UAE Work Visa for Indians 2024: Eligibility, Process, and Fee

Dubai which is a dynamic hub of innovation and opportunity has also become one of the top destinations for working professionals seeking employment opportunities abroad. With a thriving economy, tax-free income, and an exciting Dubai lifestyle, it is no wonder that professionals from around the world are drawn to this city.

This guide will equip you with comprehensive insights into the Dubai work visas - its requirements, application process, and important updates related to employment in this Emirates city.

Types of Dubai Work Visas

There are various categories of UAE work visas offered by the United Arab Emirates depending on the nature of the employment. These include:

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Categories of Dubai Work Visas

Based on the educational qualification of the applicant and their skill set the applicants are categorized into 1 of the 3 Dubai Work Visa Categories, which include

1. Category 1: Have a Bachelor’s degree
2. Category 2: Have a Post Secondary Diploma
3. Category 3: Have a High School Diploma

Eligibility Requirement for Dubai Work Permit

There are a certain set of requirements for obtaining a Dubai Work Permit for Indian citizens. The mandatory eligibility criteria to be met include:

• Applicant must be at least 18 years of age
• Applicant must have a valid employment contract or job offer from Dubai based company
• Applicant must be of good health, an examination for communicable diseases such as HIV and Tuberculosis is mandatory
• For skilled jobs, applicants must provide proof of their educational qualifications
• Applicant must have a clear criminal record with no prior criminal convictions

Documents Required to Apply for Dubai Work Visas

The specific document requirements for a Dubai work permit may vary based on the job role and the applicant's nationality. The employer is responsible for submitting the visa application on behalf of the employee and must also demonstrate that the company is properly registered and that the position cannot be felt locally.

The general set of documents needed to support employers' applications includes

• Valid passport (minimum of 6 months validity)
• Completed visa application form
• Passport-size photograph of the applicant
• Application fee receipt (paid by the employer)
• Entry permit issued by the Ministry of Labour
• Valid health certificate from a government-authorized hospital or health center in the UAE
• Three copies of the employment contract (for the employer, employee, and the Ministry of Labour)
• Educational certificates authenticated by the UAE embassy or consulate and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country
• Academic and Professional experience certificates
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Work Experience Certificate
  • Payslips
  • Experience letters
  • Recommendation letters
• Sponsoring the company's valid trade license

*Additional documents or information may be required depending on the applicant's country of origin.

Also Explore: Unveil Dubai Cost of Living for Students and Expats in 2024

Application Process for Dubai Work Visas

Now that you have learned about the eligibility and requirements for Dubai work visas let us now explore the process for obtaining a work permit in Dubai

Step 1: Gain Employer Sponsorship

The hiring company must initiate the process by applying for a work permit on behalf of the employee through (MOHRE) the employer also handles the employee's visa

Step 2: Receiving Entry Permit

Once the Dubai work permit is approved the employee is issued a Dubai entry permit allowing them to enter Dubai city

Step 3: Complete Medical Examination Process

Upon arrival in Dubai, the employee undergoes a medical test at the government-approved health center

Step 4: Apply for Emirates ID

The employee must apply for an Emirates ID which serves as an identification card and is required for various legal and financial transactions

Step 5: Receiving Residence visa & Final Work Permit

Completing the medical and ID process the employee receives their residence visa and final work permit allowing them to begin working legally in Dubai

Also Read: How to Settle in Dubai from India?

Cost of Work Permit in Dubai

The cost of obtaining a work permit in Dubai varies depending on the industry job category and whether the employer is located in a free zone or not. On average work visa cost range from AED 3000 to AED 7000 which is typically covered by the employer

Processing Time for Dubai Work Visa

The processing time for a Dubai work permit is estimated to be between two to four weeks that is from the time of application submission to the issuance of the final work permit

Renewal of Work Permit in Dubai

The Dubai work visas typically have a validity of 2 years after which they can be renewed by the employer. If the employee resigns or has been terminated, the work permit must be canceled by the employer. The employee must also exit the country unless they have secured another job in Dubai and must transfer their work permit to the new employer.

Why Choose to Work in Dubai?

Before we wind up the article understanding the benefits of working in Dubai is crucial to help working professionals realize the true potential that the UAE country and this Emirates city could offer.

• Dubai's workforce is dominated by expats who make up to 90% of the population - majorly in sectors such as construction finance hospitality and technology
• According to recent studies IT professionals, engineers, finance experts, sales managers, and healthcare professionals are among the most in-demand jobs in Dubai.
• Working in the UAE creates an opportunity to earn a lucrative average salary in Dubai around AED 16,500 per month
• The unemployment rate in Dubai remains low at just 3.4% largely due to cities continuous infrastructure and development projects that create ample job opportunities
• Free zones in Dubai are special economic areas that offer tax advantages and exemptions for foreign-owned businesses, like Dubai Internet City, Jabel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Media City

Also Read: 15 High Paying Jobs in Dubai: Skills & Salaries

Worker Rights in Dubai

Dubai’s labor laws are designed to protect the rights of employees, particularly foreign working professionals in Dubai. Some of the key protection rights include:

• Though there is no formal minimum wage in Dubai, unskilled workers in industries like construction are entitled to fair compensation. Salaries can be directly negotiated with employers.
• Employees are entitled to an 8-hour workday or a 48-hour workweek, working overtime must be compensated at a higher rate.
• Working professionals are entitled to 30 days of annual paid leave after the completion of 1 year of service. Sick leaves and maternity leaves are also provided.
• Expats are also eligible for gratuity at the end of their service, based on their salary and years of employment.

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

Want to Work in Dubai? Apply for a Job Seeker Visa

Whether you are drawn to the city's world-class infrastructure or its vibrant economy, securing a work permit is the first step towards embarking on your professional journey in Dubai. With its vast employment opportunities, favorable tax policies, and high quality of life, Dubai remains a top destination for global professionals.

The best part is now you can experience and facilitate your job search prospects in Dubai with the UAE job seeker visa. Reach out to GetGIS immigration assistance to verify your eligibility to Dubai and kickstart your application process.

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