How To Get UAE Work Permits in 2021 – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
In our previous articles about moving to the UAE, we emphasize the pros and cons of relocating to the country. But, there is more to that, as getting work permits in the United Arab Emirates is crucial. Well, a work permit isn’t the only option to reside in the country, as there are more to look out for in 2021.
Of course, the UAE is a popular destination for expatriates due to its relatively simple visa requirements compared to other countries in the Middle East. And for this reason, the country is known in other continents while they have an excellent choice for companies that are quite expanding internationally.
However, like any other country, there are specific requirements to get any visa application. If your company is in the midst of international expansion, you may not have the time to apply for a UAE work visa. On the other hand, if you partner with a global PEO like Globalization Partner, we got you covered.
Our team of travel expat will get you everything needed to secure your stay in the United Arab Emirates. In addition, before everything, you’ll need an employer willing to hire you and start the necessary procedures to procure your employment visa and work permit if you don’t have one. Does that sound good?
Well, we have compiled this article to meet your requirements. If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about how to get the UAE work permits, look no further. In this article, we will walk through the requirements to get a work permit. Not only that but the types of visas for expats today.
Types of Visas in the UAE
As of the time of writing this article, you should know that the different visa types applicable in the UAE have been a little obscure due to incomplete and incorrect information on the internet. But if you found yourself on this platform, you’ll find that the government issues seven different UAE visas. Without further ado, here are the types of visas available for expats in the UAE.
1. Tourist Visa (30-days)
As the name suggests, this is the type of visa issued to people visiting the United Arab Emirates for leisure purposes. However, this kind of visa has a validity of 58 days from the date of its issuance, and it grants the holder an entry permit of 30 days to visit the country. Essentially, a tourist visa is required to be procured by an individual from a country that does not have a Visa on Arrival Arrangement with UAE.
2. Tourist Visa (90-days)
This is another tourist visa that the UAE government recognizes. It may be issued for either 30 days or for a period of 90 days validity, depending on the plan of the tourist. On the other hand, you can choose between a Single Entry Long Term Visa and a Multiple Entry Long Term Visa for the period of 90 days.
3. Service Visa (14-days)
As the name implies, the service visa is issued to those that wish to stay in the United Arab Emirates for up to 14 days and also has confirmed return tickets or tickets to some other destination on Emirates airlines. This kind of visa is issued to the following people; sales managers, account auditors, corporate delegations, and those who need to visit the country for some commercial purpose.
4. Entry Permit for Companion
This kind of permit is also known as the entry permit for patients and their companions. It is for foreign patients who need to visit Dubai for medical attention. Meanwhile, they must be sponsored by some medical hospital or facility. But there are again two general varieties of this medical permit. One is to allow expat single entry with permission to stay for 90 days. More so, the second type is a multiple-entry permit with the same features as the single entry.
5. E-Visa for GCC Residents
This kind of visa is granted permission to only the residence from GCC, and this must be done before arriving in the UAE. Aside from this fact, expats wishing to use this method or kind of visa must ensure to have a sponsor traveling with them. Again, the entry permit has a validity of 30 days, while the holder has permission to stay in the country for 30 days from the day they enter the United Arab Emirates.
6. Transit Visa in UAE
This is another type of visa to take into consideration. Also, be aware that there are two different types of this visa; the first one is a 48-hour visa while the other one is a 96-hour visa. However, this kind of visa will have to be sponsored by airlines based in Dubai, and it’s a non-extendable visa.
7. Student Visa in UAE
The student visa is for aspiring students who wish to study in colleges and universities in the United Arab Emirates. Not only that, but its eligibility is one year, and the renewal is required upon finishing proof that the individual will be continuing education. Moreover, a new student visa package has been in existence since 2018, which is applicable for five years.
Understanding Work Permit in UAE (2021)
As of today’s digital world, it’s quite reasonable to understand the visa application process of a particular country before traveling to the country, and the UAE is no exception. There’s only one type of work permit in the UAE, often referred to as the labor card.
However, employers in UAE will need to obtain an entry visa, an Emirate ID card, a residence visa before applying for a work permit. On the flip side, to get a residence visa in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll need to provide the following documents.
- A valid passport, photocopy, and recent passport photographs
- An Emirates ID card with an entry permit from the Ministry of Labor
- The results of medical screening and a copy of a company card from the employer
- A copy of the company’s commercial license and a unique certification
After obtaining a residence visa, the employee may now apply for a work permit. And to get this work permit, the employee will need all of the documents listed above as a work permit application form, which must be completed in Arabic, and an employment contract or job offer from a company in the UAE.
Application Process for Work Permit
To understand the UAE work permit to satisfaction and credibility, it may be helpful to think of obtaining this kind of visa from three stages. And they include; getting an employment entry visa, obtaining a residence visa and work permit, and getting an Emirates ID card. Let’s take a look at it.
a) Getting an Entry Visa in UAE
Getting an entry visa is one of the first things to take into consideration. And of course, you need to know that the employment entry visa in the United Arab Emirates is also referred to as the pink visa. With that being said, your employer will have to apply for visa quota approval on your behalf. In addition to this fact, the employer will submit an employment contract to the MOL, and you’ll sign.
Furthermore, the Ministry must approve your work application before issuing you a new employment entry visa. Upon visa approval, you’ll have two months to enter the UAE. On the other hand, after you might have entered the country with a pink visa, you have 60 days to obtain a residence visa and formal work permit.
b) Getting an Emirates ID
Getting an Emirates ID is relatively easy, and it’s required for the medical screening employees to apply for a residence visa. However, to apply for this ID, you must provide your entry visa along with an original passport as well as a copy. Aside from this, you will need to apply in person at the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) center, where you’ll input your biometrics, including fingerprints and a photograph.
c) Obtaining a Work Permit
To apply for a residence visa, you’ll need all the required documents listed in the previous point mentioned earlier. The residence visa in the United Arab Emirates is valid for one to three years, and it can be renewed. This kind of employee’s work permit will be listed as part of the residency visa. And once your work permit is approved, you can officially begin to work in the country without disturbance.
Interesting Facts about the United Arab Emirates
This small Gulf nation has created the world’s first government ministry for artificial intelligence. Located on the southeast end of the Arabian Peninsula, UAE has rocky desert, waterless mountains, wetlands, and coastlines that stretch along the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. In no much talk, we have compiled the fun facts about living in this country; take a look at it below.
Home to World’s Tallest Hotels
Among the fun facts of living in the United Arab Emirates is because it has six world’s tallest hotels. While you must have dinners in different hotels, have you ever been excited to have dinner in the world’s biggest hotels? Well, being the most prominent hotels, the facilities and amenities are infinite. So, in your rip, be sure to include four-star Gevora Hotel and more.
Longest Trading Leaders
Throughout the country’s history, it’s known to have paid attention to developing and maintaining trade networks with many powerful empires. Not only for that, but after gaining independence, the country continued to play one of the leading roles in commerce and worldwide trade market because it had powerful allies and sources to offer.
Home to Several Royal Families
This is one of the unique factors that differentiate Emirates from other countries in the world. It consists of as many as seven emirates united by one religion and language. And it’s worth mentioning that the majority of tourists associate visit the country because of this factor. More so, each of these emirates is controlled by different emirates to ensure the decentralization of power.
Discovery of Oil Sources
The discovery of oil in the United Arab Emirates has radically changed the country’s life. In fact, this source has been the benefits that brought the Emirates its wealth as well as facilitated its development and thriving. Also, in this modern, powerful country, nothing reminds people of the way things were decades ago. In contrast to the countries that lost control over their oil sources, the United Arab Emirates has successfully managed to keep its oil sources under control even until today.
Country That Gained Independence without Violence
History also made it known that Dubai is one of the countries that gained its independence without violence. While under British rule, the government of this country started working on independence, whereas all countries fighting against British rule had to live through lots of armed conflicts and war. And it was due to these oil sources that Britain agreed to sign peaceful agreements declaring the country’s independence and freedom.
Rich Culture and Etiquettes
It’s no doubt that almost everyone in the United Arab Emirates has a good culture. Aside from this fact, everything in this middle-eastern country is opulent. While they are strict when it comes to obeying rules and regulations, the locals do welcome visitors. Again, you can see the world’s largest fleet of largest airplanes in the world is operated by the UAE, and it was the first airline to provide passengers with on-board shower.
Excellent and Unique Uniform Men
If you’ve never been to this country before, we advise you to take a trip to check the unique and gorgeous uniforms of men and women. Not only are they great for this factor, but the Dubai police are one of a kind. They have a range of sports cars for their use, including Bugatti, Ferrari, and of course Lamborghini.
Suitable Places for Expat to Reside
If you’re considering where to live in the United Arab Emirates, we’ve given you the lowdown on the most popular expat hub. Whether you’re single or relocating to the UAE with your family, certain areas continue to attract expats in their droves. Would you love to know them? Check it out now!
Abu Dhabi
With excellent architectural buildings, unique outdoor activities, and stunning places, the benefits of living in Abu Dhabi cannot be overemphasized. In our previous post, we highlighted some of the pros and cons of living in Abu Dhabi; you can check it out to more about this beautiful place in 2021.
Dubai
Dubai is next on our list as it emerged as one of the best destinations for expat tourist attractions. Aside from this fact, shopping is one of the biggest reasons people come to do in Dubai. In fact, Dubai Mall seems to be the largest shopping center in the world. In addition to this, the Palm hotel also draws locals and expats to the city. Other attractions you might want to see in Dubai include; Dubai Creek Park, Burj Khalifa, the nightlife in the Gulf, and many more.
Mirdif
This community is good when you want to live with your family members in the United Arab Emirates. It tops the list of families living in the country with its excellent schools, recreational facilities, tennis courts, volleyball, basketball, and many others, to mention a few. Again, for shopping needs, the center and its Uptown Mirdif have got you covered, and the Small Steps Nursery provides the best care in the city.
Emirates Living
This area encompasses other communities such as the Emirates Hills, the springs, and more, providing residences for families regardless of their budget. Not only that, but they have a gated community of Emirate Hills and provide a secure place for families. More so, these areas are close to other big schools, including Dubai International Academy and Dubai British School.
Khalifa City
As history made it known, this place originally consisting of Khalifa A and Khalifa B are commonly known as Khalifa City and the Shakhbout City. They are popular choices because of the number of top schools and also due to the fact that the city is home to what is locally known as pink shops, where one can find supermarkets and other amenities.
Travel Tips for New Expats in UAE
Unless you’re a committed cynic, it’s hard not to be impressed with the United Arab Emirates’ flashy and manmade marvels. Before you travel to UAE, there are some travel tips you should consider as a new expat. Without further ado, below Are the five essential things to know about its cultures and things.
UAE is a Prayer Pause
Just like the Saudi Arabia culture, Muslims pray five times a day in the United Arab Emirates. And you can hear the haunting, lyrical call to prayer broadcast from nearby mosques. Also, you’ll listen, enjoy, as there are no expectations of non-Muslims in the country. Therefore, get this fact before relocating.
Double-check your Medicals
If you’re visiting the country for the first time, you’ll need to check your medicals because the United Arab Emirates has strict anti-drug laws and zero tolerance for drugs. Even medications that are over-the-counter in some countries could get you arrested. So, always carry a doctor’s prescription for any medication you’re bringing into the country.
Hot Weather Climate
This is one thing that you’d need to be aware of. This means, if you’re not used to a hot weather climate, it’s better not to travel to the United Arab Emirates. This is because; they have a desert climate, so even in winter, the weather is warm and downright sizzling in summer.
Popular Currency and Tipping
If you’re already used to the western world bribery and corruption package, don’t try that in this country. This is because; tipping is not allowed or expected, but it’s a common practice. Besides, most restaurants add a service charge to the bill, and they might even expect you to tip in the long run. Similarly, as good as gold, the currency of the UAE, Dirham is accepted almost everywhere.
Best Time to Travel to UAE
There are a number of factors that can hinder your relocation process. However, knowing these factors will get you ahead of some problems that could affect you. If there’s one thing that is not ideal in the United Arab Emirates, it is the weather. If you want to travel to this country, we can tell you that the best time to travel still falls between February and November.
Frequently Asked Questions about UAE Work Permit
How long is work permit validity?
The work permit validity in the United Arab Emirates is just for a period of two months. Although your employer can renew the permit in the long run but at first, it allows you to enter the country for employment. And it is valid for two months from the date of issue.
Is it difficult to get a work visa in Dubai?
Well, as the most popular destination for expat, home to modern and liberal Emirate, there’s a need for skilled workers in the city. This means, to some extent, it might be challenging to get a work visa. On the other hand, if you’re not a UAE citizen, you’ll need to obtain a work visa to get a job in the country.
What are the types of Employment visas?
Under the UAE Labor Law, research made it known that there are two types of employment contracts. The first one is the limited-term, while the second is the unlimited term. Meanwhile, the difference lies in the provisions for end of service gratuity and termination.
What is a pre-approval work permit?
Interesting! We’re sure you might have searched for this to have a glimpse of what it entails. Before the entry visa is issued, the work permit application must be approved. And during this approval process, the Ministry of Labour usually bases its decision on whether to issue a permit before work. So, this kind of work permit falls in this category.
Conclusion
Getting a UAE work permit can be extremely complicated if you don’t have the requirements. The first step is to get the entry visa and ensure the Ministry of Labour approves. In other news, refer to this as our ultimate travel guide to understand how to get a UAE work permit today.
