Standard Employment/Work Residence Visa
United Arab Emirates
Last updated: December 19, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$940-$940
3-5 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you live and work in the UAE under an employer's sponsorship. It's the most common way foreign workers enter the UAE. Your employer must be registered with the UAE government to sponsor you. You can legally work, live with your family, and access public services. You're protected by UAE labor laws, including fair wages and paid leave. Healthcare and travel benefits are included. This is different from tourist visas because you can work full-time and stay much longer. Your employer handles most paperwork and fees.
Key Benefits
- Work for your employer without restrictions
- Full legal protection under UAE labor law
- 30 calendar days paid vacation per year
- Bring spouse and children
- Healthcare insurance included
- Travel visa-free to 180+ countries
- Access banking, driver's license, government services
- Paid sick leave and maternity/paternity leave
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years old or older
- Must have valid job offer from UAE registered company
- No criminal record in any country
- Must pass medical fitness test
- Cannot have overstayed UAE visa or violated labor laws
- Must have educational qualifications matching job title
- Employer must have current government registration
Financial Requirement
Employer must pay at least AED 5,000/month (approximately $1,361/month) for bachelor's degree holders. No strict minimum for other education levels.
Documents
- PassportValid for 6+ months with blank visa pages
- Photographs8 recent color photos (4.3cm x 5.5cm), white background, no glasses
- Birth CertificateIf sponsoring children
- Marriage CertificateIf sponsoring spouse
- Employment ContractSigned job offer with salary from employer
- Educational CertificatesDegree/diploma with official attestation from UAE embassy
- Police ClearanceCriminal record check (required for some jobs)
- Medical ReportExam results from approved UAE hospital
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.