UAE Work Permits Simplified With 6 Steps for Overseas Hiring

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has outlined the digital procedure employers must follow to secure new work permits when hiring employees from overseas.

The service allows UAE-based establishments to recruit and employ workers from outside the country, subject to the ministry’s approved requirements and procedures. Applications are submitted online and reviewed electronically by MOHRE.

According to official UAE Government information, applications for new overseas work permits are processed within two working days. Federal fees for a two-year work permit range from AED 250 ($68) to AED 3,450 ($939), depending on the applicable classification.

How to Apply for a UAE Work Permit for an Overseas Worker

MOHRE has specified six steps for establishments applying for a new work permit for an employee based outside the UAE.

1. Log in: The applicant accesses the service using a username and password or through UAE PASS.
2. Submit the application: The establishment files the work permit application through one of the designated service channels.
3. MOHRE reviews the application: The application is electronically sent to MOHRE, which verifies whether the required conditions and supporting documents have been met.
4. Address outstanding requirements: If any information or documentation is incomplete, the establishment receives a notification requesting the missing requirements.
5. Work permit approval: Once all conditions and required documents are fulfilled, MOHRE approves the work permit application.
6. Pay fees and attach the work offer: The employer settles the applicable fees and submits the work offer that has been approved by the worker.

MOHRE says the service is intended to help establishments recruit and employ overseas workers while complying with the ministry’s established procedures and requirements.

How long does a UAE overseas work permit take?

Official UAE Government guidance states that a new overseas work permit can be issued within two working days.

The service is specifically aimed at employers and UAE establishments seeking to recruit or employ workers from outside the country.

As a result, the application is handled by the employer or establishment rather than being submitted independently by the overseas worker.

How much does a UAE work permit cost?

Official Government service information sets the federal application fee for work permits at AED 50 ($14) for Categories 1, 2 and 3.

For a two-year work permit, the applicable federal issuance fees are:

• Category 1: AED 250 ($68)
• Category 2: AED 1,200 ($327)
• Category 3: AED 3,450 ($939)

Business centres providing services related to the work permit package can charge a commission of up to AED 72 ($20) per service. This can cover services including printing the job offer, employment contract and work permit application.

Beyond the federal charges, the Government states that the service is available free of charge through the MOHRE website and smart application.

The published fees do not include applicable taxes or collection charges.

UAE Work Permits

The UAE Government states that MOHRE issues 13 different types of work permits to establishments registered with the ministry, depending on the nature and requirements of the employment.

The overseas work permit covered by this service is intended specifically for establishments looking to recruit or employ workers who are currently based outside the UAE.