United Arab Emirates•Asia7-20 days
Free
3 years
Yes
Required
Allowed
No
Not Required

Sponsored by a UAE employer with an approved work permit from MOHRE. Most common work visa.
The UAE Employment Visa is the standard residency pathway for foreign nationals intending to work legally within the country. It is strictly employer-sponsored, meaning the hiring company must be licensed in the UAE and registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The process begins with the employer securing a work permit and an entry permit, which allows the employee to enter the country to finalize their residency status. Once in the UAE, the employee must undergo a medical screening and biometric registration to obtain an Emirates ID, which serves as the primary identification document for residents.
This visa is designed for professionals, skilled workers, and laborers across all sectors, including private companies and free zones. It provides the legal framework for living and working in the UAE under the protection of local labor laws. The visa is typically valid for two to three years, depending on the contract, and is renewable as long as the employment relationship continues. It is essential for applicants to ensure their educational documents are properly attested by the UAE embassy in their home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as this is a common requirement for professional and managerial roles.
| Initial grant | 3 years |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Must have a valid job offer from a UAE-based company.
The employer must be registered with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The employer must apply for and obtain a work permit on behalf of the employee.
Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
Must pass a mandatory medical fitness test at a government-approved center in the UAE.
Must obtain an entry permit (pink visa) before traveling to the UAE for work purposes.
Must complete biometric registration for an Emirates ID.
Must sign an official labor contract registered with MOHRE.
Job Offer
Required
Education
none or higher
Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
Recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
Signed employment contract.
Work permit issued by MOHRE.
Copy of the employer's valid trade license and establishment card.
Attested educational certificates (if required for the specific role).
Medical fitness test results.
Emirates ID application form.
| MOHRE work permit application | — |
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