Dubai 2-Year Work Visa: Faster and Smoother Process for Indians in 2025

An employment visa in Dubai is a legal document that permits foreign nationals to work there. The employer typically sponsors such a visa and must get approval from the UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or a relevant free zone authority. 

With the recent changes, UAE's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) are simplifying the entry procedure for Indians and organizing the entire visa process. 

 Types of Employment Visa in Dubai 

Dubai offers three types of employment visa, each featured according to the different categories of professionals and needs. 

Standard Work Visa

The standard work visa is the most common and is typically sponsored by an employer in the private sector, government, or free zones. This visa is valid for 2-years and it can be renewed upon expiration.

Green Visa

The green visa is introduced in 2022, this visa is accurate for freelancers, skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs. This visa provides greater independence with a 5-year validity and does not require a sponsor or employer. 

Golden Visa

The golden visa is a long term residency visa and does not require a sponsor, targeting high-net-worth individuals and specialised talents. Eligibility for this visa includes investors with at least AED 2 million, real estate investors with properties valued at AED 2 million or more, entrepreneurs with projects worth AED 500,000. 

Also Read: In-Demand Jobs in UAE and the Benefits of Working in the Emirates

Work Permit Categories 

MOHRE offers 13 different types of work permit for registered establishment and individuals: 

1. A work permit to recruit a worker from outside the UAE.
2. Transfer work permit to transfer a foreign worker from one establishment to another.
3. A work permit for a resident on a family sponsorship.
4. A temporary work permit to hire a worker to complete a job within a specific period
5. One-mission work permit to recruit a worker from abroad to complete a temporary job or a particular project for a specific period
6. A part-time work permit to recruit a worker under a part-time contract where their working hours or days are fewer than a full-time contract. The worker can work for more than one employer after obtaining permission from the ministry
7. A juvenile permit to recruit a juvenile between 15 and 18 years
8. A student training and employment permit to employ a 15-year-old student who is already in the UAE, according to specific regulations and conditions that ensure a suitable training and work environment. 
9. UAE/GCC national permit to employ a UAE or a GCC national
10. A private teacher work permit for workers who wish to obtain a work permit for private tutors in cooperation with the Ministry of Education
11. National trainee permit to train a UAE national according to accredited academic qualifications
12. A freelance permit issued to self-sponsored foreigners in the UAE who provide services or perform tasks to individuals or companies without being sponsored by a specific employer in the UAE and without having an employment contract
13. A Golden Visa holder permit to employ a worker holding the UAE’s Golden Residence visa

Also Read: UAE Tax System: Embrace the Tax-Free Earning Opportunities

Updated Employment Visa Process for 2025 

Job Proposal and Employer Sponsorship: A definite job offer from UAE-registered employers is essential. The employer must act as the sponsor and must manage the visa application process. 

Seek MOHRE Work Permit Approval: The employer secures a work permit from MOHRE, verifying the company’s authorisation to hire foreign professionals. 

Entry Permit Insurance: Once approved, an entry permit is granted, valid for 60 years, allowing the applicants to enter Dubai and complete formalities. 

Medical Examination: A mandatory medical fitness test is required including a blood test and chest X-ray, is required upon arrival. 

Emirates ID Registration: Applicants must register for an Emirates ID, which includes biometric verification. 

Visa Stamping and Residency Approval: The GDRFA stamps the employment visa on the applicant’s passport, finalising their legal residency.

Key Updates in 2025 

AI-powered visa renewals (Salama system)

The UAE’s ‘Salama’ system automates renewal applications, reducing processing times. Salama is an AI-driven platform designed to verify documents and accelerate the approval process.

Visa-On Arrival Evolution For Indians 

Expatriates earning more than AED 4,000 per month are now allowed to sponsor their spouses, children, and even parents.

Also Read: Experience UAE’s Travel and Tourism: A Perfect Combination of Traditional & Modernity

Documents Required to be Eligible to Apply for a Dubai 2-year Employment Visa?

• A valid passport with at least six months validity. 
• A job offer from Dubai- based employer.
• Educational professional certificates, if it's required for the job. 
• A medical clearance certificate from an UAE-approved facility.
• MOHRE work permit approval. 

Why Choose Dubai for Employment 

Speedy Economic Growth: Dubai is a hub of opportunities that offers a wealth of job opportunities across industries. 

Tax-Free Income: No personal income tax, that allows you to maximise your earnings. 

High Standard of Living: Top-notch infrastructure healthcare, and lifestyle options. 

A Route to Long-Term Residency: There are options to transition from work visas to long-term residency programs like the Golden Visa.

All in all, Dubai is a home to vast amount of Indian emigration, with an around 3.5 to 4 million Indians living in Dubai, substituting the biggest expatriate community in the country.

Also Read: Cost of Living in UAE: Experience UAE's High Standard of Living & Benefits

Secure Your Future with a Job Seeker Visa 

Looking to secure a UAE job seeker visa? Look no further. With GetGIS Immigration Consultants, not only do you gain access to expert services for obtaining your visa, but you also tap into a wealth of experience that extends to Europe, where over 50,000 individuals have trusted us for seamless and hassle-free immigration solutions. Let us guide you through the process and pave the way for your successful career journey in the UAE and beyond.