4 Types of Residency Visas That Allow Expats To Work in Dubai

Dubai, a vibrant hub for global business and innovation, attracts talented individuals from across the globe seeking exciting career opportunities. If you’re an expat considering a move to Dubai for work, securing the right visa is crucial. 

This blog post, brought to you by Khidmath Corporate Services in Dubai, will guide you through the types of residency visas that allow expats to work in the emirate, making your transition smooth and stress-free.

We understand that navigating visa processes can be complex, and choosing the appropriate visa depends on your specific employment situation. 

By providing an overview of the different visa options available, we aim to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your visa journey in Dubai.

Below mentioned are residency visas that allow expats to work in Dubai

Green Visa for Work

The Green Visa is a recently introduced, five-year residency visa option designed to attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to Dubai. This visa offers several advantages, including:

• Self-sponsorship: Unlike traditional work visas, the Green Visa allows individuals to sponsor themselves for residency, eliminating the need for an employer sponsor.
• Long-term validity: The five-year validity period provides stability and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your career and personal life in Dubai.
• Multiple entry permit: The visa grants a six-month multiple entry permit, enabling you to travel freely in and out of the UAE during the visa application process.

Who can apply for a Green Visa?

The Green Visa caters to two primary categories of expats:

1. Freelancers and/or self-employed people:

• Possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• Demonstrate an annual income of at least AED 360,000 (approximately USD 98,000) over the past two years, or provide proof of sufficient financial resources.
• Obtain a freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

2. Skilled employees:

• Meet the specific educational and experience requirements set by the Dubai government for their chosen profession.
• Secure a job offer with a minimum salary of AED 5,000 (approximately USD 1,360) per month.

Standard Work Visa

The Standard Work Visa is the most common type of employment visa in Dubai. This visa is typically sponsored by your employer and is valid for two to three years, with the option for renewal.

Here are the two main categories of the Standard Work Visa:

1. Employed in the private sector:

• This visa is sponsored by your private sector employer in Dubai.
• The required documents and application process will be handled by your employer.

2. Employed in the government sector or a free zone:

• This visa is applicable if you are employed by a government entity or a company operating within a free zone in Dubai.
• Similar to the private sector, your employer will handle the application process and required documents.

Things to remember:

• As an employee on a Standard Work Visa, you cannot change jobs without your employer’s consent and their involvement in the visa transfer process.
• The validity period of your visa is usually linked to your employment contract.

Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is a ten-year residency visa scheme targeting high-net-worth individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs. This visa offers several benefits, including:

• Long-term residency: Enjoy extended residency in Dubai for ten years, with the option for renewal.
• Multiple entry and exit: Travel freely in and out of the UAE throughout the visa validity period.
• Sponsor family members: Extend residency benefits to your spouse and children.

Golden Visa requirements

Meeting one of the following criteria makes you eligible to apply for the Golden Visa:

• Investors: Invest a minimum of AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000) in property in Dubai.
• Entrepreneurs: Establish a business in the UAE with a minimum paid-up capital of AED 3 million (approximately USD 816,000).
• Highly skilled professionals: Be employed in a high-demand profession and meet specific salary requirements set by the Dubai government.

Important note: The Golden Visa requirements are subject to change, so consulting with a qualified immigration specialist like Khidmath Corporate Services in Dubai is crucial for the latest information and personalized guidance.

Domestic Worker Visa

The Domestic Worker Visa is designed for individuals employed to provide domestic assistance within a household, such as house cleaning, cooking, and childcare. This visa is sponsored by the employer, typically a UAE resident or citizen.

Key points to remember for Domestic Worker Visas:

• Sponsorship: The employer bears the responsibility for sponsoring the domestic worker’s visa and meeting specific salary requirements set by the UAE government.
• Contractual obligations: A clear employment contract outlining the worker’s duties, salary, and other benefits is mandatory.
• Worker entitlements: Domestic workers in the UAE are entitled to specific rights and protections as outlined by the UAE’s labor laws, including rest periods, annual leave, and access to healthcare.

Conclusion

Understanding the various types of residency visas available in Dubai empowers you to make informed decisions about your employment journey in this dynamic emirate. Whether you’re a skilled professional seeking long-term residency through the Green Visa, an entrepreneur attracted to the benefits of the Golden Visa, or seeking assistance with navigating the complexities of a Standard Work Visa, seeking professional guidance can streamline the process and ensure a smooth transition.

Khidmath Corporate Services in Dubai is your trusted partner for navigating the intricacies of visa applications and corporate services. We offer comprehensive support for Green Visa applications, company formation, and other business setup requirements in Dubai. Contact us today to explore how our expertise can empower your success in Dubai.