If you’re finding it tricky to navigate the cost of a work permit in the UAE, you’re in the right place. A work permit’s cost in the country significantly differs based on factors like the employer’s company classification, the worker category, and whether the permit is being issued inside or outside the country.
This blog acts as a guide to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the work permit and how much does a work permit cost in UAE. Stay tuned for more information!
Comprehending the UAE’s Work Permit Fee and Employment Visa System
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in the United Arab Emirates issues work permits, which permit foreign nationals to work for a particular firm. A work visa, which is normally valid for two years, permits admission into the United Arab Emirates for the purpose of employment. Whether you work in Dubai or anywhere else, both are necessary to operate lawfully. Initial electronic approval, medical screening, Emirates ID, residency visa stamping, and issuing or renewing the work permit of the labor card are some of the processes and expenses involved in the process.
Who Is Eligible for a UAE Employment Visa?
As long as they fulfill the requirements established by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), any foreign national who is older than eighteen gets an entry permit and is eligible to work in the United Arab Emirates. In the United Arab Emirates, there is no upper age limit for employment; however, employers pay a higher rate for employees over 65.
Three groups of foreign workers are distinguished by their educational backgrounds and skill sets:
Category 1: If you possess a bachelor’s degree or higher
Category 2: Should you possess a post-secondary degree in any discipline
Category 3:If you’ve completed high school
Work Permit Cost According to Company Classification
Here’s a breakdown of how much does a work permit cost in UAE based on company classification:
Based on workforce demographics and compliance with labor rules, the UAE government has divided businesses into various classes (A, B, C, or numbered classes as Class 2A, 2B, etc.).
These categories have an impact on the cost of work permits for businesses per employee:
Depending on the employee’s skill level and whether the business is categorized as A, B, or C, work permit issuance and renewal fees can range from AED 250 to AED 3,450*.
For businesses that fall within the Class 2 category:
Class 2A: AED 500* outside the nation, AED 250* for a new permit to enter the UAE
Class 2B: 500 AED* inside, 1,000 AED* outside
Class 2C: 750 AED* inside, 1,500 AED* outside
Class 2D: 1,000 AED* inside, 2,000 AED* outside
Depending on the class and location of issuance, renewals or amendments carry somewhat higher fees, ranging from AED 500 to AED 3,200*.
Cost Breakdown for a Two-Year Employment Visa
The cost of the more extensive 2-year work visa usually ranges from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000*, which usually includes:
- Fees for work permits
- Fees for medical examinations
- Issue of Emirates IDs
- The passport’s visa stamp
This cost varies based on the employer, the type of work, and whether the visa is issued in a free zone, where fees may be somewhat lower (free zones typically charge between AED 3,500 and AED 6,500*).
Included in the visa application are:
- AED 200* is the initial electronic approval charge.
- Issuing of visas: may differ depending on the skill group and nature of the job; for example:
- For approval, highly skilled professionals (those with a bachelor’s degree or more) pay about AED 300*.
- AED 600 to AED 2,000* may be paid to semi-skilled laborers.
- The cost of hiring unskilled labor could reach AED 5,000*.
- In all categories, older foreign workers (over 65) are subject to an additional premium fee of AED 5,000*.
This is an approximate breakdown of how much does a work permit cost in UAE for professionals.
How Long Does It Take To Get a UAE Work Permit?
It usually takes up to 5-15 working days to obtain a work permit from the Ministry.
What Documents Do You Need For a Valid Work Visa?
Several supporting documents are required for the application process of an employment visa to the United Arab Emirates, including:
- A copy of your passport and your original passport
- A passport-sized photo that complies with UAE regulations
- Copies of your academic qualifications. Both your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy or consulate in your nation must approve your qualifications.
- A medical certificate from a UAE health facility that has been authorized by the government.
- Documents from the business that hired you, like the business card or commercial license
What Are The Types of Work Permit?
Depending on the type of job, MoHRE issues 12 types of work permits that enable businesses that are registered with the agency to hire staff. Permit types include:
- A work permit to hire someone from outside the United Arab Emirates
- A work permit for a resident under family sponsorship, or a work permit to move a foreign employee from one place of employment to another
- A temporary work permit to employ someone who will finish a job within a certain amount of time
- One-mission work permits are used to hire foreign workers for a set amount of time to finish a project or a temporary position.
- A part-time work permit to hire an employee with a part-time contract whose working days or hours are shorter than those of their full-time employment.
- A juvenile authorization to hire a minor who is between the ages of 15 and 18.
- A student’s employment and training permission to hire a 15-year-old student who is already in the United Arab Emirates
- Possession of a UAE or GCC national’s work permit
- Permission to hire an employee with a Golden Residence visa from the United Arab Emirates
- To train a UAE national, a national trainee permit is required.
- A freelance permit is granted to self-sponsored foreigners in the UAE and work for people or businesses in the Emirates without the need for an employment contract or Sponsorship from a specific UAE employer.
- Work permit for private teachers
Cost Impact of New UAE Visa Categories (2023-2025)
New work permits that the UAE government has introduced may have an impact on how foreigners work and remain in the nation:
- The Green Visa is a five-year resident visa for highly skilled professionals and independent contractors that costs between AED 7,500 and AED 9,000*, which is usually more than the ordinary employment visa.
- With payments above AED 15,000*, the Golden Visa is intended for long-term residency without the need for sponsorship and is reserved for investors, exceptional talent, and significant categories.
The most common option is still a standard job visa, which is typically good for two years.
Final Takeaway
Working in the UAE is incredibly rewarding, and knowing the process of applying for the license makes it even better. For professionals, business people, and employers, navigating this multi-layered fee structure is integral. This is why we provided a detailed guide on how much does a work permit cost in UAE.
Opt For A Seamless Process!
If you need assistance, you can get in touch with a professional business consultancy to help you with work visas. Xpert Advisory is a top-tier choice in the industry, offering seamless services for visa applications. We’ve been in the industry for years, helping passionate business owners set up their businesses in Dubai, UAE. Get in touch with us for a streamlined visa application process!
FAQs
What Is The Minimum Age Limit For a Work Permit In UAE?
To get a UAE work visa, the minimum age limit is 18 years, with no maximum limit. Juveniles between the ages of 15 and 18 are allowed to work under certain restrictions under Article 5 of the Labour Laws. The UAE’s government allows internships since they help students pursuing higher education.
What Types of Permits Are Available?
Standard full-time work permits, sector-specific licenses, temporary and mission permits, part-time permits, juvenile permits, freelancing permits, and special permits for UAE nationals and Golden Visa holders are among the several kinds that the UAE offers. You are not allowed to work without a valid work permit.
Is It Possible To Convert a Visit Visa to a Work Visa?
Yes, you can convert a UAE visit visa into an employment visa, without leaving the country. You need a job offer and must meet legal and medical requirements before switching status. The process takes 7-14 days, but delays can happen due to quotas, holidays, or paperwork issues.
