The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a preferred destination for Indian professionals and many others seeking career growth, tax-free income, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re eyeing a short vacation, a business trip, or a long-term work opportunity, understanding the UAE visa process is essential. To work legally, understanding the different UAE work visa is crucial. This article explores the main types of employment visa available, including their descriptions, eligibility, and benefits. With this guide by your side, leave your visa concerns behind and book cheap flights to Dubai to make your dreams come true.
UAE Work Visa for Indians:
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A Dubai visa is the same as a UAE visa. Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and a tourist, business, or visit visa is normally valid for entrance into any of the following: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. So, whether issued by Dubai Immigration or another emirate, a UAE visa often allows you to travel freely within the country.
The UAE/Dubai Work Visa allows Indian professionals to live and work in the UAE legally. To obtain this visa, you must first secure a job offer from a company in the UAE. The employer sponsors the visa and handles most of the paperwork.
Also Read: UAE Visa Requirements: Avoid Rejection & Speed Up the Process
1. Standard Work Visa
The most common UAE work visa for Indians and other expatriates, this visa is sponsored by a UAE-based employer. It allows professionals to live and work legally in the UAE under employer sponsorship.
Validity: Usually 2 years, renewable.
Eligibility: Requires a confirmed job offer, educational qualifications, and medical clearance. The UAE work visa age limit generally starts at 18 years.
Documents Required:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Offer letter or employment contract
- Educational and professional certificates (attested)
- Medical fitness test report (done in UAE)
Benefits: Full residency rights, access to healthcare, banking, and ability to sponsor family members if salary criteria are met.
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2. Green Visa
A 5-year residence visa for working in the UAE designed for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors who prefer self-sponsorship without employer dependency.
Eligibility: Skilled workers with a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 or freelancers with valid permits and income above AED 360,000 annually.
Documents Required:
- Proof of employment or freelance work
- Educational qualifications
- Health insurance
Benefits: Flexibility to change jobs without visa cancellation, family sponsorship, and easier renewal.
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3. Golden Visa
The UAE/Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term 10-year residency visa for investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, and specialized talents, offering stability and multiple entry privileges without a local sponsor.
Eligibility: Investors with property or deposits worth AED 2 million, entrepreneurs with projects valued at AED 500,000, and outstanding professionals.
Documents Required:
- Passport
- Evidence of achievements or investments
- Recommendation letters (if applicable)
- Health insurance
Benefits: Long-term residency, family sponsorship, and enhanced residency security.
Also Read: How to Check in Online? Make the Most of Your E-Ticket
4. Remote Work Visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
Also known as the digital nomad visa, this one-year visa allows professionals employed by companies outside the UAE to live in the UAE and work remotely.
Eligibility: Proof of foreign employment with a minimum monthly income of USD 3,500, valid passport, and health insurance.
Documents Required:
- Passport
- Passport photos
- Employment contract
- Medical test results
Benefits: Legal residency while working remotely, access to UAE services, and family sponsorship eligibility.
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Additional Information:
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UAE Work Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: Indian nationals need a valid passport (minimum 6 months), educational certificates, signed employment contract (for standard visa), medical fitness certificate, and health insurance.
UAE Work Visa Fees: Vary by visa type and skill category, generally starting from AED 200 for initial approvals.
UAE Work Visa Processing Time: Ranges from 3 days to 2 months depending on visa type and completeness of documentation.
Work Permit UAE Check: Applicants can track visa and work permit status online through portals like MOHRE and GDRFA.
UAE Work Visa Category List: Includes standard employment, green visa, golden visa, remote work visa, freelance permits, and specialized permits.
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Other Types of UAE Visas for Indians
Indians can apply for various types of UAE visas depending on the purpose and duration of stay. There are multiple types of Dubai Visas, including:
- UAE/Dubai Tourist Visa: (14 Days Dubai Visa, 30 Days Dubai Visa, and 60 Days Dubai Visa): For leisure and short stays up to 30 or 90 days.
- UAE/Dubai Visa on Arrival: 14-day visa issued at entry for eligible Indian passport holders with valid US, UK, or EU visas.
- UAE/Dubai Transit Visa: Short-term visa (48 to 96 hours) for travelers stopping over in UAE.
- UAE/Dubai Business Visa: For attending meetings, trade fairs, or conferences.
- UAE/Dubai Student Visa: For academic pursuits.
- UAE/Dubai Residence Visa: Often linked to employment, business, or property investment.
Travel and Stay in UAE
For those planning to visit before working or accompanying family, consider reserving the best hotels in Dubai or any other Emirate you are living in and getting familiar with the area you will be living in and the UAE’s transport system, to make your stay comfortable.
Conclusion
Whether you are applying for a standard work visa, green visa, golden visa, or the innovative digital nomad visa, understanding the specific UAE work visa and the application process is key to a smooth transition. With streamlined UAE visa processing time and online application facilities, the UAE continues to attract global talent and remote professionals alike.
This guide combines the latest updates on UAE visa policies for Indians and other nationals seeking to work or live in the UAE. If you wish to learn more about UAE/Dubai visas or apply for one, visit Akbartravels.com.
Happy journey!
FAQs – UAE Work Visa
How to get a work visa for the UAE?
To get a work visa in the UAE, you need a job offer from a UAE-based employer. The employer sponsors the visa and handles most of the application process, including obtaining labor approval and submitting documents to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
How much is a 2-year UAE employment visa?
A 2-year UAE employment visa typically costs between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000, depending on the employer, profession, and type of company. The cost is usually covered by the employer.
Who is eligible for the UAE work visa?
Anyone with a confirmed job offer from a UAE employer and who meets the skill or educational requirements of the job is eligible. The applicant must also pass a medical test and security check.
Is there a 2-year work visa for Dubai?
Yes, Dubai issues 2-year employment visas, commonly sponsored by private sector companies. The visa is renewable upon expiration.
Can I get a UAE work visa without a job offer?
No, a job offer is required to get a standard UAE work visa since it must be sponsored by an employer. However, you can enter on a visit visa and search for a job.
Can I live in the UAE permanently?
Permanent residency isn’t officially available, but long-term options exist, like the 10-year Golden Visa for certain professionals and investors. Most expats live on renewable work or residence visas.
Who is eligible for UAE Golden Visa?
Eligibility includes investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, scientists), outstanding students, and others. Criteria vary by category but generally require notable achievements or investments.
How to get a job in UAE from India?
You can apply through job portals, recruitment agencies, or company websites. Having a strong resume, relevant experience, and UAE-recognized qualifications helps increase your chances.
How to sponsor a work visa in the UAE?
Only registered UAE companies can sponsor a work visa. They must apply for labor approval, issue an entry permit, and complete residency formalities once the employee enters the country.
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