Golden Visa holders in the UAE enjoy a high level of flexibility when it comes to employment transitions. While the visa ensures long-term, self-sponsored residency, a valid work permit is still required to legally take up a new job. This guide explains everything about the documentation, legal provisions, and process involved in switching jobs as a Golden Visa holder in the UAE.
Golden visa and employment: How the system works
The UAE’s Golden Visa is a long-term residency program launched in 2019, originally aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, and high-skilled professionals. Unlike traditional residency visas, it is self-sponsored, meaning it is not tied to any employer or company.Despite this independence, Golden Visa holders still need a valid work permit if they intend to take up employment in the UAE. This is in line with:This means that if you hold a Golden Visa and receive a job offer, the prospective employer must apply for a work permit via the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This permit allows you to legally work for that company.Additionally, Golden Visa holders are exempt from employment restrictions during probation periods. According to Article 11(3) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022:“The Ministry may exempt some employees from not granting a work permit… if the employee is a Golden Visa holder.”In essence, Golden Visa holders can legally change jobs during probation without being subject to the usual restrictions.
Switching jobs: Steps and requirements
Changing jobs as a Golden Visa holder involves a straightforward administrative process. Here’s how it works:Step-by-Step Process:
- Current Employer Cancels Existing Work Permit
- While the residency visa remains unaffected, the old work permit must be cancelled by the previous employer.
- New Employer Applies for a Golden Visa Work Permit
- The new company must apply for your Golden Visa-specific work permit with MoHRE.
- This process includes submitting relevant documents and a signed employment contract.
- Begin Working After Approval
- Once the new work permit is issued, you may legally start working for the new employer.
Documents Required (as per Administrative Resolution No. 38 of 2022):
- Recent passport-sized photo (clear, white background)
- Valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
- Copy of valid Golden Visa
- Employment contract approved by MoHRE, signed by both parties
- Academic certificates (attested by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs):
- Skill level 1 & 2: Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Skill level 3 & 4: Diploma or higher
- Skill level 5: High school certificate
- Note: State-issued certificates are excluded
- Professional license, if applicable, for regulated professions such as:
- Doctors, Nurses (Ministry of Health / Department of Health)
- Teachers (Ministry of Education / Local Education Councils)
- Advocates (Ministry of Justice)
- Fitness Trainers (Youth and Sports Authority)
Benefits for employees and employers
The Golden Visa system provides several practical advantages:For Employees:
- Residency is not affected by employment changes, terminations, or career breaks.
- No need to cancel or reapply for a new residency visa when switching jobs.
- Freedom to explore new opportunities, including during probation.
- Families and dependents remain unaffected by employment changes.
For Employers:
- No need to sponsor the employee’s visa — reducing administrative and legal responsibility.
- Faster onboarding — only the work permit is needed.
- Attracting top-tier professionals who already have long-term residency.
This model significantly streamlines recruitment and transition processes, positioning the UAE as a more flexible and attractive employment destination.
Challenges and broader context
While the Golden Visa system is well-structured, legal professionals point out that practical challenges may still arise, including:
- Delays in the cancellation of the previous work permit
- Lack of awareness among HR departments regarding updated processes
- Uncertainty about documentation requirements
To avoid these issues, both employers and employees are advised to work closely with MoHRE or authorised service providers.On a strategic level, the UAE government sees the Golden Visa program as part of its vision to attract global talent. By decoupling residency from employment and offering flexibility in job transitions, the UAE reinforces its reputation as a global hub for business, research, and innovation.
Who Benefits from This System?
The following Golden Visa holders enjoy job transition flexibility:
- Property investors
- Professionals in priority sectors
- Entrepreneurs and business owners
- Scientists and researchers
- Outstanding students
Regardless of category, the residency visa remains unchanged; only the work permit is updated when employment changes.Q. Do I need to cancel my Golden Visa if I change jobs in the UAE? No, the Golden Visa stays valid regardless of job changes.Q. Can I start working for a new employer immediately after getting hired? Only after your new employer obtains a Golden Visa work permit from MoHRE.Q. What documents are required for the new work permit? Photo, passport, Golden Visa copy, signed contract, attested education certificates, and professional license (if applicable).Q. Can I change jobs during my probation period? Yes, Golden Visa holders are exempt from probation-related job change restrictions.Q. Will changing jobs affect my family’s residency visas? No, your dependents’ visas remain valid as your residency isn’t employer-linked.
