Foreign nationals looking to live and work in the UAE have two distinct visa options — the employer-sponsored Employment Visa and the Remote Work Visa for individuals employed by companies based outside the country. Each visa serves a specific purpose and follows its own legal and procedural pathway. Here’s a complete breakdown of what each visa involves, who it’s for, and how to apply.
UAE Employment Visa – what it covers and how it works
A UAE employment visa is a residency and work permit that allows foreign professionals to legally live and work in the country. It is issued based on employer sponsorship and is a mandatory legal requirement for any foreigner employed within the UAE, whether in the mainland or a free zone.Key Process Steps:
- Job Offer Secured: The process begins once the foreign national signs a contract with a UAE-based company, free zone authority, or government entity.
- Work Permit (Entry Permit): The employer applies for an employment entry permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
- Arrival in UAE: Upon entering the country with the permit:
- The employee must complete a medical fitness test.
- Submit biometric data for the Emirates ID.
- Undergo residency visa stamping in their passport.
- Emirates ID Issuance: This ID is vital for accessing services like healthcare, housing, banking, and utilities.
Validity and Duration:
- Mainland employment visas: Typically valid for 2 years.
- Free zone visas: Validity ranges between 2 to 3 years.
- All employment visas are renewable if the individual continues employment with the sponsoring entity.
Costs and Legal Obligations:
- All visa-related expenses — including medical exams, visa stamping, Emirates ID processing, and health insurance — are the legal responsibility of the employer.
- Estimated cost: AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 (excluding Emirates ID, medical tests, and insurance).
- Medical insurance is mandatory and must be provided by the employer.
- Processing Time: Typically 10–15 working days, and up to 2–3 weeks in some cases.
Essential Documentation:To complete the employment visa process, the following are required:
- Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Signed employment contract
- Entry permit issued by MoHRE
- Medical test results
- Emirates ID application
- Educational or professional certificates (attestation may be required)
Important Legal Note:
- Working on a tourist or visit visa is illegal and strictly prohibited by UAE law.
- Any individual found working without a proper work visa is liable for legal action.
UAE remote work visa – for foreigners employed abroad
The UAE also offers a Remote Work Visa, tailored for professionals working for companies outside the UAE, allowing them to reside in the UAE while continuing their remote employment abroad.This visa is not employer-sponsored and does not require a UAE-based job offer. It is designed for location-independent professionals looking to base themselves in the UAE.Core Features:
- Validity: 1 year, renewable annually, subject to ongoing eligibility.
- Sponsorship: No local sponsor required.
- Processing Body: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
- Entry Window: Visa holders must enter the UAE within 60 days from the date of visa issuance.
Who Can Apply:Applicants must demonstrate:
- A valid remote job with a company or entity based outside the UAE.
- Minimum monthly income of $3,500 (or its equivalent in other currencies).
Required Documents:
- Proof of employment outside the UAE
- Salary certificate or bank statement showing the income threshold
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Passport-sized color photo
- Valid health insurance coverage for the UAE
Application Process:The entire process is digital and handled via the ICP portal or the UAEICP mobile app:
- Register and log in to the smart services platform.
- Fill out the application and upload required documents.
- Pay the application fees.
- Submit for review and await approval.
- Receive the visa via email upon approval.
Cost Breakdown:Total application cost: AED 350, including:
- Visa issuance: AED 100
- Application processing: AED 100
- Smart services fee: AED 100
- ICP service fee: AED 50
Key differences – Employment Visa vs Remote Work Visa
