Relative Work Permit

A Relative Work Permit in Dubai allows expatriates to sponsor their family members (spouse, children, or other eligible relatives) to work legally in the UAE under specific conditions. This permit ensures that relatives who are sponsored under a family visa can engage in employment within the country.

Key Features of a Relative Work Permit in Dubai

1. Eligibility: Allows family members residing in the UAE on a family visa to work legally.
2. Employer Responsibility: The employer of the family member must apply for the work permit.
3. Regulatory Body: Issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
4. Validity: Typically valid for 1–2 years, depending on the employment contract.

Eligibility Criteria

To obtain a Relative Work Permit, the following conditions must be met:

1. Residency: The family member must have a valid residency visa sponsored by their relative.
2. Age: The applicant must meet the minimum working age requirements (generally 18 years or older).
3. Employer: The hiring employer must be registered with MOHRE and comply with UAE labor laws.
4. Occupation: The applicant must meet the qualifications and skill level required for the job.

Documents Required

1. Passport Copy: Valid passport of the family member.
2. Residency Visa Copy: Valid UAE residency visa of the family member.
3. Emirates ID: Valid Emirates ID of the family member.
4. Passport and Visa of the Sponsor: Documents of the family member’s sponsor (e.g., spouse or parent).
5. NOC (No Objection Certificate):
   • Issued by the sponsor (spouse, parent, etc.) authorizing the family member to work.
6. Offer Letter: Job offer letter or employment contract from the employer.
7. Labor Card/Contract: Issued by MOHRE.
8. Medical Fitness Certificate: For individuals working in specific industries.
9. Employer Documents: Valid trade license and company registration documents of the hiring employer.

Application Process

1. Step 1: Obtain NOC from Sponsor:
   • The family member’s sponsor (usually the spouse or parent) must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) confirming they have no objections to the family member working.
2. Step 2: Employer Application:
   • The employer submits the work permit application through the MOHRE portal or authorized typing centers.
3. Step 3: Submit Documents:
   • Provide all required documents, including passport, visa, Emirates ID, and the NOC.
4. Step 4: Pay Fees:
   • Pay the applicable work permit fees (varies by job category and level).
5. Step 5: Approval and Issuance:
   • MOHRE processes the application and issues the work permit.
6. Step 6: Start Employment:
   • The family member can now legally work for the employer.

Cost of Relative Work Permit

• The fees for obtaining a work permit vary depending on the skill level of the applicant and the employer’s category. Fees typically range between AED 500 to AED 3,000.

Key Points to Note

1. No Transfer of Sponsorship: The family member’s visa sponsorship remains under the relative (e.g., spouse or parent), even after obtaining a work permit.
2. Compliance: Employers must comply with all UAE labor laws, including providing benefits and fair wages.
3. Legal Consequences: Working without a valid work permit is illegal and may lead to fines or deportation.
4. Renewal: The work permit must be renewed upon expiry, provided the employment continues.

Benefits of a Relative Work Permit

• Legal Employment: Enables family members on a residence visa to work legally.
• Financial Independence: Allows family members to earn an income.
• Employer Flexibility: Employers can hire talent from the expatriate family community without sponsoring a separate visa.

FAQs About Relative Work Permits

1. Can a family visa holder work without a Relative Work Permit?

   • No, family visa holders must have a valid work permit to work legally in Dubai.

2. Who applies for the work permit?

   • The employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the family member.

3. Can a spouse work on a Relative Work Permit?

   • Yes, a spouse can work legally with a Relative Work Permit after obtaining a NOC from their sponsor.

4. Can the work permit be transferred to another employer?

   • Yes, but the new employer must apply for a new work permit and meet all requirements.

5. Is there a minimum salary requirement for the sponsor?

   • Yes, sponsors must meet the minimum salary requirement (usually AED 4,000 – AED 10,000 depending on the visa type) to sponsor family members.

The Relative Work Permit is an excellent solution for family members who wish to work while residing in Dubai under their relative’s sponsorship. Ensure compliance with all UAE labor laws to avoid legal complications. For updated guidelines, check with MOHRE or consult authorized typing centers.