Types of Employment Visa

Types of Employment Visas in Dubai

Dubai offers various types of employment visas to meet the specific needs of individuals and businesses. These visas are regulated by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and are essential for legal employment in the emirate. Below is an overview of the main types of employment visas available in Dubai:

Regular Employment Visa

This is the most common visa issued for individuals who are employed full-time by companies in Dubai.

Key Features:

Valid for 2-3 years (depending on the employer’s location: mainland or free zone).
Sponsored by the employer.
Requires a valid labor contract, medical fitness test, and health insurance.

Free Zone Employment Visa

This visa is specific to employees working in free zone companies in Dubai, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Internet City, or Dubai Multi Commodities Center.

Key Features:

Processed and managed by the respective free zone authority.
Sponsored by the free zone company.
Typically valid for 2-3 years with the option to renew.

Temporary Employment Visa

Ideal for individuals employed on a short-term or project-based contract.

Key Features:

Valid for up to 6 months.
Can be extended depending on the project duration.
Often used by freelancers or consultants.

Mission Visa

This visa is designed for skilled professionals employed on a short-term project or assignment.

Key Features:

Valid for 90 days (extendable).
Processed through MOHRE and requires a temporary labor card.
Often used by companies for specialized roles or urgent project needs.

Golden Visa Employment Category

Employees who qualify under the Golden Visa eligibility criteria, such as highly skilled professionals, can obtain long-term employment residency.

Key Features:

Valid for 5–10 years.
Requires sponsorship by the employer or is self-sponsored (in some cases).
Typically granted to scientists, researchers, healthcare professionals, and senior executives.

Domestic Worker Visa

This visa is for employees hired as domestic helpers, including housemaids, nannies, drivers, and cooks.

Key Features:

Sponsored by an individual or family.
Requires medical tests and insurance coverage.
Valid for 2 years with the option to renew.

Part-Time Work Visa

Allows individuals to work part-time for multiple employers legally in Dubai.

Key Features:

Suitable for students, dependents, and professionals seeking flexible work arrangements.
Requires NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the sponsor for dependents.

Investor or Partner Visa

Issued to individuals who invest in or own a company in Dubai.

Key Features:

Valid for 3 years and renewable.
Self-sponsored visa, as the individual is the business owner or partner.
Often requires a minimum capital investment in the business.

Skilled Worker Visa

Aimed at professionals classified as skilled workers under MOHRE’s Skill Levels 1, 2, and 3, including engineers, healthcare professionals, and IT specialists.

Key Features:

Requires proof of relevant qualifications and certifications.
Valid for 2-3 years.
Includes benefits like health insurance and long-term residency options.

Dependent Employment Visa

Dependents, such as spouses or children under a family visa, can work in Dubai if they obtain a work permit.

Key Features:

Requires a valid work permit approved by MOHRE.
The sponsor remains the primary visa holder (e.g., the spouse or parent).
Validity depends on the employment contract and family visa duration.

Requirements for Employment Visas

Although specific documents may vary based on the visa type, the general requirements include:

Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).
Passport-sized photographs (white background).
Medical fitness test results.
Labor contract approved by MOHRE.
Employer’s trade license and establishment card copy.
Valid health insurance coverage.

Why Choose Alameer Corporate Services?

Navigating employment visas can be challenging. At Alameer Corporate Services, we simplify the process for you by:

Offering end-to-end visa solutions tailored to your needs.
Assisting with document preparation and application submission.
Providing expert consultation on the best visa options for employees or businesses.