For an employee to work legally in the UAE, a work permit (labour card) and a residence visa are needed. The employer, as sponsor, arranges and pays for them.
Who's responsible
- The business is the sponsor: it initiates and pays for the permit and visa
- It needs a valid company licence, an establishment card and a visa quota
- By law these costs can't be deducted from the employee's salary
Stages (for a candidate from abroad)
- Work permit / quota at MOHRE
- Entry permit → entry
- Medical fitness test at an approved centre
- Biometrics and Emirates ID
- Residence visa and contract registration
If the candidate is already in the UAE on a visit visa, a status change without leaving the country is often possible.
Mainland vs free zone
Mainland: processed via MOHRE + immigration, work across the country. Free zone: handled by the zone, work usually within it. The number of visas is typically tied to office space.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between hiring in mainland and free zone?
On the mainland, visas are handled by MOHRE plus immigration (GDRFA/ICP), and the employee can work nationwide. In a free zone, the zone handles processing and work is usually limited to that zone. Visa quotas are often tied to office size.
What steps does a work visa go through?
Typically: offer → MOHRE work permit and quota approval → entry permit → arrival and medical test → biometrics and Emirates ID → residency visa → contract registration with MOHRE. Salary is then paid through the WPS system.
Is medical insurance mandatory for an employee?
Yes, health insurance is a requirement for a UAE residency visa and is provided by the employer. Coverage requirements vary by emirate, so it's best to check the current rules.
Help with hiring and the visa?
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