UAE Employment Visa: process, cost and timeline
The standard route
The employment visa is the common 2-year, employer-sponsored UAE residency. Your employer initiates it; you provide documents and complete the in-country steps. Most complete files are processed within about 2 weeks.
The process, step by step
- Work permit & entry permit issued (employer side)
- Enter the UAE (or status change if already inside)
- Medical fitness test (blood test + chest X-ray)
- Emirates ID biometrics appointment
- Visa stamping / digital residency issued
What it costs
Government fees are indicative at roughly AED 1,800 for a standard file; typing-centre or PRO service fees come on top and vary by centre (commonly from around AED 1,050). Your employer covers recruitment-related costs by law — do not accept demands to pay for your own work permit.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the UAE work visa take?
Around 2 weeks for a complete standard file; missing or mismatched documents are the main cause of delays.
What documents do I need?
Passport (6+ months validity), passport photo on white background, salary certificate or offer letter, and — for skilled roles — an attested degree.
Can I track the application myself?
Yes. StayBuddy builds your document file, checks each scan with AI and tracks every deadline until your Emirates ID is issued.