Overview
The Standard Work Visa is issued to foreigners who are employed by a company in the UAE (Mainland or Free Zone). The employer acts as the sponsor and handles the application process, including costs.
This is the most common visa type for professionals moving to the UAE for employment. The visa is tied to your employment contract and is valid for 2-3 years, renewable as long as you remain employed.
Application Process
Job Offer
Receive a formal job offer from a UAE-based company. The company must be authorized to sponsor foreign workers.
Work Permit (MOHRE)
Employer applies for a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Entry Permit
Once approved, you receive an entry permit to enter the UAE (if you're outside the country).
Medical & Biometrics
Complete medical screening at approved health centers and biometric registration for Emirates ID.
Residency Stamping
The residency visa is stamped in your passport (or issued digitally). You're now a UAE resident!
Validity & Renewal
- Standard Duration: 2 or 3 years, depending on the employer and Free Zone
- Renewal: Can be renewed as long as you remain employed with the sponsor
- Grace Period: 30 days after visa cancellation to find new employment or leave the country
- Status Change: Can be changed to other visa types (Golden, Green) if you meet eligibility criteria
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: With minimum 6 months validity
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent photographs meeting UAE specifications
- Educational Certificates: Attested academic qualifications (attestation varies by country)
- Employment Contract: Signed by both employer and employee
- Medical Fitness Certificate: From approved UAE health centers
- Security Clearance: Processed as part of the application
Family Sponsorship
- Salary Requirement: Minimum AED 4,000/month (or AED 3,000 + accommodation) to sponsor family
- Spouse: Can be sponsored regardless of employment status
- Children: Sons up to 18 (can be extended to 21 if studying), daughters until marriage
- Parents: Possible with special visa categories and higher salary requirements
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