2024 UAE Visa Guide for Aspiring Employees (+ How to Apply and Visa Scam Prevention)

On May 15, we proudly participated in the City University Ajman Career Fair. 

It was a tremendous success! We had the privilege of empowering over 100 students with exciting career opportunities.

Our expert, Nakul Sachdeva, provided personalized guidance to the students. He addressed a crucial question from international students: What types of visas are available for employees who are not UAE residents?

After addressing this issue, our expert team created a comprehensive UAE Visa Guide for Employees.

Read the complete article to discover the UAE Visa Guide for Employees.

Topics to be covered:-

1. Top 3 UAE Visa Types for Employees in 2024

1.1 Standard Work Visa

1.2 Green Visa

1.3 Golden Visa

2. Your 2024 Guide to UAE Visa Applications: Step-by-Step Process

3. Visa Application Fees 2024

4. Visa Cancellation Process and Fees 2024

5. How to Check Visa Status and Validity

6. Beware of Common Visa Scams in the UAE

7. How to Protect Yourself from Visa Scams

8. Wrapping Up

Top 3 UAE Visa Types for Employees in 2024

As the heading suggests, three major types of employment visas exist in the United Arab Emirates.

1. Standard Work Visa

The standard work visa is the most common type of employment visa. It is typically sponsored by an employer in the private sector, government, or free zones. Here are its key features:

• Validity: Valid for 2 years.

• Renewable: It can be renewed after its initial period.

• Sponsorship: An employer sponsors the visa.

• Employment Restriction: The visa holder can work only for the sponsoring employer.

2. Green Visa

Introduced in 2022, the Green Visa provides more flexibility and independence for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs. This visa type aims to attract and retain top talent by offering several advantages over traditional employment visas. Here are its key benefits:

• Validity: Valid for 5 years. This is longer than the standard 2-3 year employment visa.

• No Sponsorship Required: The Green Visa does not need an employer sponsor. This provides more independence for holders compared to standard work visas.

• Renewable: The visa can be renewed under the same terms. This ensures long-term stability for professionals and their families.

• Flexibility: Green Visa holders can sponsor themselves and their family members. This includes spouses, children, and first-degree relatives. It facilitates family unity and work-life balance.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility varies by category:

2.1 Freelancers and Self-employed Individuals

• The permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation

• Bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma

• Proof of income of at least AED 360,000 over the last two years or financial solvency

2.2 Skilled Employees

• Valid employment contract

• Classified under the first, second, or third occupational level by the ministry

• Bachelor’s degree

• Salary of at least AED 15,000 per month

2.3 Investors and Entrepreneurs

• Meet specific financial and business activity requirements

3. Golden Visa

The 10-year Golden Visa offers long-term residency in the UAE without a sponsor. It aims to attract high-net-worth individuals and exceptional talents.

Key Eligibility Criteria:

3.1 Investors

• Investment Fund: Minimum deposit of AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited investment fund.

• Real Estate: Own property worth AED 2 million, including properties purchased with approved loans.

• Public Investors: Hold a commercial or industrial license and pay at least AED 250,000 in annual government tax.

3.2 Entrepreneurs

• Project Requirements: Own a project of a technical or innovative nature worth at least AED 500,000.

• Approvals: Requires approval from an accredited UAE business incubator and local authorities.

3.3 Specialized Talents

• Doctors and Scientists: Approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention or the Emirates Council of Scientists.

• Creative Individuals: Endorsement from local cultural authorities (artists, musicians, performers).

• Athletes: Recommendation from the General Sports Authority or sports councils.

• Executives: Must have a university degree, at least five years of experience, a minimum monthly salary of AED 50,000, and a valid work contract.

3.4 Outstanding Students

• High School: National-level topper with a minimum grade of 95%.

• University: Graduates from the top 100 universities worldwide with a GPA of at least 3.5.

3.5 Humanitarians and Frontline Heroes

• Recognition: Contributions in humanitarian work or exceptional service during crises, endorsed by relevant authorities.

Benefits:

• Long-term renewable residency.

• There is no sponsor requirement.

• Ability to sponsor family members.

• Extended stays outside the UAE without affecting visa status.

Simplified UAE Visa Application Process 2024: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 - Entry Visa Quota Approval

• The employer applies for employment visa quota approval from the Ministry of Labour (MOL).

• Approval is needed due to quotas limiting the number of foreign employees a company can hire.

• The company must comply with regulations regarding adequate office space for employees.

• The process proceeds once the MOL approves the quota application.

Step 2 - Submit Signed Employment Contract

• The employee and employer sign a standardized employment contract.

• This contract includes salaries, benefits, allowances, and probation periods.

• The contract must be submitted to the MOL for approval within 14 days.

• The MOL reviews the contract to ensure it adheres to labor regulations.

Step 3 - Apply for an Entry Permit and Work Visa

• With quota approval granted, the employer applies for the employee's work permit and entry visa through the MOL website.

• Required documents include educational certificates, signed contracts, and passport copies.

Step 4 - Get an Employment Entry Visa

• Once the work permit is approved, the employee receives an Employment Entry Visa via email.

• This visa allows the employee to enter the UAE within 60 days to complete medical testing and Emirates ID registration.

Step 5 - Enter UAE on an Entry Visa

• Upon arrival, the employee undergoes medical testing for fitness and infectious diseases.

• Concurrently, the Emirates ID application is processed to register residency details.

Step 6 - Apply for a Residence Visa

• After clearing medical tests, the employer initiates the residence visa application within the 60-day validity of the entry permit.

• This is done on the ICA website by paying visa fees and uploading necessary documents.

Step 7 - Medical Test

• The employee must take a medical test at an approved medical center within 14 days of arrival.

• This test checks for infectious diseases and other health conditions based on the job role.

Step 8 - Submit Labor Contract

• The signed labor contract must be submitted to the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) within 14 days after medical screening.

• The MOHRE reviews and attests to the contract.

Step 9 - Get Health Insurance

• Employers are required by UAE labor law to provide health insurance coverage for employees.

• This insurance must cover basic needs such as hospitalization, surgeries, and doctor visits.

Step 10 - Receive Residence Visa

• The employer receives the employee's residence visa once the ICA approves the application.

• This visa allows the employee to legally reside and work in the UAE.

Step 11 - Apply for Emirates ID

• An application for an Emirates ID must be submitted within 15 days of arriving in the UAE.

• This national ID card contains the visa and residency details and is essential for various transactions within the country.

Step 12 - Visa Stamping

• Previously, employees needed to get their residence visa stamped on their passports.

• After 2021 reforms, UAE residence visas are now linked to the Emirates ID card, eliminating the need for a physical stamp on the passport.

Visa Application Fees 2024: Government, Private Sector, and Investor/Partner Breakdown

• Government Sector: AED 100 application fee, AED 100 issuance fee per year, AED 150 eChannel fee.

• Private Sector/Free Zone: AED 100 application fee, AED 100 issuance fee per year, AED 150 eChannel fee.

• Investor/Partner Residence: AED 100 application fee, AED 100 issuance fee per year, AED 150 eChannel fee.

Visa Cancellation Process and Fees 2024

• Only the sponsoring employer can cancel the visa by applying to MOL and ICA.

• Fees: AED 50 for request, AED 10 for eService.

• A 28-day grace period is provided post-cancellation to change status or exit the country without fines.

Checking Visa Status and Validity 2024

• Online status checks are available via Dubai and other Emirates' official websites.

• For assistance, call the ICA helpline - 600522222.

Beware of Common Visa Scams in the UAE 2024

Visa fraud is a major issue in the UAE. It targets those seeking work or residency. Here are common types of visa scams and tips to avoid them:

Fake Job Offers and Work Permits

• Scam: Scammers lure victims with lucrative job offers and high salaries. They require upfront payments for visa processing. These offers usually come through free email providers and create a sense of urgency.

• Tip: Genuine employers in the UAE do not ask for visa processing fees from prospective employees. Always verify job offers through official company channels. Consult certified immigration companies.

High-Pressure Tactics

• Scam: Scammers use high-pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency. They push individuals to make immediate payments to secure their visas.

• Tip: Be cautious of any visa service that uses pressure tactics. Legitimate processes are transparent. They allow you time to verify information before proceeding.

Requests for Advanced Payments

• Scam: Fraudsters often ask for upfront payments for administrative costs, expedited services, or processing fees.

• Tip: Legitimate visa processes require payments at specific stages and through secure payment methods. Avoid making payments via wire transfers, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency.

Unverified Websites and Emails

• Scam: Fake visa providers often use unverified websites, social media, and emails to offer the services. These communications may contain poor grammar and spelling errors.

• Tip: Check the authenticity of websites and emails. Look for official logos, contact information, and secure URLs (https://). Always use official government or embassy websites for visa information.

Too Good to Be True Offers

• Scam: Scammers promise guaranteed visa approvals, expedited processes, or job offers without proper documentation or qualifications.

• Tip: Be skeptical of unrealistic promises. Legitimate visa processes have clear regulations and criteria. No outcome is guaranteed without meeting these requirements.

Social Media Adverts

• Scam: Many scams are promoted through social media platforms. They offer job opportunities or visa services.

• Tip: Avoid negotiating visa services over social media. Insist on meeting in person at an official office. Verify the company’s legitimacy before proceeding.

How to Protect Yourself From Visa Scams in the UAE

• Research Thoroughly: Verify visa requirements and authorized service providers through official government websites and consulates.

• Consult Official Channels: Seek advice from accredited visa agencies or embassy offices.

• Use Secure Payment Methods: Pay through secure methods like credit cards. Avoid untraceable payment options.

• Trust Your Instincts: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Verify all claims and seek advice from trusted sources before making any commitments.

Stay informed and vigilant. Protect yourself from visa fraud. Ensure a safe and legitimate visa application process in the UAE.

Wrapping Up Your UAE Visa Journey

In response to the crucial question of visa types for non-UAE residents, we’ve crafted this comprehensive UAE Visa Guide for Employees. We aim to provide clear insights and guidance. S

tay informed and proactive to ensure a smooth and legitimate visa process. Your successful career in the UAE begins with the right knowledge and preparation. 

At TalentPoint, we help you understand the visa process and connect you with top job opportunities in the UAE. Start your journey with us today!

Read more about UAE residents visa policy