For professionals moving to the United Arab Emirates, obtaining an employment visa is the most important step in starting a career. The process is structured, ensuring legal compliance and worker protection under UAE law. In 2025, the employment visa process has become more streamlined through digital services, but it still requires completing specific steps. Nera News explains the entire procedure from job offer to Emirates ID.

UAE Employment Visa Processing Explained

The UAE employment visa process involves multiple stages overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for mainland companies or the relevant free zone authorities. Below is the complete breakdown.

UAE Offer Letter and Job Contract

• The process begins when the employer issues an offer letter approved by MOHRE or a free zone authority.
• The candidate must review and sign the contract before any further steps.

Work Permit and Entry Permit

• The employer applies for an entry permit which serves as a temporary work visa.
• The entry permit is valid for 60 days and allows the candidate to enter the UAE for employment.

Entry to UAE or Status Change

• If the candidate is outside the UAE, they can enter with the entry permit.
• If already inside the UAE, the visa status can be changed without leaving the country.

UAE Medical Fitness Test

• All applicants must undergo a medical examination at approved UAE health centers.
• The test includes a blood test and chest X-ray to ensure fitness for employment.

Emirates ID Biometrics

• Applicants provide fingerprints and biometric data at an ICP (Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) service center.
• This step is necessary for issuing the Emirates ID card.

Labor Contract Registration

• The employment contract is officially registered with MOHRE or the respective free zone authority.
• A labor card or work permit is issued, generally valid for 2–3 years depending on the employer’s location and category.

UAE Job Health Insurance

• Employers must provide mandatory health insurance for employees, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• This is a legal requirement for processing the visa.

Residence Visa Stamping

• Once all formalities are completed, the residence visa is stamped in the employee’s passport.
• The validity is usually 2–3 years, based on company type and authority rules.

Emirates ID Issuance

• After visa stamping, the final Emirates ID card is printed and delivered.
• The Emirates ID serves as the official identification document in the UAE.

Processing Timeline

The UAE has streamlined visa procedures, but timelines vary between mainland companies and free zones.

• Entry permit: 1–3 working days
• Medical test and biometrics: 2–4 working days
• Visa stamping and Emirates ID issuance: 3–5 working days
• Overall process: 2–4 weeks on average

Why This Matters for Workers in 2025

The UAE employment visa is not just a work permit but also a residency visa, giving expatriates legal rights to live and work in the country. With mandatory health insurance, labor protections, and digital ID systems, the process ensures a secure and efficient entry into the UAE workforce.

The updated system reflects the UAE’s efforts to remain a global hub for skilled professionals while maintaining strict labor compliance.