Introduction (2025 Updated Information)

The UAE Employment Visa — also known as the Work Visa or Work Permit — allows foreign workers to legally work and live in the UAE. In 2025, the UAE introduced faster processing, digital stamping, improved labour law protection, and updated employment contract rules. Whether you received a new job offer or want to understand the full visa process, this guide explains everything step-by-step: documents required, medical test, Emirates ID, visa stamping, fees, processing time, and labour contract rules.

SECTION 1 — UAE Employment Visa Requirements, Fees & Validity

1. Who Is Eligible for a Work Visa?

You can get a UAE employment visa if:

• A company offers you a job

• Employer applies for your work permit

• You pass the medical test

• You have a valid passport (6 months)

2. Documents Required (2025)

• Passport copy

• Passport-size photo

• Education certificate (attested for some jobs)

• Job offer letter

• MOHRE labour contract

• Previous visa cancellation (if inside UAE)

3. UAE Employment Visa Fees (Approx.)

Employee does NOT pay visa fees — the company must pay.

4. Visa Validity (2025 Rules)

• 2 years (private companies)

• 3 years (free zones)

• Renewable before expiry

SECTION 2 — UAE Employment Visa Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Here is the complete workflow for a UAE employment visa in 2025:

Step 1 — Company Issues Job Offer Letter

You must sign it online through MOHRE system.

Step 2 — Work Permit Issued (MOHRE Approval)

The Ministry of Labour approves your work permit.

Processing Time: 2–5 days

Step 3 — Entry Permit (If Outside UAE)

If you are outside the UAE:

• You will receive an Entry Permit to enter the country.

If you are inside the UAE:

• Status change is done without leaving the country.

Step 4 — Medical Fitness Test

Mandatory for all employees.
Includes:

• Blood test

• Chest X-ray

Step 5 — Emirates ID Biometrics

Go to ICP service center for:

• Fingerprints

• Photo
  Processing Time: 1–3 days

Step 6 — Visa Stamping (Digital 2025 Update)

In 2025, UAE uses digital visa stamping — no physical sticker.

• Visa appears inside your Emirates ID system

• A PDF residence visa is issued to your email

Processing Time: 2–5 days

Step 7 — Receive Emirates ID

Final step.
Delivery Time: 5–10 days

You are now a legal UAE resident and can:

• Work

• Rent accommodation

• Open bank account

• Apply for Driving License

SECTION 3 — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who pays for the UAE work visa?

Employer must pay all visa costs — not the employee.

2. Can I change job during probation?

Yes — with 14 days’ notice + possible company compensation.

3. Can I work on visit visa?

No — illegal and leads to fines.

4. How long does the full visa process take?

Usually 7–15 days.

5. What if my medical test fails?

Visa will be rejected for serious infectious diseases.

6. Can I bring my family after getting work visa?

Yes — with salary of 4,000–6,000 AED.

7. What is the notice period?

30–90 days depending on contract.

Conclusion

The UAE Employment Visa process in 2025 is faster, more digital, and more secure than ever. With proper documentation and medical fitness, you can complete the entire visa process smoothly. Whether your company is in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or a Free Zone, the steps are almost identical and fully governed by UAE labour laws.

👉 Explore more UAE Work & Visa Guides on our website.