Who can apply for a UAE work visa?
The standard UAE work visa is employer-sponsored. You cannot apply on your own, so a confirmed job offer from a UAE-registered company comes first. Beyond that, you need to meet these basic conditions:
Age 18 or above
Applicants must be adults to receive a standard work visa.
Confirmed job offer
A signed offer or contract from a UAE-registered employer.
Medically fit
You must pass the medical fitness test at an approved centre.
No active ban
No existing UAE immigration or labour ban on your record.
Documents checklist
What your employer must provide
Your employer handles the company side of the application. If any of these is missing, the work permit cannot move forward:
| Employer document | Why it is needed |
|---|---|
| Valid trade licence | Proves the company is legally registered and active. |
| MOHRE establishment card | Links the company to the labour ministry system. |
| Signed employment contract | Registered on the MOHRE portal; defines salary and terms. |
| Work permit application and fees | Submitted by the employer; fees are normally employer-paid. |
Requirements by visa type
| Visa type | Main requirement | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard employment | Job offer and employer sponsor | 2 years |
| Skilled worker (Golden) | High monthly salary threshold and skilled role | 5–10 years |
| Labour / skilled worker | Employer contract and medical fitness | 2 years |
| Professional work permit | MOHRE classification for licensed professions | 2 years |
Thresholds and validity can change. Always confirm the latest rules with MOHRE or ICP before applying.
Common mistakes that cause delays
- Passport close to expiry. Renew first if it has less than 6 months left.
- Name mismatch. The spelling must match across passport, certificates and contract.
- Unattested certificates. Start attestation early; it can take longer than the visa itself.
- Wrong photo format. Use a plain white background and a recent photo.
- Incomplete employer documents. An expired trade licence stops the whole application.
Frequently asked questions
No. The standard work visa needs an employer sponsor. Many people enter on a tourist visa to job-hunt, and the employer starts the work permit once an offer is confirmed.
For many skilled and professional roles, yes. Requirements depend on your job and country, so ask your employer which attestation steps apply to you.
The employer normally pays the work permit and visa stamping fees. The employee usually pays for the medical test and Emirates ID. Confirm this in writing before you join.
Not for every role. It is more common for professional visas, so check with your employer or PRO.
The application can be returned or delayed. Keep clear copies of everything and fix any name or date mismatch before submission.