UAE Employment Visa
work Legally, grow Professionally, thrive in the UAE.
At Upzone, we make business setup in the UAE effortless and strategic. Whether you're a startup founder, a global investor, or scaling an existing venture, our expert team simplifies every step—so you can focus on growth, not red tape.
From the right license structure to choosing the ideal Free Zone or mainland setup, we align your vision with solutions that fit your goals, budget, and timeline.
About UAE Employment Visa
Opportunity. Legitimacy. Progress.
The UAE Employment Visa grants foreign professionals the legal right to work and live in the country under a UAE-based employer’s sponsorship. It's a key requirement for expats contributing to the nation's thriving private and public sectors.
Issued for 2 years (mainland or Free Zones), the visa includes medical testing, Emirates ID issuance, and labor contract verification. It’s the cornerstone of formal employment in one of the most dynamic job markets in the world.
At Upzone, we support businesses and individuals in navigating the employment visa process, whether you're an employer bringing in global talent or a professional securing a new role in the UAE.
Because in the UAE, opportunity begins with the right visa.
UAE Employment Visa
Types of Employment Visas
Standard
Employment Visa
- Sponsored by a UAE mainland-licensed company
- 2-year residence visa application / pre-approval
- Current visa cancellation (if applicable)
- Medical fitness test
- Visa stamping in passport
- Emirates ID issuance
- Processing time: 2–3 weeks
Free Zone
Employment Visa
- Sponsored by a registered Free Zone company
- 2-year residence visa application / pre-approval
- Current visa cancellation (if applicable)
- Medical fitness test
- Visa stamping in passport
- Emirates ID issuance
- Processing time: 1–2 weeks
Mission / Temporary
Work Permit
- Short-term employment authorization for specific projects or temporary assignments
- Work permit application / pre-approval
- Medical fitness test (if applicable)
- Entry permit and visa stamping (valid for project duration)
- Emirates ID issuance (if applicable)
- Processing time: 5–10 working days
Pricing and Documents
Efficiency. Accuracy. Legitimacy.
The cost and requirements for a UAE Employment Visa vary based on company type, location (Free Zone vs Mainland), and applicant nationality.
Common Required Documents:
- Valid passport copy (6+ months)
- Digital passport-size photo (white background)
- Offer letter or labor contract
- Entry permit (if applying from outside UAE)
- Medical fitness test results
- Emirates ID application
- Attested academic certificates (for skilled professions)
- MOHRE or Free Zone authority approvals
- Copy of company trade license (for employer)
At Upzone, we coordinate all government touchpoints—so you get approved faster, without delays or missteps.
Because in business, speed and compliance go hand in hand.
Step by Step Guide
Get Your UAE Employment Visa
in simple 5 steps
Sign
labor
contract
Apply
work
permit
Medical
test
biometrics
Visa
passport
stamping
Issue
Emirates
ID
How can we help?
Freezone license FAQ
Here are a few of the common ones that we get, along with answers to the questions. Contact us if any of your questions are not answered here.
1. Who can apply for a UAE Employment Visa?
Foreign professionals with a confirmed job offer from a UAE-licensed company (mainland or Free Zone) are eligible for this visa.
2. How long is the employment visa valid for?
Mainland and Free Zone employment visas are generally valid for 2 years.
3. Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes. Once your employment visa and Emirates ID are issued, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents if you meet the income criteria.
4. What is the processing time?
The entire process usually takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on whether it’s a mainland or Free Zone visa.
5. Can I switch jobs on the same visa?
If switching employers, your new sponsor must process a visa transfer. You’ll also need an NOC from your current employer or a formal cancellation letter.
