The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a prominent destination for expatriates seeking employment opportunities due to its strategic location, tax-free income, and vibrant lifestyle. To work legally in the UAE, foreign nationals must obtain an employment visa, which allows them to reside and work in the country. The process involves several steps and varies depending on the type of visa being applied for.

Types of UAE Employment Visas

There are three primary types of employment visas available in the UAE:

Standard Work Visa

• This is the most common type of work visa in the UAE, typically sponsored by an employer.
• Validity: 2 years, with options for renewal.
• Requirements: An employment contract and approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE).
• Limitations: Employees can only work for their sponsoring employer.

Green Visa

• Introduced in October 2022, this visa targets freelancers, self-employed individuals, skilled workers, and investors.
• Validity: 5 years, renewable without employer sponsorship.
• Benefits: Allows holders to sponsor immediate family members and provides a grace period upon expiration.
• Requirements vary based on the applicant’s category but generally include proof of income and educational qualifications.

Golden Visa

• This long-term residency visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals with exceptional qualifications.
• Validity: 10 years without a local sponsor.
• Eligibility includes investors, specialized talents like doctors or scientists, and entrepreneurs with significant investments or projects.
• Benefits include access to exclusive health insurance packages and the ability to sponsor unlimited family members.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for any type of employment visa in the UAE:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• They must meet specific educational requirements corresponding to their job role:
• Category 1: Bachelor’s degree holders
• Category 2: Post-secondary diploma holders
• Category 3: High school diploma holders

Application Process

The application process for obtaining a UAE employment visa generally follows these steps:

• Job Offer Acceptance
  Before applying for a visa, foreign nationals must secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer.
• Entry Permit Application
  The employer applies for an entry permit through the MoHRE or relevant authority. This permit allows the employee to enter the UAE.
• Medical Examination
  Upon arrival in the UAE, applicants must undergo a medical check-up at government-approved health centers.
• Emirates ID Application
  After passing the medical examination, applicants can apply for an Emirates ID card through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP).
• Visa Stamping
  Finally, once all documents are verified and approved by authorities, applicants will receive their employment visa stamped in their passport.

Required Documents

The documentation required may vary slightly depending on the specific type of visa but generally includes:

• Original passport (with at least six months validity)
• Passport-sized photos that meet UAE specifications
• Entry permit from MoHRE
• Medical certificate from an approved health center
• Employment contract signed by both parties
• Renewal and Cancellation Rules

Employment visas are subject to renewal upon expiration. Employers are responsible for initiating this process before the current visa expires. If an employee leaves their job or if there are changes in employment status (such as termination), it is essential to cancel the existing visa promptly to avoid legal issues.

In summary, obtaining an employment visa in the UAE involves understanding different types of visas available based on individual circumstances, meeting eligibility criteria set forth by authorities, navigating through a structured application process with necessary documentation while adhering to rules regarding renewal and cancellation.