After successfully establishing your company, the most critical step for business growth is hiring a competent team. But before any employee can start working, their legal status must be secured by obtaining employee visas in Dubai. This process, while organized, can be complex and full of details that could expose your company to significant fines if not handled correctly. In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we will cover everything you as a business owner need to know, from visa types and application steps to the expected costs.
Why is Managing Employee Visas Crucial for Your Company?
Properly managing employee visas is not just a routine procedure; it is a fundamental pillar for the success and continuity of your business in the UAE for the following reasons:
- Legal Compliance: Working without a valid visa exposes both your company and the employee to hefty fines and legal action.
- Employee Stability: Providing legal residency gives employees stability and security, which positively impacts their productivity and loyalty.
- Access to Essential Services: A visa enables employees to open bank accounts, rent housing, and access healthcare services.
Comparison of Key Employee Work Visas (2025)
With recent updates, work visa options have become more diverse. This table clarifies the main differences between them:
| Visa Type | Validity | Sponsor | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Work Visa | 2 years (renewable) | The employer (company) | All categories of employees in the private sector, government, and free zones. |
| Green Visa for Skilled Employees | 5 years (renewable) | Self-sponsorship (no sponsor needed) | Skilled workers with a bachelor’s degree and a salary of at least AED 15,000. |
| Virtual Work Visa | 1 year (renewable) | Self-sponsorship | Employees working remotely for companies outside the UAE. |
Steps to Obtain an Employee Visa in Dubai (for Companies)
To obtain a standard work visa for an employee, companies follow these steps:
- Obtain Visa Quota: The company applies to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to determine the number of employees it can hire.
- Sign Offer Letter and Labour Contract: An official job offer is presented to the employee. Upon acceptance, a unified labour contract is signed with the Ministry.
- Issue Employment Entry Permit: After the contract is approved, the company issues an entry permit that allows the employee to enter the UAE for work. It is valid for 60 days.
- Medical Fitness Test: Once the employee arrives, they must undergo a medical test at an approved center.
- Apply for Emirates ID Card: An application for an Emirates ID card is submitted concurrently with the residency procedures.
- Stamp Residency Visa on Passport: After passing the medical test, an application is submitted to stamp the residency visa on the employee’s passport, making their residency fully legal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the cost of an employee visa for the company?
The total cost for a two-year employee visa ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 7,000, including fees for the work permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. The cost may vary slightly between the mainland and free zones.
How long does the entire employee visa process take?
If all documents are ready, the entire process from issuing the entry permit to stamping the residency visa takes approximately 10 to 15 working days.
Can an employee sponsor their family?
Yes, after obtaining their residency, an employee can sponsor their family members (spouse and children) provided they meet the salary and accommodation requirements set by government authorities.
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Focus on Managing Your Business and Leave the Paperwork to Us
Managing employee visas in Dubai requires precision and up-to-date knowledge of the laws. The Tdabeer team offers integrated PRO services to issue and renew your employees’ visas smoothly and efficiently, ensuring your full legal compliance and giving you peace of mind.
