The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to attract a large number of foreign workers across various industries, including construction, healthcare, IT, and hospitality. To work legally in the UAE, foreign nationals must obtain a work permit (also called a labor card or employment visa). This article explains the UAE Work Permit Process 2025, including eligibility, application steps, fees, timelines, and employer responsibilities.
Table of Contents
Overview of UAE Work Permit
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Name | UAE Work Permit / Employment Visa |
| Administered By | Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) |
| Who Applies | Employer (on behalf of worker) |
| Validity | 1–3 years (depending on contract and company) |
| Renewable | Yes (subject to contract renewal and visa status) |
| Processing Time | 1–4 weeks (varies by nationality and industry) |
Purpose of the Work Permit
- Ensures foreign workers are legally employed in the UAE
- Protects both employers and workers under UAE labor laws
- Allows foreign employees to obtain residency (Emirates ID & visa stamp)
- Helps employers comply with quotas and labor regulations
Eligibility Criteria
- For Employers
- Must be registered in the UAE with a valid trade license
- Must sponsor the worker for employment and visa purposes
- Must comply with labor laws, salary, and accommodation provisions
- For Workers
- Must have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Must meet job-specific skill, qualification, or experience requirements
- Must pass a medical fitness test in the UAE
- Some positions require educational attestation or professional license
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Job Offer & Employment Contract
- Employer issues a formal job offer and signs a contract with the worker
- Work Permit Application
- Employer applies to MOHRE for a work permit
- Fee: AED 200–500 (varies by emirate and company)
- Entry Permit / Employment Visa
- Once approved, the worker receives an entry permit valid for 60–90 days to enter the UAE
- Medical Test & Emirates ID
- Worker undergoes mandatory medical testing
- Apply for Emirates ID through Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
- Residency Visa Stamping
- Passport is stamped with a UAE residency visa, valid 1–3 years depending on contract
- Work permit is linked to the residency visa
- Labor Card Issuance
- Final step: MOHRE issues a labor card, officially authorizing employment
Estimated Costs
| Cost Type | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Application | AED 200–500 |
| Medical Test | AED 300–600 |
| Emirates ID | AED 370–1,000 (depending on validity) |
| Visa Stamping Fee | AED 500–1,000 |
Processing Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| MOHRE Work Permit Approval | 1–7 days |
| Entry Permit Issuance | 3–7 days |
| Medical Test & Emirates ID | 1–2 weeks |
| Visa Stamping & Labor Card | 1–2 weeks |
How the Work Permit is Processed
- Employers initiate the process via MOHRE online portal
- Worker completes medical and ID registration after arrival
- MOHRE verifies documents and issues a labor card
- Work permit is tied to residency visa and employer sponsorship
Why It Matters
- Ensures foreign employees are legally allowed to work in the UAE
- Prevents fines, deportation, or illegal employment issues
- Protects employer rights under labor contracts
- Facilitates access to banking, housing, and healthcare in the UAE
Final Takeaway
The UAE Work Permit Process 2025 is employer-driven and requires careful adherence to MOHRE regulations. Workers must ensure their documents are complete, pass the medical test, and receive residency visas before starting employment. Timely application prevents delays and ensures legal employment in the UAE.
FAQs
Q1: Can a worker start working before the UAE work permit is issued?
No, employment is only legal after the work permit and residency visa are issued.
Q2: How long is a UAE work permit valid?
Typically 1–3 years, depending on contract and visa type.
Q3: Can the work permit be transferred to another employer?
Yes, but only with MOHRE approval and formal transfer process.
Official Website: Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) – www.mohre.gov.ae
