Question 1

Sponsored/Work Visa

Accepted Answer

Foreign workers in Dubai must hold a residence visa and a work permit (also known as a labour card). Here are the steps for this process:

Your employer applies for approval from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to hire a foreign employee, i.e. you.
The Ministry issues an entry permit visa, which will allow you to enter the UAE for up to 60 days, during which time you need to obtain a residence visa.
You travel to Dubai and have 60 days to obtain a residence visa.
Upon arrival, your employer applies for a work permit — also known as a labour card.
You visit an Emirates ID service centre with your valid passport and entry visa/permit to obtain your ID.
You complete a medical examination at a government hospital.
Apply for your residence visa through the immigration authorities.
Submit all required documents including a personal photo and a passport copy with at least a six-month validity period to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs.

Note that if you’re a foreign-born worker already resident in Dubai, you will need to either cancel your existing visa or get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer. Submit these documents along with your passport and Emirates ID to your new employer, who can use those to issue a sponsored work visa.

Question 2

Green Visa

Accepted Answer

This five-year visa is for foreign investors establishing or participating in commercial activities in the UAE. To qualify for this visa as an entrepreneur, you must invest a minimum of AED 500,000 (approx. US$136,129) in your business, Alternatively, you can be a start-up owner with the approval of an accredited business incubator in the UAE. Find out more about residency visas for investors and entrepreneurs.

Question 3

Remote Work Programme Visa

Accepted Answer

Created for remote workers, this one-year visa under the remote work programme provides access to Dubai’s telecoms, utilities, and schooling services, as well as a global hub and a skilled workforce composed of 200+ nationalities. To qualify, you need to provide proof of work/employment outside the UAE and that the work is conducted remotely. Find out more about working remotely from Dubai.

Question 4

Golden Residence Visa

Accepted Answer

Recently the UAE Government introduced the ten-year Golden Residence Visa category for investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists and professionals, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes. Click here for more information on the criteria for each category.

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