UAE Work Visa Guide: Everything You Need to Know (2025)
- Radu Lupescu
- May 10, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 7, 2025
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a global business hub that attracts millions of professionals and entrepreneurs each year. With its modern infrastructure, tax-free income, safe cities, and strong economic growth, the UAE continues to be a magnet for global talent.
Whether you’re a full-time employee, freelancer, or remote worker, this comprehensive guide explains all available work visa types, including requirements, costs, eligibility, and the application process—updated for 2025.
What is a UAE Work Visa?
A UAE work visa is a legal permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the Emirates. Unlike tourist visas, a work visa requires sponsorship—either by an employer, a free zone authority, or, in some cases, by the individual themself.
The visa is linked to a residency permit, allowing access to services like health insurance, banking, mobile phones, and accommodation.
It is illegal to work on a tourist visa. Transitioning to an appropriate work visa is essential before starting any job or freelance activity.
Types of UAE Work Visas (2025)
1. Standard Employment Visa (Private/Public Sector)
Sponsored by a company based in the UAE mainland or public sector.
Valid for 2 years.
Most common for office, hospitality, engineering, healthcare, and retail roles.
2. Free Zone Work Visa
Issued by free zone authorities (e.g., Dubai Internet City, JAFZA, RAKEZ).
Valid for 2–3 years.
Often faster to process and allows 100% foreign ownership of companies.
3. Domestic Worker Visa
For live-in roles such as housemaids, nannies, or personal drivers.
Sponsored by individuals (UAE residents or nationals).
Regulated by MOHRE under specific laws.
4. Freelance Visa (Self-Sponsorship)
There are two main routes for freelancers in the UAE:
a. Free Zone Freelance Permit
Issued by specific free zones (e.g., Dubai Media City, Dubai Design District).
Requires an annual freelance license and often a residency visa.
Valid for 1–2 years.
Ideal for media, tech, education, consulting, and creative professionals.
b. Green Visa for Freelancers
Launched by the UAE government for self-employed professionals.
Valid for 5 years, renewable.
No company sponsor required.
Allows family sponsorship and longer grace periods.
5. Virtual Work (Remote Work) Visa
Designed for foreign professionals working remotely for a company outside the UAE.
Valid for 1 year, renewable.
Applicants must earn at least USD 3,500/month.
Offers full residency privileges without needing to work for a UAE company.
6. Golden Visa
Long-term residency (up to 10 years) for:
Highly skilled professionals (scientists, coders, doctors)
Investors
Entrepreneurs
Creative talent
Requires qualifications, high income, or significant investment.
UAE Work Visa Application Process (Standard Employment)
Step 1: Offer Letter & Initial Approval
Employer sends a MOHRE-approved job offer.
You sign electronically.
Step 2: Entry Permit
The employer applies for your entry permit (valid 60 days).
Once issued, you may enter the UAE.
Step 3: In-UAE Formalities
Complete a medical fitness test (blood test + X-ray).
Apply for Emirates ID and submit biometrics.
Residency visa is stamped in passport or added digitally.
Employers typically cover all related costs and the process takes up to one week.
UAE Work Visa Cost Breakdown (2025 Estimate)
Category | Estimated Cost (AED) | USD Approx. |
Entry Permit | 500–700 | $135–$190 |
Medical Test | 300–500 | $80–$135 |
Emirates ID (2–3 years) | 370–500 | $100–$135 |
Visa Stamping | 1,000–1,500 | $270–$410 |
Freelance License (Free Zone) | 7,000–10,000 | $1,900–$2,700 |
Green Visa Application | ~2,000–2,500 | $550–$680 |
Virtual Work Visa | 1,050–1,500 | $285–$410 |
Most employers pay for standard employment visas. Freelance, Green, and Virtual Work visas are self-funded.
Duration & Renewal
Visa Type | Validity | Renewal? |
Standard Employment | 2 years | Yes |
Free Zone Visa | 2–3 years | Yes |
Green Visa (Freelance) | 5 years | Yes |
Virtual Work Visa | 1 year | Yes |
Golden Visa | 10 years | Yes |
Family Sponsorship
Visa holders can sponsor:
Spouse and children
Parents (subject to conditions)
Minimum salary to sponsor family:
AED 4,000–5,000/month (depending on emirate and accommodation)
Switching Between Visa Types
You can switch from:
Tourist → Work Visa
Freelance → Employment
Employment → Green Visa, etc.
However, you’ll need to:
Cancel your current residency visa properly
Reapply for a new visa
Sometimes exit and re-enter the UAE (depending on visa type)
Legal Reminders
Overstaying your visa results in daily fines (AED 50–100).
Working without a valid visa is illegal.
Passport retention by employers is not allowed by UAE law.
Always get a written job offer and labor contract.
2025 Policy Updates & Trends
Green Visa Expanded: Now includes more categories like AI professionals, IT workers, and self-employed consultants.
GCC Unified Work Permit (planned): May offer cross-Gulf work access soon.
ICP Smart Services App: Most visa applications and renewals are now digital.
Virtual Work Visa Popularity: Dubai is one of the world’s top destinations for remote workers.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re relocating for a corporate job, launching your freelance career, or just want to live in the UAE while working remotely, there’s now a visa type for every kind of professional. Take time to understand your options, choose the visa that aligns with your goals, and ensure that all documentation is in order.
For personalized guidance, updates, and real-life expat tips, keep browsing UAE Welcome Guide—your trusted resource for working and thriving in the Emirates.
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