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- Dubai work visas require employer sponsorship — individual applications are not accepted
- Required documents: passport, photo, offer letter, medical certificate, attested degree
- Medical examination can be done in UAE or at an approved overseas clinic
- Emirates ID: biometrics required within 30 days of entering UAE
- Timeline: offer letter → entry permit (2-4 weeks) → medical → Emirates ID
How the Dubai Work Visa System Works
The work visa system in Dubai and across the UAE is built on employer sponsorship (the kafala system). It is not possible to obtain a work permit individually — an employer must "sponsor" you.
Basic Process:
- Employer applies for an entry permit on your behalf
- You enter the UAE
- Medical examination is completed
- Emirates ID is issued
- Work permit and residence visa are granted as a combined package
Required Documents
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid at least 6 months, biometric |
| Passport photo | White background, last 6 months, 4x6 cm |
| Job offer letter | From UAE employer, in English |
| Attested education certificate | Home country notary + UAE embassy notarization |
| Medical fitness certificate | UAE or approved clinic |
| Work experience documents | References or employment letters |
| Police clearance certificate | From relevant authority (some employers) |
Step-by-Step Process
1. Receive a Job Offer
You need a formal job offer from a UAE company. The offer letter must be official, signed, and stamped.
2. Entry Permit
The employer applies for your entry permit through the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources) portal. This takes 2-4 weeks.
3. Enter the UAE
Once the entry permit is approved, you'll receive a visa stamp or e-visa. Enter Dubai. You generally have 60 days from first entry to complete visa formalities.
4. Medical Examination
- Visit approved health centers in the UAE
- Tests for HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C
5. Emirates ID
Mandatory biometric registration within 30 days of UAE entry.
- Visit ICA service centers or residency offices
- Fingerprint and iris scan
- Emirates ID card arrives in 5-7 business days
6. Residence Visa Stamping
Your residence visa is stamped in your passport. The process is now complete.
Cost Breakdown
| Fee Item | Who Pays? | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Entry permit fee | Employer | 500-1,000 AED |
| Medical examination | Employer/employee | 300-600 AED |
| Emirates ID | Employee | 370-470 AED |
| Visa stamping | Employer | 200-500 AED |
| Degree attestation | Employee | Variable |
| Employee side total | ~500-1,500 AED |
Process Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Job offer received | Variable |
| Degree attestation | 2-8 weeks |
| Entry permit application | 2-4 weeks |
| Medical examination | 1-3 days |
| Emirates ID | 5-7 business days |
| Visa stamping | 1-3 business days |
| Total Duration | 6-14 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Dubai work visa individually?
No. A Dubai work visa is always obtained through employer sponsorship.
My degree is in a foreign language — does it need attestation?
Yes. Typically: home country notary → foreign ministry → UAE embassy authentication chain.
Can the medical exam be done outside the UAE?
Some UAE-approved clinics operate abroad. Get the current list from the UAE embassy or your employer.
What happens to my visa if I change employers?
The new employer either transfers from the old visa or initiates a new one. Manage the process with HR.
Can I sponsor family members while working in the UAE?
Yes, if your salary exceeds the threshold (typically 4,000+ AED/month).
Can I work without an Emirates ID?
No. Emirates ID is mandatory for all official processes and must be obtained within 30 days.
Can my work visa be renewed?
Yes. Your employer initiates the renewal process before your visa expires.
Explore Dubai work visa options: Dubai Work Visa Guide 2026 — Employment, Freelance & Investor