UAE free zone companies can hire staff directly, sponsoring their UAE residence visas and work permits. This guide covers the full process from job offer to employee onboarding.
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Quota
Each free zone licence has a maximum visa allocation based on your office size. A flexi desk typically allows 1–3 visas; a dedicated desk 3–6 visas; a private office 6–15+ visas. Check your quota with the free zone authority before hiring.
Step 2: Issue the Employment Offer
Prepare a MOHRE-compliant employment contract. The contract must state: job title, salary (in AED), contract duration (limited or unlimited), working hours, leave entitlement, and the governing law (UAE Labour Law). Send the signed offer letter to the candidate.
Step 3: Apply for the Work Permit (Labour Card)
Submit a work permit application through the relevant free zone portal. The free zone forwards it to MOHRE. Required documents: passport copy, educational certificates (attested), CV, passport-size photo, and employment contract. Work permit approval typically takes 3–7 working days.
Step 4: Apply for the Entry Permit
Once the work permit is approved, apply for an entry permit (if the employee is outside the UAE) or a status change (if already in UAE on another visa). Entry permit is valid for 60 days from issue.
Step 5: Employee Arrives and Completes Medical Fitness
The employee travels to the UAE on their entry permit, completes a medical fitness test at an MOH-approved clinic (results in 1–3 days), and submits biometrics for the Emirates ID at an ICA service centre.
Step 6: Residence Visa Stamping
Submit the stamping application through the free zone portal or a typing centre. The UAE residence visa is stamped in the passport within 3–7 working days. The Emirates ID is mailed within 5–7 working days.
Step 7: Enrol in WPS
Register the employee on the Wage Protection System (WPS) through your UAE bank. Salary must be paid through WPS by the 10th of the following month to remain compliant with MOHRE.