In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has attracted a large number of foreign talents to work and live in the UAE due to its stable economic environment, zero personal income tax policy and vast career opportunities.2024.UAE Work VisadealThe application process has been simplified and a wide range of visa types have been introduced to meet the needs of different professions and industries.
Whether you're hoping to find a job in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc., or planning to settle down for the long haul, this guide will fully break down theLatest UAE Work Visa Application Requirements, Process, Fees and Renewal MethodsWe will help you to start your career in the UAE smoothly.
1. Why choose to work in the UAE?
The UAE is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and offers a wealth of employment opportunities for foreign professionals, especially in the fields of finance, technology, engineering, tourism, healthcare and education. Here are the key factors that make the UAE attractive to expatriate talent:
✔ personal income tax exemption: The UAE does not tax personal salary income, meaning your net income is higher than many other countries.
✔ High-paying job opportunities: Average wages are higher in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, especially in the tech, finance and healthcare sectors.
✔ Stabilizing the economic and employment environment: As a global business center, the UAE has a strong infrastructure and a stable market.
✔ Flexible visa policy: The UAE continues to optimize its visa system by offering both long-stay and freelance visas.
✔ High quality of life: The UAE is known for its safe, modern cities, rich cultural activities and good healthcare system.
2. The latest types of work visas in the UAE
Work visas in the UAE are mainly sponsored by employers and are offered in the following main types:
2.1 Regular Employment Visa
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Applicable to employees formally employed by a company registered in the UAE.
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A work permit is issued by the employer and a residence visa is provided to the employee.
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validity period1-2 years, renewable.
2.2 Freelance Visa (FV)
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For self-employed individuals such as designers, programmers, marketing specialists, writers, consultants, etc.
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No employer sponsorship is required and business can be undertaken independently.
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validity period1-2 years, renewable.
2.3 Green Visa (GV)
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For highly skilled people, freelancers and investors.
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No employer sponsorship requiredThe applicant can obtain the right of abode directly.
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validity period5 years, renewable.
2.4 Golden Visa
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For senior professionals (doctors, engineers, scientists, corporate executives) and high net worth investors.
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furnish10 years of permanent residenceNo employer sponsorship is required.
3. UAE work visa application requirements
Different types of work visas in the UAE have different eligibility criteria, which mainly include:
📌 Minimum educational requirements::
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A regular work visa usually requiresCollege or Bachelor's degree or higher, some trades may accept a high school diploma.
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Freelancers and investors do not require academic qualifications but need to provide proof of relevant experience.
📌 Wage requirements::
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Some high-skilled work visas (e.g.Green Visa) requires a monthly salary of at least AED 15,000(approximately **$4,100** dollars).
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General work visas have no fixed minimum wage requirements, but must meet industry standards.
📌 health certificate::
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Applicants will be required to undergo a medical examination, includingTuberculosis and AIDS testingIf you pass the test, you will be granted a visa.
📌 Work Permit (Labor Card)::
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Application to be made by the employer to the Ministry of Human Resources and Nationalization (MOHRE)** in the UAE.
📌 Certificate of no criminal record::
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Applicants are required to provide a home country or country of residenceCertificate of no criminal record, mandatory for some highly sensitive industries (e.g., financial and governmental institutions).
📌 medical insurance::
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All work visa holders are required to purchaseUAE Local Health InsuranceThe
4. UAE work visa application process
✅ Step 1: Employer applies for a work permit
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employers report toMinistry of Human Resources and Nationalization of the UAE (MOHRE) Submits Work Permit Applications(Labor Card).
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Approval time:5-7 working daysThe
✅ Step 2: Application for Entry Permit (Entry Permit)
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Upon approval of the work permit, the employer submits a letter to theimmigrantsBureau Applicationentry permit, which is used for the licensee to enter the UAE.
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Approval time:5-10 working daysThe
✅ Step 3: Enter the UAE and complete the medical examination
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Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination (including TB and HIV screening) locally in the UAE.
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Physical examinations are usually1-2 daysResults are available.
✅ Step 4: Obtaining a Residency Visa
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After passing the medical examination, the employer submits materials forresident visaThe
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Period of validity of the residence visa:1-2 years, renewable.
✅ Step 5: Apply for a UAE Identity Card (Emirates ID)
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Applicants are required to register with the UAE Population Registration Authority (ICP) and receive aUAE Identity CardThe
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This ID card is the legal identification for all residents in the UAE.
5. UAE work visa fees
The cost of a work visa in the UAE varies depending on the type of visa, location of the employer and the duration of the visa, here is the approximate cost range:
Visa Type | Cost (USD) | note |
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occupation permit | $100 – $300 | Paid by the employer |
entry permit | $100 – $200 | Paid by the employer |
Medical examination fees | $100 – $150 | Payment by the applicant |
resident visa | $400 – $1,000 | Depending on the type of visa |
UAE Identity Card | $100 – $150 | yearly fee |
medical insurance | $300 – $1,500 | Depending on the type of insurance |
6. UAE Work Visa Renewal & Expiry Process
🔹 Renewal Process::

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Before the expiration of the residence visa Within 30 days Renewals may be requested.
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The renewal process is similar to the initial application and requires the submission of aValid employment contracts,medical certificate respond in singing an insurance policyThe
🔹 sell-by date::
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Upon expiration of a work visa there is 30 days grace period, late renewals may face fines (AED 25-50/day).
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outweigh Not renewed for 6 monthsIf you do not have a new visa, you will need to reapply for a new visa.
7. Conclusion: Is the UAE your ideal work destination?
UAE by virtue ofHigh salaries, tax exemptions, stable economy and globalized development environment, has become a sought-after career destination for expatriates worldwide. Whether you're looking for a formal employer, freelance work, or long-term residency.Emigrating to the UAEAll have suitable visa options.
🚀 If you plan to work in the UAE, get ready to apply!