UAE work permit rules keep changing. Are you ready for 2026? One small mistake can delay your job, cancel your visa, or result in a fine. This updated guide shows you 9 simple steps to follow—whether you’re applying for the first time or switching employers. Learn what to do, what to avoid, and how to stay legal. Avoid delays, save money, and protect your future. Your work permit journey starts here—don’t miss a step.
What Exactly Is a Work Permit in the UAE?
A work permit in the UAE is your legal approval to work with a registered company. It’s issued by MOHRE and ties your job, visa, and employer together. Without it, you can’t get paid or renew your visa. It’s not the same as a residence visa—you need both. Your employer must apply before your first day. This small paper keeps you legal, safe, and ready to work. Always confirm it’s processed early to avoid delays.
UAE Work Permits 2025: Complete Guide to All 13 Types, Rules, and Costs
Looking to work in the UAE in 2025? You must choose the right work permit. MOHRE offers 13 official permits in 2025. Each one matches a specific visa status, job role, or contract length. Choosing the right one keeps you legal and avoids fines up to AED 50,000. I will explain all permit types, who they’re for, and how to avoid problems.
List of UAE Work Permits (2025)
1. Standard Work Permit
- For: Full-time jobs in the private sector
- Applied by: Employer
- Validity: 2 years (renewable)
2. Job Transfer Permit
- For: Changing jobs without leaving the UAE
- Needs: Offer letter + MOHRE approval
3. Family-Sponsored Work Permit
- For: Spouses or dependents under a family visa
- Needs: Sponsor consent + MOHRE approval
4. Temporary Work Permit
- For: Project-based or seasonal roles
- Validity: Up to 6 months
5. One-Mission Permit
- For: Experts doing one-time jobs or consulting
- Short-term and non-renewable
6. Part-Time Work Permit
- For: Working multiple jobs legally
- Rule: Minimum 20 hours/week
- Read more about part time jobs in dubai.
7. Juvenile Work Permit
- For: Teens aged 15–18
- Conditions: Safe jobs only, 6-hour max/day
- Read more about work hours in dubai.
8. Student Training & Employment Permit
- For: Students aged 15+ in internships or part-time work
- Must be UAE residents
9. Freelance Permit
- For: Writers, designers, coders, and other self-employed
- Applied via Free Zones like DMC, RAKEZ
10. Golden Visa Work Authorization
- For: Golden Visa holders (10 years)
- No employer required
11. Private Teacher Permit
- For: Tutors working from home or online
- Free for 2 years
12. Green Visa Work Permit
- For: Skilled workers, freelancers, and investors
- Self-sponsored, valid 5 years
13. UAE Nationals Work Permit
- For Emiratis joining the private sector
- Linked to Nafis and federal initiatives
Work Permit Fees in 2025 (Approximate)
| Permit Type | Cost (AED) | Note |
| Standard | 250 – 3,450 | Based on company classification |
| Temporary | 500 – 2,000 | Depends on project |
| Freelance | 7,500+ | Varies by Free Zone |
| Private Teacher | Free | MOE approval required |
| Part-Time | 350 – 1,200 | Paid per job/employer |
| Student / Juvenile | 150 – 300 | With a valid student visa |
Why Choosing the Right Permit Matters
- Using the wrong permit = fine of AED 50,000
- Companies may be suspended or blacklisted
- Freelancers must report all income sources
- Golden and green visa holders must keep status updated.
- MOHRE does routine checks and audits
Tips Before You Apply
- Visit MOHRE’s official website for updates
- Students can combine part-time and freelance permits
- Freelancers should compare Free Zones for cheaper fees
- Cancel old permits before switching jobs
- For help, contact Business Link UAE
UAE work permits in 2025 are not one-size-fits-all. Match your job type, visa status, and contract length with the right permit. It’s the only way to stay legal, avoid delays, and protect your future. Always check with MOHRE or trusted consultants like Business Link UAE before applying.
What are the key requirements to get a work permit in the UAE?
If you go by all the rules, applying for a work visa in the United Arab Emirates is easy. One missed detail can delay your job or cancel your application.
Here’s what you and your employer must prepare to get approved in 2025:
1. Company Trade License (Must Be Active)
- The employer’s UAE trade license must be current.
- The company must not be under the MOHRE Category C
- Always check the license number on the official MOHRE website.
2. Job Contract with Full Details
- Must be signed by both parties
- Job title, responsibilities, pay, working hours, and perks should all be made clear.
- All new contracts are fixed-term only (maximum 3 years)
3. Attested Academic Certificates
- Required for most skilled roles
- Certificates must be stamped by:
- Your home country’s authorities
- UAE embassy in your home country
- UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
- Use the UAE Pass app to track certificate status
4. Medical Fitness Certificate
- Mandatory test at an approved UAE medical center
- Includes blood tests, TB, HIV, and hepatitis
- Failing results lead to automatic visa cancellation
5. Emirates ID Biometric Application
- Complete within 14 days of arrival
- Includes fingerprinting and photo at an official center
- Emirates ID unlocks access to:
- Banks
- SIM cards
- Rental agreements
- Government apps
6. Valid Passport + Photos
- The passport must be valid for over 6 months.
- Photos: white background, no glasses, no smiling
- Don’t stamp photo pages—your visa may get rejected
7. Proof of Health Insurance
- All employers must provide valid insurance
- Policy must cover:
- Hospital stays
- Emergency care
- Surgeries
- Minimum coverage of AED 500,000
- Confirm it via the DHA smart app
UAE Work Permit Cost in 2025 (Updated Breakdown)
| Requirement | Cost Range (AED) | Who Pays? |
| Work Permit Issuance | 250 – 3,450 | Employer |
| Medical Fitness Test | 500 – 1,500 | You / Employer |
| Emirates ID | 370 – 870 | You |
| Visa Stamping | 200 – 500 | Employer |
| Document Attestation | 800 – 2,000+ | You |
Source: MOHRE UAE Fee Guidelines, 2025
Skip attestation? You lose your permit. Allocate AED 1,500+ and 3 weeks minimum to get it done.
5 Common Reasons for Work Permit Rejection
- Expired Company Trade License→ Always check it on MOHRE’s official site.
- Missing Attestation on Degrees→ MOFA stamp is mandatory for skilled job roles.
- Incomplete Medical Exams→ Some clinics skip hepatitis tests—ask for the full report.
- Wrong Passport Photos→ No glasses, neutral face, white background. Use the ICA photo checker.
- Fake or Incomplete Insurance→ Confirm active policy using the DHA app.
Insider Advice Most Applicants Miss
- Students: Use a part-time work permit + freelance license for legal dual income
- Golden Visa Holders: Still need a permit to work, but don’t need a sponsor.
- Teachers: You can apply for a two-year, free private tutoring permit.
- Emiratization Update (June 2025): MOHRE now auto-rejects permits from companies with unpaid Emiratization fines
Getting a work permit in the 2025 UAE is easy—if you follow this guide. Don’t skip verification, attestation, or insurance. Stay updated with MOHRE announcements.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in the UAE 2025: 9 easy steps
Applying for a work permit in the UAE requires clear steps for you and your employer. Following them helps avoid delays.
UAE Work Permit Application Process
Getting a work permit in the UAE is mandatory for legal employment. You and your employer must complete several steps in order. Here’s a simple, clear breakdown.
1. Secure a Job Offer from a Registered UAE Company
First, get a formal job offer from a licensed UAE company.. Employers on the mainland and in free zones are included in this.. Only registered companies can hire foreign workers.
2. Sign the Employment Contract
Review the contract carefully before signing. It must state:
- Job title
- Monthly salary
- Working hours
- Benefits
- Contract duration (usually not more than 3 years, as per UAE law)
3. Employer Applies for Work Permit
Your employer submits the application to MOHRE or a free zone authority. Required documents may include:
* Your signed contract
* Establishment card
4. Submit Required Documents
You must provide:
- A valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Passport-size photos (white background, no glasses)
- Attested educational and professional certificates
- Signed job contract
Make sure documents are complete, clear, and properly attested.
5. Receive Entry Permit (if outside the UAE)
If you’re applying from abroad, you’ll get an entry permit—often called the pink visa—after MOHRE approval. This allows legal entry into the country.
6. Take the Medical Fitness Test
You must undergo a health check at a government-approved clinic. This includes screening for:
- HIV
- TB
- Hepatitis
Your application can be rejected if you don’t pass this test.
7. Register for Emirates ID (Biometrics Required)
Within 14 days of arriving, go to a biometric center for:
- Fingerprints
- Photograph
The Emirates ID is necessary for daily life in the UAE, such as opening a bank account or getting a SIM card.
8. Residence Visa Stamping
Your employer finalizes your residency visa. This includes passport stamping, confirming your legal stay and work status.
9. Get Your Work Permit (Labor Card)
- Your work card is issued once all the procedures are finished.
- It demonstrates your eligibility to work in the United Arab Emirates.
- Keep it valid at all times.
UAE Work Permit Process Table
| Step | Who Handles It | Required Details |
| 1. Job Offer | Employer | Company offer |
| 2. Contract Signing | You | Job details, salary |
| 3. Quota Approval | Employer | Active license, MOHRE access |
| 4. Work Permit Request | Employer | Approved contract, job info |
| 5. Entry Permit | Employer | MOHRE/free zone approval |
| 6. Enter the UAE | You | Entry visa, valid passport |
| 7. Medical Test | You | Health check result |
| 8. Emirates ID | You | Biometrics, application |
| 9. Visa + Labor Card | Employer & You | Complete document package |
Finally
- Always keep copies of your documents ready.
- Don’t miss a step—every stage matters
- Stay in touch with your sponsor via the process
- Small mistakes or delays may affect the permit status
- Most steps are done online or at approved UAE offices
For help, visit BusinessLinkUAE.com to make sure your application goes smoothly from start to finish.
In the UAE, how long is a work permit valid?
The validity of a work permit in the UAE depends on the type of visa issued and the sponsor behind it. The type of work visa you have determines how long it will last in the United Arab Emirates. Each permit has different rules and time limits. Here’s what you need to know:
Standard Work Permit
- Valid for: 2 years
- Sponsor: Employer or company
- Can renew? Yes
- Used by: Private companies and free zone firms
- Details: After 2 years, your employer can apply to renew it. You need to update your Emirates ID and pass a medical exam once more.
Green Visa
- Valid for: 5 years
- Sponsor: No employer needed
- Can renew? Yes
- Best for:
- Skilled professionals
- Freelancers
- Investors
- Partners
- Details: You apply on your own. You must meet the job or income rules. This visa gives more freedom than the standard permit.
Golden Visa
- Valid for: 5 or 10 years
- Sponsor: Self-sponsored
- Can renew? Yes
- Ideal for:
- Business owners
- Scientists
- Experts
- High-achieving students
- Details: This visa is for people with special skills or big investments. It allows long-term stay without depending on a company.
Temporary Work Permit
- Valid for: Up to 6 months
- Sponsor: Employer
- Can renew? No
- Good for:
- Short jobs
- Trials
- Project-based roles
- Details: This permit suits people hired for short tasks. Once it ends, the person must leave or get another permit.
Final Notes
- Your work permit usually matches your job contract.
- Always check expiry dates.
- Late renewals may lead to fines.
- Your sponsor must apply for renewals on time.
What is the difference between a work permit, a work visa, and a residence visa in the UAE?
If you plan to work in the UAE, you need three key approvals:
- Work Permit (permission to work)
- Work Visa (permission to enter)
- Residence Visa (permission to stay)
Each one is different. Each one is essential. Skipping any step can delay or cancel your application.
What’s the Difference Between Them?
1. Work Permit
- What it is: Your employer’s paperwork permission to hire you.
- Issued by MOHRE (for mainland jobs) or the free zone authority (for free zone companies).
- It proves that your employer is authorized to recruit foreign staff.
- You won’t receive a printed document—this is done inside the system.
- This must be applied for by your employer before your arrival in the nation.
Used For: Starting the hiring process
Handled By: Employer
When: After job offer, before work visa
Validity: Job-based
2. Work Visa (Entry Permit or Pink Visa)
- You can enter the UAE with the entry permit after your work permit has been approved.
- This is also called the pink visa.
- It’s a physical visa that appears in your passport.
- Valid for 60 to 90 days, during which you must finish the next steps.
- Without this, you can’t legally enter for employment.
Used For: Entering the UAE
Handled By: Employer + Immigration
When: After work permit
Validity: 60–90 days
3. Residence Visa
- After arriving, you’ll need to:
- Pass a medical fitness test
- Provide biometrics for your Emirates ID
- Your passport is stamped with the resident visa once it has been approved.
- lets you spend one to three years living, working, and visiting the United Arab Emirates.
- You need it to open a bank account, rent housing, register utilities, and sponsor a family
Used For: Legal stay
Handled By: Employer + Immigration
When: After arrival and medical check
Validity: 1–3 years (renewable)
Process Overview: Step-by-Step
| Step | Who Handles It | What You Need |
| Job Offer + Contract | You + Employer | Clear job role, salary, and signed employment contract |
| Work Permit Application | Employer | Company trade license, signed contract, MOHRE, or free zone access |
| Entry Permit (Work Visa) | Employer | Passport copy, MOHRE approval, job title, and details |
| Medical Fitness Test | You | Visit an approved UAE clinic and pass a health screening |
| Emirates ID Biometric Submission | You | Fingerprints and a photo at an authorized biometric center |
| Residence Visa Stamping | Employer | Passport, medical report, Emirates ID registration confirmation |
| Labor Card / Work Permit Card | Employer | Final proof of legal employment status |
Example Timeline
Let’s say you’re applying from abroad:
| Week | Step |
| 1 | Get a job offer |
| 2–3 | The employer applies for a work permit |
| 4 | Receive your entry visa |
| 5 | Arrive in the UAE and complete the medical test |
| 6 | Submit biometrics for the Emirates ID |
| 7 | Residence visa stamped in passport |
| 8 | Receive your labor card |
Final Checklist Before You Travel
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Attested degree or certificate (home country + UAE Embassy + MOFA)
- Passport-size photos (white background, no glasses)
- Signed job contract
- Entry permit copy
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing work visa and work permit: They’re not the same. The permit is the employer’s approval. The visa is your entry pass.
- Delaying medical tests after arrival: Complete it fast, or your entry visa will expire.
- Not following the correct order: You must get a work permit → entry visa → residence visa—in that order.
Quick Reference Table
| Document | What It Does | Physical? | When Issued |
| Work Permit | Employer’s approval to hire you | No | Before travel |
| Entry Permit | Visa for entering the UAE for a job | Yes | After permit approval |
| Residence Visa | Legal stay and work in the UAE | Yes | After arrival and procedures |
Want Help with the Whole Process?
Visit www.businesslinkuae.com to avoid delays and get expert assistance.
They help with:
- Work permits
- Visa documentation
- Emirates ID registration
- Medical test booking
- Legal compliance steps
You focus on your new job. They handle the paperwork.
Common Reasons for UAE Work Permit Rejection
Work permit rejections in the UAE are avoidable—but only if you know what to watch out for. Below is a complete list of the most common reasons your application might fail. Every item is based on actual case patterns seen by UAE authorities like MOHRE and immigration offices.
1. Missing or Incomplete Documents
This is the leading reason for rejection. If you skip even one needed document, your application won’t be accepted.
Examples include:
- Missing passport copy
- Unattested certificates
- No signed contract
- Blank fields on application forms
Tip: Always prepare a document checklist and verify with your employer before submission.
2. Spelling Mistakes or Mismatched Info
Even small errors can cause big problems.
Examples:
- Name spelling mismatch between the passport and the application
- Wrong passport number
- Incorrect date of birth
UAE immigration systems are strict. If the data doesn’t match exactly, your request may be flagged and rejected.
3. Blurry or Low-Quality Photos and Scans
Photos must meet UAE guidelines:
- White background
- No glasses
- Neutral expression
- High resolution
Documents should be scanned clearly in color. Any blurred or cropped pages often result in a refusal.
4. Previous Visa or Immigration Violations
MOHRE checks your visa history.
Red flags include:
- Overstaying a previous visa
- Not canceling an earlier visa properly
- Working while on a tourist visa
Any of these may cause automatic rejection.
5. Criminal Background
UAE authorities run background checks.
A confirmed criminal record—especially involving fraud, drugs, or violence—can result in denial.
Even pending legal cases might affect approval chances.
6. Medical Concerns
In the UAE, passing a medical fitness test is a requirement for all applicants.
If you are diagnosed with certain communicable diseases (like HIV, TB, or Hepatitis), the residence process will be stopped.
Tip: Do not submit fake medical reports—this leads to permanent blacklisting.
7. Inconsistent Information Across Documents
Your job title, salary, name, and company details must match across all documents.
If your contract says “Sales Manager” but the application says “Sales Executive,” that’s a red flag.
UAE systems are interconnected—any mismatch is flagged.
8. Use of Handwritten Passports
The UAE does not accept handwritten passports.
Your passport must be machine-readable with a barcode.
Otherwise, your application will be rejected automatically.
Quick Checklist to Avoid Rejection
| Factor | Action to Take |
| Missing documents | Double-check each requirement with your employer |
| Typing errors | Review all spelling and numbers before submission |
| Photo quality | Follow UAE photo rules (white background, clear face) |
| Previous visa history | Cancel old visas properly before applying |
| Health test | Use a government-approved UAE clinic |
| Matching information | Ensure all documents align with your application |
| Valid passport format | Use only machine-readable passports |
Finally
- Before submitting, always double-check your application with your sponsor.
- Use original, attested documents—no scans of scans
- Make sure your Emirates ID, contract, and application say the same thing
- Don’t apply while under another active visa unless officially canceled
What Happens If Your UAE Work Permit Expires?
You lose your legal right to live and work in the United Arab Emirates if your work permit or residency visa expires. Ignoring the expiry can lead to penalties, fines, and even a ban. Here’s how to deal with it and what to anticipate.
1. Renew Before Expiry
Your employer (sponsor) is responsible for renewing your residence visa before it expires. This includes updating your work permit through MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Key Timeline:
- The majority of residency visas and work permits have a two- or three-year validity period.
- Renewal should be started at least 1 month before expiry.
2. Grace Period After Expiry
If your permit expires, you enter a grace period. For most work-related residence visas in the UAE, this period is up to 90 days. You can stay in the country legally during this time, but you must either:
- Renew your visa
- Transfer to a new sponsor
- Exit the UAE
Important: You cannot work during the grace period unless the permit is renewed.
3. Overstaying Consequences
If you don’t act before the grace period ends, you will begin accumulating daily overstay fines:
- AED 50 per day, starting from the 91st day after expiry
- You may also face restrictions on future visas
- Immigration may issue a ban in extreme cases
4. What You Should Do
- Check visa and permit expiry dates regularly
- Request that your employer start the renewal process early.
- If you’re switching jobs, ensure the new sponsor handles your transfer before your old visa expires
- If you’re exiting the UAE, cancel the permit legally to avoid future problems
How to check work permit status in uae?
Easily track your UAE work permit status online through official platforms. Use either the MOHRE website or mobile app for a quick Work Permit UAE check. Just enter your passport number, Emirates ID, or reference number to see your current permit status and related details instantly.
Why It’s Important to Check Your Work Permit
Your work permit shows whether you’re allowed to work in the UAE. If it’s expired, not approved yet, or has the wrong details, you could face fines or legal issues. That’s why checking your status regularly is essential.
Method 1: Through the MOHRE Website
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) offers a fast and free online check.
Steps to follow:
- Go to the official MOHRE website: www.mohre.gov.ae
- Click on “Services” in the menu
- Choose “Labour Card Information” or “Enquiry Services”
- Enter your details:
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Date of birth
You can also use:
- Emirates ID number
- Work permit application number
Information you’ll get:
- Status of your permit (active, pending, expired)
- Employer name
- Job title
- Date of issue and expiry
Method 2: Using the MOHRE Mobile Application
You can use your phone to check your permit as well. The app is available on both Android and iPhone.
How to use it:
- Download the MOHRE app from the App Store
- Open the app and go to Employee Services
- Tap Labour Card Inquiry.
- Enter your passport or Emirates ID number
The app shows the same data you’d see on the website, including updates and validity status.
Key Facts About UAE Work Permit and Grace Period
| Topic | Details |
| Renewal Timeframe | Start the procedure of renewing your permit at least thirty days before its expiration. |
| Grace Period After Expiry | Most UAE work visas offer a 90-day grace period after expiry |
| Overstay Penalty | AED 50 fine per day once the grace period ends |
| Status Check via MOHRE | Use the MOHRE app or website to check your visa status |
| Info You Need to Check Status | possess your passport number, Emirates ID, application number, or nationality |
| Can You Work During the Grace Period? | No. You must renew the visa to work legally |
Things to Watch For
- Expired permit showing as active.
- Details like job title or employer do not match your current contract.
- For more than a few days, the status remained frozen at under process.
- The old visa was not canceled before a new one was issued.
- Fixing these early prevents bigger issues later.
Final Tips
- Always know when your permit and visa expire.
- Keep a printout or screenshot of your most recent labor status.
- Talk to your employer if anything looks wrong.
Businesslink UAE offers direct help with checking your labor card, Visa renewals, Permit corrections, and Legal sponsor transfers
Summary
Still unsure what to do next? Don’t risk delays or costly mistakes. The article What Are the 9 Easy Steps to Get a UAE Work Permit in 2025? gave you the full picture—clear, simple, and legal. Business LinkUAE helps you get it done right the first time. No stress. No wasted time. Call now. Get expert support from people who know the system inside out. Your UAE work permit starts with one step—take it today.
FAQ’s
Can You Check Work Permit Status Online?
Yes. You can check it on:
- MOHRE official portal
- ICA website
Use your passport or labor card number to track your permit.
What Is a Work Permit UAE Check?
It’s an online tool that helps you confirm your permit’s details. You’ll need:
- Your passport number
- Or your labor card info
It shows your permit’s status and expiry.
Do Freelancers Need a Work Permit?
Yes. Freelancers must apply for a freelance permit. It’s issued by zones like:
- Dubai Media City
- Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT)
You must also have:
- Proof of yearly income or experience
- Health insurance
Freelancer permits are valid for 2 to 3 years.
What If Your Work Permit Expires?
Renew it early. Do these:
- Apply 30 days before the expiry date
- Take a medical exam if asked
- Pay the required fees
If you delay, you may be fined AED 100 per day. You could also face deportation.
Can Free Zone Companies Give Work Permits?
Yes. Many free zones issue permits, such as:
- Dubai Internet City
- RAKEZ
- DMCC
Each free zone has its own rules. Check with the zone before applying.
How Long Is a Work Permit Valid?
Permit length depends on the job type:
- Mainland: usually 2 years
- Free zones: up to 3 years
- Golden Visa holders: 5 to 10 years
Apply for renewal before the permit runs out.
