Work visas for moving to the UAE

The standard employer-sponsored work visa for employees in the UAE.

Processing time

2-4 weeks

Validity

2-3 years (renewable)

Government fees

AED 3,000-7,000 (employer typically pays; varies by free zone vs mainland)

Requirements

• Job offer from UAE employer
• Employment contract approved by MoHRE
• Medical fitness test
• Valid passport with 6+ months validity
• No criminal record

Documents you will need

• Valid passport: 6+ months validity, blank pages
• Passport photos: White background
• Employment contract: MoHRE approved
• Educational certificates: Attested copies
• Medical fitness certificate: UAE medical test
• Emirates ID application: Biometric ID card

Worth knowing

• Employer handles most of the process
• Must complete medical test and Emirates ID after arrival
• Entry permit issued first, then residence visa stamped
• Can sponsor family members after visa obtained
• No personal income tax in UAE

Path to residency: Can apply for Golden Visa if eligible

5-year self-sponsored visa for skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

Processing time

2-4 weeks

Validity

5 years

Government fees

AED 2,500-4,500

Requirements

• Skilled professional in MOHRE Level 1-3 occupation
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Minimum salary AED 15,000/month (employed)
• Or annual income AED 360,000+ (self-employed)
• Proof of financial solvency

Documents you will need

• Passport: Valid passport
• Bachelor’s degree: Attested
• Salary certificate: Or income proof if self-employed
• Bank statements: 2 years for self-employed
• Employment contract (optional): If employed

Worth knowing

• Self-sponsored; no employer is required
• Can change jobs without visa implications
• Can sponsor family members
• 180-day grace period if leaving employment
• Freelancers and remote workers can qualify through the self-employed income test

Long-term 10-year residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents.

Processing time

2-4 weeks

Validity

10 years (renewable)

Government fees

AED 4,000-6,500 (total processing)

Requirements

• One of: Investor (AED 2M+ property/deposits), Entrepreneur (AED 500K project), Executive director (AED 50K+ salary, 5+ years experience, degree)
• Or: Outstanding specialists in tech/AI/robotics, scientists, doctors, engineers
• Or creative professionals with documented achievements

Documents you will need

• Passport: Valid passport
• Proof of category eligibility: Investment/salary/achievements
• University degree (optional): For executive/specialist categories
• Awards/recognition (optional): For exceptional talent
• Health insurance: UAE coverage

Worth knowing

• Can stay outside UAE for unlimited periods without losing visa
• Can sponsor unlimited family members
• Independent status without an employer sponsor
• Health insurance is required
• New 2025: Gaming visa for esports professionals
• New 2025: 15+ year nurses at Dubai Health eligible