The most common UAE visa route is the employment visa sponsored by a UAE employer. Here is a step-by-step guide to the UAE work visa process in 2025.
UAE Employment Visa Overview
When a UAE company hires a foreign national, the company (employer) sponsors a UAE residence visa for the employee. The process involves two authorities: MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) — for the work permit, and ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) — for the residence visa. The visa is tied to the employer — if you leave the job, your visa is cancelled and you have 30 days to exit, find a new employer, or change your visa status.
UAE Employment Visa Process Step by Step
Stage 1: Work Permit (MOHRE). Employer applies for a work permit from MOHRE (done online via the MOHRE portal). MOHRE checks Emiratisation quota compliance (Nafis programme) and approves or rejects the work permit. For most nationalities and professional categories: approval in 2–5 days. Stage 2: Entry Permit (ICP). Employer applies for an entry permit (for the employee to enter UAE). The employee is outside the UAE at this stage — the entry permit allows them to fly to UAE and start the residency process. Valid for 60 days. Stage 3: Arrival and Status Adjustment. Employee arrives in UAE on the entry permit. Medical fitness test (Al Rashfa or approved clinic). Emirates ID biometric registration. Stage 4: Visa Stamping (ICP). ICP stamps the 2-year residence visa in the employee’s passport. Employment visa is valid for 2 years and is renewable.
Employee Visa Costs
Employer typically pays all visa costs. Total cost per employee: AED 5,000–8,000 (government fees: AED 2,500–4,000, medical and Emirates ID: AED 800–1,200, typing services and insurance: AED 700–1,500).