About United Arab Emirates Work Visa
Before we get into the details of the United Arab Emirates Work Visa application process, here are some basic facts about the country.
| Key Fact | Information |
| Capital | Abu Dhabi |
| Currency | Emirati Dirham |
| Language | Arabic |
| Time Zone | Gulf Standard Time |
| Popular Tourist Destinations | Snoopy Island, Al Bidyah mosque, Gardens and Parks |
| United Arab Emirates work Visa Processing Time | 3-5 working days |
United Arab Emirates Work Visa Fee
The fee structure for each type of work visa is outlined below:
| Type of Visa | Fee (in AED) | Fee (in INR) |
| Standard Work Visa | 200 | 4,394 |
| Green Visa | 200 | 4,394 |
| Golden Visa | 200 | 4,394 |
*Visa fee subject to exchange rate fluctuations
Additional charges apply, such as Knowledge dirham (AED 10/INR 220), Innovation dirham (AED 10/INR 220), and internal processing fees if applicable.
United Arab Emirates Work Visa Types
The UAE offers several types of work visas based on your employment status and purpose in the UAE:
| Type of Visa | Description |
| Standard Work Visa | For individuals employed in government or private sectors. Valid for two years. |
| Green Visa | For freelancers or skilled employees, allowing self-sponsorship for five years. |
| Golden Visa | Long-term visa for investors or exceptional talents. It provides various benefits and is valid for 5 or 10 years depending on the eligibility criteria. |
Documents Required for a UAE Work Visa for Indians
Before applying for a United Arab Emirates visa from India, you must gather all the necessary documents. The document requirements can vary based on the type of visa you are applying for. The different types of UAE work visas are as follows:
Standard Work Visa
For regular employment, it is typically valid for two years. Documents required are:
- Personal Photo
- Copy of passport with a minimum of six-month validity period
Green Visa
Based on the type of employment, the documents required are as follows:
For Freelancers and/or Self-employed People
- A freelance or self-employment permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Proof of a bachelor's degree or a specialised diploma.
- Documentation demonstrating an annual income from self-employment of at least AED 360,000 for the past two years, or evidence of financial stability for the duration of their stay in the UAE.
Skilled Employees
To apply for a Green Visa, skilled employees are required to:
- Possess a valid employment contract.
- Be classified within the first, second, or third occupational levels according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Hold at least a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification.
- Earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
Golden Visa
The requirements for the UAE Golden Visa vary based on the applicant's category, such as investor, entrepreneur, or talent.
Investors in Public Investments
- A letter which confirms a deposit of a minimum of AED 2 million.
- Memorandum of association with a commercial licence showing a minimum capital of AED 2 million.
- Proof of annual payment of at least AED 250,000 to the government.
- Moreover, investors must fully own the invested capital. They should have medical insurance for their families, including themselves.
Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors may receive a 5-year renewable Golden Visa without a sponsor if they:
- Provide a letter from the land department confirming ownership of properties. It should be valued at AED 2 million or more.
- Purchase property using a loan from specific local banks. It should be approved by the relevant authorities.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs can qualify for a 5-year Golden Visa if they own a project based on innovation and risk. Required documents include:
- An approval letter from a UAE auditor confirming the project's value is at least AED 500,000.
- Approval from local authorities stating the project is innovative.
Outstanding Specialised Talents
This category includes professionals such as doctors, scientists, and artists. Requirements vary:
- Doctors: Approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
- Scientists: Recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists. It can also be obtained from the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
- Artists: Approval from the relevant cultural department in the emirate.
Outstanding Students
- High school students with a minimum grade of 95%.
- University students with a GPA of at least 3.5 from accredited universities can obtain a 10-year visa, provided they graduated within the last two years.
Humanitarian Pioneers and Frontline Heroes
Individuals recognised for their humanitarian work or those who served on the frontlines during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can also apply for a 10-year Golden Visa with the appropriate recommendations.
How to Apply for a UAE Work Visa?
Applying for a United Arab Emirates work visa involves several steps:
Step 1: Determine the type of work visa suitable for your situation.
Step 2: Collect all the required documents as per the specific United Arab Emirates work visa requirements.
Step 3: Submit your United Arab Emirates work visa application online through:
- eChannels portal
- GDRFA-Dubai website
- ICP App
- Dubai Now app
Step 4: Alternatively, apply offline through typing centres registered by ICP or GDRFA.
Step 5: Pay the applicable United Arab Emirates work visa fee.
Step 6: Track your application status using the provided reference numbers.
How to Track the United Arab Emirates Work Visa Status?
You can check the United Arab Emirates work visa status in the following ways:
For Visas Issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah
- Visit the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
- Navigate to the 'Check Visa' section under 'Public Services'.
- Enter your passport number, application reference number, and passport expiry date.
- Select your nationality and complete the captcha.
- Your visa status, including type and expiry date, will be displayed.
For Dubai Visas
- Visit the official website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFA).
- Look for the 'status of application or file' option on the homepage.
Give the payment date, transaction number and order number.
UAE Work Visa for Indians: FAQs
-
Q: What is the processing time for a UAE work visa?
Ans: The processing for a UAE work visa is about 3-5 working days. -
Q: If my passport is due to expire, can I still apply for a visa?
Ans: Applicants should possess a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. -
Q: How many photos are required for the UAE work visa application?
Ans: You need one passport-sized photo that meets the specific United Arab Emirates work visa photo requirements. -
Q: Is it possible to sponsor my family with a Green or Golden Visa?
Ans: Yes, both Green and Golden Visas allow you to sponsor family members, including spouses and children. -
Q: What are the reasons behind a UAE work visa getting rejected?
Ans: The reason for rejecting a work visa is usually mentioned. However, in some cases, ICP does not disclose the reasons.
Travel Insurance Companies
Aditya Birla
Bajaj General
Care
Cholamandalam MS
Digit
Future Generali
HDFC ERGO
ICICI Lombard
IFFCO Tokio
IndusInd General
National Insurance
New India Assurance
Niva Bupa
Oriental
Royal Sundaram
SBI General
Shriram General
Star
Tata AIG
United India
Universal Sompo
Zurich Kotak



