, you risk facing heavy fines, deportation, and a permanent ban from re-entering the UAE.
More so, an employment visa also allows you to access other benefits, such as opening a bank account, renting accommodation, and applying for a driver’s license.
In other words, as an immigrant moving to the UAE, you need this visa for your smooth stay and career in Dubai.
What is the Employment Visa in Dubai Price?
The cost of an employment visa in Dubai depends on several factors, such as your profession, the validity period, and whether you are applying for it from inside or outside the UAE.
However, the cost of an employment visa ranges between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 (USD 800 to USD 1,900) for a single application, including the costs for medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa stamping.
Though some companies cover these expenses, it’s always good to clarify this with your employer upfront to avoid any surprises later.
Requirements Needed to Get Employment Visa in Dubai
Before you start applying for your employment visa, make sure you meet the following requirements, they are important when it comes to how to get employment visa in Dubai.
- A Valid Job Offer:
You need a job offer from a UAE-based company willing to sponsor you.
- Passport Copy:
Your passport should be valid for at least six months.
- Passport-Sized Photos:
Make sure to have recent, clear passport-sized photos that meet the visa photo requirements.
- Attested Educational Certificates:
For certain professions, you may need to have your educational certificates attested by your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE embassy.
- Health Check-up:
A mandatory health check-up is also required, including blood tests and a chest X-ray.
- No Criminal Record:
Also, You’ll need a certificate of good conduct from your home country or the UAE police.
- Offer Letter and Labor Contract:
These must be approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
How to Get Employment Visa in Dubai: Step-by-Step Process
Here we are! Now that we have learned about what you need to get an employment visa in Dubai, here is a step-by-step guide on how to get employment visa in Dubai
- Get a Job Offer and Employment Contract:
The first step is to get a job offer from a Dubai-based company.
Ensure that the employment contract clearly states your job role, salary, and terms of employment.
Your employer will then register your contract with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Employer Files for Initial Approval:
Your employer will apply for initial visa approval from MOHRE. This involves providing the relevant documents and paying the necessary fees.
- Receive an Entry Permit:
Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive an entry permit, also known as a “pink visa.”
This allows you to enter the UAE and is valid for up to 60 days.
If you’re already in Dubai, your employer will change your visa status without you needing to leave the country.
- Medical Test and Health Check:
After entering Dubai, you’ll need to undergo a mandatory medical check-up, which includes a blood test and chest X-ray to screen for communicable diseases.
The results are usually available within a day or two.
- Apply for Emirates ID:
Next, you’ll need to apply for an Emirates ID.
This requires your passport, entry permit, and medical test results.
You can apply at any authorized typing center or through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website.
- Visa Stamping on Passport:
Once you have your medical test results and Emirates ID application receipt, your employer will submit your documents to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to stamp your residence visa on your passport.
- Receive Your Emirates ID:
Finally, you’ll get your Emirates ID, which is valid for the same duration as your employment visa.
This ID is important for day-to-day activities, such as renting an apartment or opening a bank account.
Key Takeaway
The process involved in getting an employment visa in Dubai might seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and support from your employer, it is easy.
Here, we have discussed how much an employment visa costs, what you need to get one as well as how to get employment visa in Dubai.
However, don’t forget to keep track of your documents, meet all the health requirements, and follow the steps diligently because securing your employment visa will allow you to focus on achieving your career goals and your day-to-day activities in Dubai.
We hope you find this guide on how to get employment visa in Dubai helpful.
If you have more questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Also, feel free to leave a comment below if you need further help or have other queries.
Thank you for reading.
FAQS About How To Get Employment Visa In Dubai
Can I sponsor my family with an employment visa in Dubai?
Yes, once you have a valid employment visa and meet the minimum salary requirement (usually AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation), you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents.
How long does it take to process an employment visa in Dubai?
The employment visa process usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the company’s efficiency and the government’s processing time.
Can I change jobs in Dubai with the same employment visa?
No, you will need a new employment visa if you switch jobs. Your new employer will have to apply for your visa once your previous visa is canceled.
Do I need to leave Dubai if my visa expires before getting a new job?
Yes, if you do not get a new job within the grace period after visa cancellation (usually 30 days), you must leave the UAE to avoid fines.
What happens if my employment visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, the reason will be communicated to your employer. Common reasons include incomplete documents or failing the medical test. Once the issue is resolved, your employer can reapply.
