A Dubai work visa is a legal document that permits foreigners to live and work in Dubai. It is typically issued for a period of two years and requires sponsorship from a UAE-based employer.
There are primarily two categories of work visas for Dubai:
Applying for a Dubai work visa from Pakistan involves several steps, which are detailed below:
The first step is to secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer. The employer will act as the sponsor and initiate the visa application process.
Once you have a job offer, the employer will handle the following:
After arriving in Dubai with the entry permit, the employee must complete the following steps:
The following documents are typically required for a Dubai work visa application:
The costs associated with obtaining a Dubai work visa vary depending on several factors, such as the job position, employer, and type of work visa. Here are the typical costs:
Employer's Costs
| Category | Visa fee |
|---|---|
| Initial Approval and Work Permit Fees: | AED 300 - AED 5000 (approximately PKR 13,000 - PKR 220,000), depending on the job category and skill level. |
| Entry Permit Fees: | AED 500 - AED 1000 (approximately PKR 22,000 - PKR 44,000). |
| Medical Examination Fees: | AED 300 - AED 500 (approximately PKR 13,000 - PKR 22,000). |
| Emirates ID Fees: | AED 100 - AED 200 (approximately PKR 4,400 - PKR 8,800). |
| Residence Visa Stamping Fees: | AED 300 - AED 500 (approximately PKR 13,000 - PKR 22,000). |
| Labor Card Fees: | AED 200 - AED 500 (approximately PKR 8,800 - PKR 22,000). |
To obtain a Dubai work visa from Pakistan, secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer, who will then handle the visa application process, including obtaining initial approval, a work permit, and an entry permit. After arriving in Dubai, you must undergo a medical examination, apply for an Emirates ID, and get your residence visa stamped.
The processing time for a Dubai work visa can vary but generally takes between 2 to 4 weeks from the submission of the complete application and necessary documents.
The costs include initial approval and work permit fees (AED 300 - AED 5000), entry permit fees (AED 500 - AED 1000), medical examination fees (AED 300 - AED 500), Emirates ID fees (AED 100 - AED 200), residence visa stamping fees (AED 300 - AED 500), and labor card fees (AED 200 - AED 500).
Yes, you can change jobs with a Dubai work visa, but you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer and transfer your visa to the new employer.
Yes, a medical examination is mandatory for a Dubai work visa. The examination typically includes tests for infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.
A Dubai work visa is typically valid for two years. It can be renewed upon expiration, subject to the terms of your employment contract and sponsorship.
Yes, you can sponsor your family to accompany you to Dubai on a work visa. You will need to meet the minimum salary requirement and provide proof of accommodation and financial stability.
To renew your Dubai work visa, your employer must submit a renewal application to the MOHRE before the current visa expires. The renewal process involves a medical examination, Emirates ID renewal, and residence visa stamping.
If your Dubai work visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision by providing additional supporting documents or addressing any issues raised by the authorities. Your employer may also assist in resolving the matter.
No, a job offer from a UAE-based employer is required to apply for a Dubai work visa. The employer acts as your sponsor and initiates the visa application process on your behalf.
Obtaining a Dubai work visa from Pakistan involves a systematic process that requires securing a job offer, completing the necessary documentation, and undergoing medical examinations. By understanding the application steps, required documents, and associated costs, Pakistani citizens can navigate the visa process with ease. With Dubai's dynamic job market and vast opportunities, securing a work visa can be the first step towards a successful career in this thriving city.