Written by Sabir Ali
Founder & CEO, Al Muawin Typing Center
Introduction
Starting a new job in the UAE is an exciting opportunity, but the employment visa process can often feel overwhelming for both employees and employers. With constantly changing regulations, multiple government departments, and strict documentation requirements, it is easy to make costly mistakes.
At Al Muawin Typing Center, we have helped thousands of professionals and companies navigate the UAE employment visa process successfully. Whether you are a company hiring international talent or an employee relocating to Dubai, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step.
In this guide, you will learn:
- The complete employment visa process from start to finish
- Required documents and eligibility criteria
- Processing timelines and costs
- Common mistakes to avoid
- How professional assistance can save you time and money
What is a UAE Employment Visa?
A UAE employment visa (also called a work visa or residency visa) allows foreign nationals to legally work and live in the United Arab Emirates under a sponsoring company or employer. Every employee working in the UAE must have a valid work permit and residency visa approved by the relevant authorities.
Key Points:
- Sponsor Required: Your employer must sponsor your visa
- Validity: Typically 2 years, renewable
- Legal Requirement: Working without a valid employment visa is illegal and can result in fines and deportation
- Family Sponsorship: Once you have an employment visa, you can sponsor family members (subject to salary requirements)
The Complete UAE Employment Visa Process
The employment visa process involves multiple government departments and can take 5-7 days to complete. Here is the detailed breakdown:
Step 1: MOHRE Offer Letter
What happens: The employer applies for an offer letter from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Al Muawin Typing Center will professionally type your offer letter and process all visa-related applications.
Timeline: 1-2 days
Cost:
- AED 280 (Unskilled professions)
- AED 1080 (Skilled professions)
Required Documents:
- Scan Passport Copy
- Photo
- Attested Educational certificates (Required for skilled professions)
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
Important: The work permit quota depends on your company size, nationality mix, and industry. Some nationalities may require additional approvals.
Step 2: Labour Payment
What happens: Labour payment and Laobour insurance is processed to MOHRE.
Timeline: Same day
Cost: Varies by company category
Step 3: Entry Permit Issuance
What happens: For applicants outside the UAE, an entry permit is issued from GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs), allowing legal entry into the country for employment purposes.
Timeline: 1-2 days
Validity: 60 days from issuance
Cost:
- AED 1,125 (inside UAE)
- AED 480 (outside UAE)
For applicants already in UAE: If you are on a visit visa or cancelled visa, you will need to complete a Change Status in the next step.
Important: The entry permit must be used within 60 days, or it expires.
Step 4: Change Status (Only for persons inside UAE)
What happens: If you are already in the UAE on a visit visa or cancelled visa, a change status application is submitted to GDRFA to convert your visa to employment visa.
Timeline: Same day
Cost: AED 675
Note: This step is only for people already inside UAE. Skip this if coming from outside UAE.
Step 5: Medical Fitness Test
What happens: All employment visa applicants must complete a mandatory medical fitness examination at a government-approved medical center in the UAE.
Timeline: 24 hours (results available within 24 hours)
Cost: AED 320
Tests Include:
- Blood test (HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis)
- Chest X-ray (Tuberculosis screening)
- Physical examination
Approved Medical Centers in Dubai:
- Al Muhaisnah Medical Fitness Center
- Al Quoz Mall Medical Fitness Center
- Bur Dubai Medical Fitness Center
- Al Nahda Medical Fitness Center
- Al Yalayis Medical Fitness Center
- Al Rashidiya Medical Fitness Center (Female applicants only)
At Al Muawin Typing Center, we provide:
- Medical fitness application typing within 1 hour.
- Document preparation and verification
- Appointment booking assistance
- Support for all approved medical centers
Problem: Going to a non-approved medical center will result in delays.

Step 6: Emirates ID Application
What happens: An Emirates ID application is submitted along with biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at ICP service center.
Timeline: 3-5 working days after completing biometric and visa process.
Cost: AED 380 (2 years)
Required Documents:
- Entry permit or change status approval
- Medical fitness certificate
- Passport
- Passport-size photograph
Al Muawin Typing Center Services:
- Fast typing service (1-2 hours)
- Biometric appointment booking
- Renewals and replacements


Step 7: Visa Stamping
What happens: The final step is getting your 2-year residence e-visa by GDRFA.
Timeline: 1-2 working days
Cost: AED 550 (2 years)
Required Documents:
- passport
- Emirates ID application receipt
- Medical fitness certificate
- Entry permit or change status approval
Congratulations! You now have a valid UAE employment visa and can legally work and reside in the UAE.
Required Documents Checklist
For Employer:
- Company trade license
- Establishment card
- Manager Emirates ID copy
For Employee:
- Original passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- Educational certificates (degree, diploma) - attested by MOFA UAE
- Previous employment documents (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if sponsoring family) - attested
- Birth certificates of children (if sponsoring family) - attested
Pro Tip: Always get your educational certificates attested in your home country BEFORE arriving in the UAE.
Processing Timeline & Costs Summary
Total Processing Time: 5-7 days (if all documents are ready)
Total Cost Breakdown:
- MOHRE Offer Letter: AED 280
- Labour Payment: Varies
- Entry Permit: AED 480-1,125
- Change Status (if inside UAE): AED 675
- Medical Fitness: AED 320
- Emirates ID: AED 380
- Visa Stamping: AED 550
Estimated Total: Depends on company category
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
Problem: Missing attestations, expired passports, or incorrect information can cause rejections.
Solution: Use Al Muawin Typing Center document verification service before submission.
2. Wrong Medical Center
Problem: Going to a non-approved medical center will result in delays.
Solution: Always use government-approved centers listed above.
3. Expired Entry Permit
Problem: Entry permits expire after 60 days if not used.
Solution: Plan your arrival carefully or apply for extension if needed.
4. Missing Attestations
Problem: Educational certificates must be attested in home country.
Solution: Complete attestation before arriving in UAE.
Why Choose Al Muawin Typing Center?
Our Services Include:
- Complete Visa Processing - End-to-end handling of all steps
- Fast Typing Services - Same-day document preparation
- Medical Fitness Applications - Typed and submitted within 1 hour
- Emirates ID Services - Fast typing (1-2 hours) and appointment booking
- Document Attestation Guidance - Expert advice on attestation requirements
- PRO Services - Professional representation at government departments
- Family Visa Assistance - Help with spouse and children sponsorship
- Visa Renewals & Cancellations - Complete support for all visa changes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does the complete employment visa process take?
A: The complete process takes 5-7 days if all documents are ready and correct.
Q2: Can I work while my employment visa is being processed?
A: No, you cannot legally work until your employment visa is stamped in your passport.
Q3: What happens if my medical test fails?
A: If you fail the medical test for certain conditions, your visa application will be rejected. You may need to return to your home country.
Q4: Can I change employers after getting an employment visa?
A: Yes, but you need your current employer NOC (No Objection Certificate) or you must complete the visa cancellation and new visa process.
Q5: How much salary do I need to sponsor my family?
A: Minimum AED 4,000 per month for most professions, or AED 3,000 + accommodation for certain categories.
Get Started Today
Do not let the visa process stress you out. Let Al Muawin Typing Center handle everything for you.
Processing Time: 5-7 days
Our Service: Professional, Fast, Reliable
Contact Us
- Website: www.almuawin.ae
- WhatsApp: +971 52 780 8293
- Email: almuaawin@gmail.com
- Location: Shop 14, Building K03, Greece Cluster, International City, Dubai
Need Help with Your Visa Application?
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Book NowAbout the Author
Al Muawin Typing CenterProfessional typing and PRO services in Dubai since 2018. Specializing in employment visas, Emirates ID, and medical fitness applications.
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