There are different types of employment visas available in the UAE that cater to different employment categories. Below are some of the employment visa categories:

• Standard work visa: This is one of the most common types of work or employment visa, sponsored by an employer in the private sector, government sector, or free zone sector. The visa is valid for two years and can be renewed.
• Green visa: This visa initiative was launched to attract skilled workers, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs. You do not require a sponsorship. The Green Visa allows for self-sponsorship without a local sponsor or employer requirement. It is valid for up to 5 years.
• Golden Visa: This category is designed for investors, businessmen, specialized talents researchers in various fields of science and technology, and students with high accolades in their studies. It facilitates long-term residency (up to 5–10 years). You can also read: UAE Golden Visa: Long Term Residence Visa in UAE
• Domestic visa or Maid Visa: This visa is for helpers such as maids, nannies, and drivers living and working in the UAE.

Each visa category carries different criteria and advantages; thus, choosing an appropriate one is important. For more information about the appropriate visa for you, reach out to Kiltons Business Setup Services.

Dubai visa fees cost about AED 3000 to AED 7000 (inclusive of taxes). Below is a breakdown of the approximate charges for an employment visa (fees are subject to change).

• AED 3500 refundable deposit (The new law states this requirement is not applicable.)
• AED 3500 for medical tests, Emirates ID, stamping charges, etc.
• Typing charges, if applicable, are estimated to be about 200-250
• Renewal fees: AED 3000
• The visa fee is non-refundable.

Nonresidents must be at least 18 years old to work in the UAE. Additionally, they must fulfill the conditions established by the MoHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization). In the UAE, there is no minimum age limit to work, although businesses may have to pay more for workers who are 65 years of age or older.

Based on their educational background and skills, foreign workers fall into one of the following categories: 

• Category 1: For individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
• Category 2: For those with post-secondary qualifications in any field.
• Category 3: For individuals with a high school diploma.

Below are the documents required when applying for a work visa permit:

• Original and copy of passport
• Attested degree of the applicant from MOFA
• Passport-sized photographs as per UAE regulations
• Emirates ID
• Entry permit issued by the Ministry of Labour (MoL)
• Medical certificate from an approved UAE health facility
• Copies of academic credentials, authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE embassy in the worker's home country
• Employer’s documents, including business card and license

Below are the steps to complete to obtain a work permit in Dubai:

• Employer application: The MoHRE receives a TASHEEL application from your employer, which starts the procedure. All the required documents are included in this application for processing.
• Document submission: To support the work permit application, employees must apply with the necessary documents mentioned above.
• Approval by MoHRE: The MoHRE examines the employer's applicants to make sure everything is per the rules and regulations.
• Permit issuance and approval: Following a favorable review, a work permit is issued and approval is given. The employers can download the authorized permission.
• Residence visa application: Upon arrival in the UAE on a work permit, candidates have 60 days to begin the formal work permit and residence visa procedures.
• Permission from the Ministry of Labor: The employer may move on with the work permit application on behalf of the employer as soon as they obtain approval from the Ministry of Labor for the immigration quota.
• Residency visa: Upon approval of the work permit application, the residency visa is issued, granting access to workers to the country.
• Medical screening and Emirates ID: Candidates must provide an Emirates ID to proceed with the required medical examination. To complete this process, you must hold your original passport, entry visa, and Emirates ID copy.
• Work entry visa: Candidates are issued the visa, which allows them to remain in the UAE for two months until the residency visa application process is complete.
• Biometric testing and documentation: Candidates must first undergo biometric screening upon arrival in the UAE. They must also present paperwork, a passport, a work contract, an entry permit, and undergo a medical examination.

Along with the specified requirements of their potential employer, certain general standards must be met for candidates to avail of employment opportunities within the UAE:

• Validity of the Employer: A valid license by appropriate authorities in the UAE must be held by the hiring organization.
• Attestation requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to get a UAE work visa.
• Job Alignment: The candidate should have the same responsibilities as those in use at the hirer part of the business.
• Compliance from a legal perspective: Every single law related to employment in the UAE must be followed by an employer meticulously.

If you have further doubts or queries regarding work permits, do not hesitate to contact Kiltons Business Setup Services.