UAE employment residence visa
Employer-led and quick, with no personal income tax on salary. Residence is tied to the employer, so the employment contract, end-of-service benefits and notice terms are the parts worth scrutinising before you accept.
Processing time
2-5 weeks
Potential residence pathway
Potential Golden Visa route, subject to criteria
Employer sponsorship
Required, employer sponsors residence
Job offer
Required
Salary threshold
No statutory threshold, set by the contract
Cost
Employer pays permit, medical and Emirates ID fees
Permit duration
2-3 years, renewable
Criteria to verify
- Signed employment contract with a licensed UAE entity.
- Attested degree certificate for professional roles.
- Medical fitness test and biometrics on arrival.
Indicative employer steps
- Obtain the work permit and entry permit.
- Complete medical testing and Emirates ID registration.
- Provide mandatory private health insurance.
Watch out for
- Degree attestation must be done in your home country first.
- Residence ends shortly after employment ends.
- Free zone and mainland rules differ - check which applies.
General educational information only, not immigration or legal advice or an eligibility assessment. Rules change. Confirm current criteria, thresholds, fees and outcomes with the relevant authority or an independent qualified adviser before you act.