Work in the United Arab Emirates: what visas are offered for foreigners

Every year, the UAE attracts many people from all over the world looking for favorable working conditions. This country is known for its favorable employment opportunities, safety, and favorable climate.

The UAE offers five types of work visas, which can be obtained from the General Directorate of Foreign Affairs (GDRFA). And the immigration authority that issues visas is the federal one, writes GulfNews reports..

A company work visa can be obtained if you have been offered a job in the UAE. It can be valid for two or three years, after which it must be renewed by your sponsor. After you accept and sign the job offer letter, the company will issue an entry permit that will allow you to travel to the UAE.

The visa application process is provided by your employer and involves passing a medical test, providing biometric fingerprints for a UAE ID card, and obtaining a residence permit and UAE ID card. The employer is also obliged to apply for a residence permit for the employee and cover the costs associated with the employment and visa.

A green visa is a five-year residence permit in the UAE that does not require a sponsor. Skilled workers, freelancers and investors can apply for it, but only if they meet certain requirements.

To apply for a green visa, skilled workers must meet four conditions:

1. Have a valid employment contract

2. Be classified in the first, second or third professional level according to the Ministry of Human Resources.

3. Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent.

4. Have a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.

Self-employed individuals or freelancers can only apply for a green visa if they meet these three requirements:

1. A freelancer's permit from MOHRE.

2. Proof of a bachelor's degree or specialized diploma

3. Proof of income - at least AED 360,000 or the equivalent in another currency for the last two years.

The Gold Visa allows expats to live, work and study in the UAE for a period of 10 years. Individuals such as doctors and nurses, outstanding college students and graduates, investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and humanitarian workers are eligible for the visa. Gold visa holders can sponsor their family members, including spouses, children, and support staff, without any restrictions, and the visa can be renewed if you meet the necessary conditions for this. In addition, there is no limit to the maximum length of stay outside the UAE.

If you don't meet the requirements for a green visa, you can apply for a standard freelancer visa, which is valid for two years. To become a freelancer in the UAE, you will need a freelance work permit and a freelancer visa.

And finally, another visa in the UAE is the Domestic Worker Visa. It is issued by the visa office for domestic helpers and it is sponsored by the employer. UAE residents cannot hire a domestic worker unless he or she has a valid domestic worker license.

Earlier, TravelWise reported on the most interesting places to see in Dubai.