The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently made significant changes to its standard work visa, which is why it is extremely important for foreign workers to be aware of developments. Approved by the Federal National Council, these changes are designed to increase economic flexibility and attract talent from around the world. Here's everything you need to know to navigate the updated UAE work visa space.
The main changes in the UAE work visa
- Extended validity period: The standard work visa in the UAE now has an extended validity period of three years compared to the previous two years. This change is aimed at providing foreign workers with a longer stay and increasing the validity of a work permit.
- Waiver of work change fees: It is noteworthy that individuals are now exempt from work permit fees when changing jobs. This change provides more flexibility for career growth in the UAE labor market.
- Commitment for at least one year: In order to ensure stability in employment, the new rules require that people work in the same company for at least one year after the end of the probationary period. This measure is aimed at ensuring consistency in the workforce and strengthening the obligations between employers and employees.
Advantages of working in the UAE
Choosing a career in the UAE has a number of advantages, which makes it an attractive place for professionals from all over the world. Some notable benefits include living in a tax-free zone, free accommodation, free daily meals and employer coverage of work visa costs. Leading UAE companies are further improving the quality of service by providing their employees with annual round-trip plane tickets.
The process of applying for a standard work visa in the UAE
- Get a job offer: A potential employer in the UAE will provide an official letter of offer outlining the terms of employment, including a description of job responsibilities, work experience and benefits.
- MoHRE Approval: By agreement, the company initiates the online process of applying for a work visa by submitting the necessary documents to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation of the UAE.
- Issuance of a work visa: If MoHRE accepts an employment contract and a visa application, an individual is issued a work visa, usually within two weeks.
- Application for an Emirates ID: After arriving in the UAE, individuals must apply for an Emirates identity card, which serves as both a passport and a residence permit.
- Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must be over 18 years old, have a legitimate job offer, comply with working conditions and UAE laws.
- Employer requirements: The employer's company must be registered with the UAE government, and the company must have clean legal documentation.
- Required documents: Original and copy of passport, passport photo and copies of employee's education documents.
- Fees and registration: An employee handles the registration of a residence permit, while the company manages the application for a work visa and related expenses.
The process of consular legalization
A work visa for employment in the UAE is issued at the request of a company that can confirm its legal activity in the country. Qualified specialists can apply for a work visa by providing photocopies of documents together with a general package of documents. The process of consular legalization includes notarization of the document, its translation into English or Arabic, confirmation of authenticity in the Ministry of Justice and certification by the UAE Consul.
Where to apply
To obtain a work visa in 2023, the application is processed at the consulate of the country of origin. Upon arrival in the Emirates, you must legalize your status within two months. Several departments in each emirate deal with issues related to the legalization of foreigners, while a residence permit is usually issued with the right to extend for up to three years.
Additional aspects
- The employer often provides assistance in the preparation of documents to both the invited specialist and his family.
- The authorities strictly follow the rules, and persons with tourist, business or transit visas are not allowed to work in the UAE.
- Violations, including illegal work, may result in fines for both the employee and the inviting company.
Registration of documents by the employer
To invite a foreigner to work, the company must provide various documentation, including an application for a work visa, a copy of the company's registration, a photocopy of a commercial license and a document confirming the applicant's qualifications.
Required documents from the applicant
To obtain a visa to the UAE for employment, it is required to provide a completed questionnaire, four color photographs, an invitation from the employer, a cover letter from a company from the UAE, income documents and health certificates.
Registration period
The period for which a visa is issued can range from two weeks to one and a half months, depending on the checks. A work visa with a permit contains important information about the employer and the position held, which inspires confidence in foreign specialists.
Advantages of a long-term visa
Working in the UAE offers many advantages, including high wages, the ability to sign contracts, register a car, open bank accounts and act as a sponsor for family members. Long-term visas offer significant advantages, and individuals can enjoy a number of privileges associated with a longer period of residence.
Orientation in the field of obtaining a work visa in the UAE requires a comprehensive understanding of the latest changes and a detailed application process. By staying up to date and adhering to the rules, foreign workers can make the most of the opportunities provided by the developing UAE work visa system.
