UAE 2‑Year Employment Visa Process — August 2025
UAE 2‑Year Employment Visa Process — August 2025
Looking to land a two‑year work visa in the UAE? This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process as of August 2025, with updated timelines, fees, and procedures.
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1. Secure a Job Offer & Signed Contract
Your journey begins when a UAE-based employer offers you a position and registers a signed employment contract with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) or relevant authority.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit (Entry Permit)
The employer applies for a work permit—often called a "labor card" or "entry permit"—through MOHRE's new digital platform. Approval typically takes around 3–7 working days.
3. Entry to UAE
Once approved, you receive an entry permit valid for 60 days, allowing you to enter the country and complete visa formalities.
4. Medical Screening & Biometric Enrollment
On arrival, you undergo a medical fitness test, including blood tests (e.g., HIV, hepatitis) and a chest X‑ray for TB. You’ll also provide biometrics (fingerprints, photograph) for your Emirates ID.
5. Apply for Emirates ID
Apply via the Federal Authority for Identity (ICP), and wait 5–10 working days (express options may speed this up). This ID functions as your legal residency proof and access key for essential services.
6. Visa Stamping / Residency Permit
Submit your passport, medical results, Emirates ID, and employment contract to GDRFA for visa stamping. Processing typically takes 5–10 working days.
7. Timeline Recap
| Step | Duration (Avg) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Approval | 3–7 working days |
| Entry Permit Validity | Up to 60 days |
| Medical & Biometric Processing | 2–5 working days |
| Emirates ID Processing | 5–10 working days |
| Visa Stamping | 5–10 working days |
— Total Estimate | 3–4 weeks, depending on processing speed and express options |
8. Estimated Costs
Typical cost range for a 2‑year employment visa (mainland or Dubai):
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Government & processing fees: AED 3,000–5,000
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Medical testing: AED 300–500
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Emirates ID: AED 370–400
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Typing & visa stamping: AED 500–700
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Health/unemployment insurance: AED 100–200
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Total: approximately AED 4,270–6,800
9. Additional Insights & FAQs
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No more physical visa stickers: Residence details are now electronically linked to the Emirates ID—no passport stamping required.
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Expats already in UAE on visit visas can convert to an employment visa without exiting the country—procedure details available in recent July 2025 guidance.
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Pakistani nationals switching jobs inside UAE: Reports show high transfer approval rates with valid job offers.
Final Thoughts
Most of the process is handled by your employer or their PRO, but being informed helps ensure transparency and efficiency. With streamlined digital systems and new ICP platforms, the process is faster and more accessible than ever.
Let me know if you’d like help with example timelines, documents checklist, or Emirate-specific procedures!
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