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How to get a work visa in Dubai, UAE

How to get a work visa in Dubai, UAE - Makebiz

The United Arab Emirates is one of the most attractive places to work due to its dynamic economy, high standard of living and diverse skills development opportunities. However, before starting a new career in this country, it is necessary to go through the process of obtaining a work visa. 

There are several types of job-related legalization in the UAE, each with its own specifics and conditions of registration.

1. A standard work visa is the most common type of residency for foreign workers. It is issued by the employer and is usually valid for two years, depending on the terms of the contract.

 Features: 

  • Work only for a specific company without the possibility of changing the employer without reissuing documents and canceling the employment contract.
  • For legal registration, it is the employer who submits the application on behalf of the employee, becoming his sponsor. It turns out that your legal stay in the country depends on it.
  • The visa is extended upon expiration if the employee continues to work for the same company.
  • The rights and obligations are specified in the employment contract. The Ministry of Labor is responsible for regulating this area and resolving disputes.

2. The Green Visa was introduced in 2022 and is intended for freelancers, self-employed and highly qualified professionals. 

 Features: 

— Long-term validity: issued for up to 5 years.

— It is necessary to prepare a confirmation of a certain income level (bank statements, etc.).

— There is no need for an employer-sponsor, which gives greater freedom in choosing projects and clients.

— If desired, there is the possibility of employment in state-owned companies and the administration of Free zone.

3. The Golden Visa provides an opportunity for long-term residence in the UAE and can be issued for up to 10 years. This type of residency is designed for highly qualified professionals, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists.

 Features: 

  • Ample opportunities: its holders can freely reside and conduct business in the region without having to permanently reside here.
  • To confirm the basis, it is necessary to provide evidence of major investments in the Emirati economy, or significant contributions to scientific, sports, cultural, etc. fields. To confirm the talents, you will have to prepare a resume and pass a commission.
  • It does not require a sponsor employer, which provides more opportunities for professional activity.

When trying to obtain residency in the UAE, it is important to keep in mind some key aspects:

— The purchase and sale of work visas is legally prohibited in the Emirates. This can lead to serious consequences for both sides, including fines and deportation.

— To obtain residency, you must undergo a medical examination confirming the absence of serious infectious diseases.

— Depending on the reason, various documents may be required, such as an employment contract, diplomas and certificates confirming qualifications. However, they often have to go through the consular legalization procedure for use in the Emirates. 

Speaking of the more common standard visa, did your employer meet certain requirements:

  • The company has a valid trade license registered on the mainland or in the Free Economic Zone (FEZ).
  • The business is registered with the Ministry of Labor, which allows it to legally hire employees.
  • An electronic signature (E-signature) will be required to submit applications and documents, which simplifies the process of interaction with government agencies.
  • The organization has no debt or labor violations.
  • Each firm has a certain number of visa quotas, depending on the size of the office, industry and hiring history. In free zones, the quota is often determined based on the leased area: for example, one visa may be issued for every 9 square meters.

Let’s take a step-by-step look at the standard process of legalization through employment:

1. Receiving an official job offer

The first and most important step is to receive an official job offer from a company registered in the country. It is issued in accordance with the requirements of the Ministry of Labor. 

The employer must make sure that he meets all the necessary criteria and has received the appropriate visa quota for the hired employees. The quota approval takes from 2 to 5 days. 

2. Signing of the employment contract

After the job offer is received, the next step is to sign a standard employment contract between the parties. It includes all the basic conditions of employment, such as position, salary, vacation, working hours, and other important aspects. 

3. Application for entry

Next, an application is submitted for a temporary entry permit for a new employee. It is worth remembering that its validity period is limited to 60 days, and during this time the employee must enter the country. 

4. Passing a medical examination

Upon arrival in the UAE, the future employee is required to undergo a medical examination: tests for HIV, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. The results are usually given within 2-3 days. 

To apply for an EID, you will need to be fingerprinted and photographed.

5. Issuing Emirates ID

Based on the results of all checks, the future employee is issued a resident visa and a local identity card — Emirates ID.

The whole process usually takes up to 4 weeks, depending on the filing speed and the company’s internal procedures. However, it should be borne in mind that delays can occur at any stage, so it is recommended to plan all steps in advance. 

Obtaining a work visa in the UAE is a significant step for those who want to build a career in this dynamically developing region. The choice of its type depends on your professional goals and status. Standard, green, and gold visas offer a variety of options, and it’s important to choose the option that best suits your needs. Be prepared for the fact that the process requires compliance with a number of conditions on the part of both the employer and the employee. Follow all legal requirements and be aware of the risks associated with illegal legalization to ensure your stay in Dubai is the most comfortable and safe.

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