Dubai is a premier destination for tourists, entrepreneurs, and working professionals alike. Home to big companies in UAE, this dynamic city is an amalgamation of the best of everything the world has to offer. Whether it is culture, technology, or business opportunities, Dubai is the place to be. Its commitment to rapid economic development makes it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and employers. Thousands of foreigners from across the globe are drawn to Dubai for work for obvious economic reasons. If you are shifting to Dubai for work, the first step is obtaining a work permit. All work permits in Dubai are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). Usually, employers apply for this permit, which, upon approval, is converted into a UAE residency visa. Once you have the UAE residence visa, the work permit gives you permission to enter the UAE and work there.
In this article, you will learn about the common mistakes to avoid while applying for work permits in Dubai and tips to avoid them.
Dos and don’ts: Dubai Work Visa
Beginning your life’s new chapter in one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities is exhilarating. Working in Dubai without a valid work visa attracts serious penalties, including deportation. So, all foreigners working or looking to work in Dubai require a work visa.
The process of obtaining work permits in Dubai is complex. Avoiding the mistakes given below will improve your chances of success.
Mistake #1: Not verifying the required documents
A common mistake to avoid is submitting incorrect or incomplete documents. Dubai has strict work visa requirements, and not fulfilling them or submitting incomplete or incorrect documents results in unnecessary delay or, worse, rejection.
To avoid this, carefully review the list of documents needed according to the intended visa type. Before submission, double-check the information and forms filled out. All the documents used must be valid and up to date.
The following paperwork must be in place while applying for a Dubai work visa:
- A valid visa (at least six months validity beyond the expected stay)
- Education certificates as per the job requirements
- Copy of the job offer letter clearly describing the position, terms of employment, and salary
- A medical fitness certificate from designated healthcare centres as prescribed by Dubai authorities
- A certificate of good conduct from your home country
- Passport-size photographs
- A completed visa application form, along with proof of payment of the visa fee, is required. Depending on the company and visa category and your skill level, the Dubai work visa fee can be up to AED 7000.
Mistake #2: Not fulfilling sponsorship requirements
Most work visas usually come with sponsorship requirements. This is especially true while applying for employment or family sponsorship visas. To avoid delays, ensure your sponsor (whether the employer or a family member) fulfills the required criteria laid down by Dubai authorities. The primary proof of sponsorship is a valid employment contract. Some common documents your sponsor, usually the employer, must submit include a registered and valid trade license, establishment card, and an NOC from the Ministry of Labour.
Mistake #3: Not undergoing the needed medical checks
Anyone interested in working in Dubai must undergo health, medical, and fitness tests as the Dubai authorities prescribe. Obtain medical certificates from designated healthcare facilities. Ignoring or delaying the medical checks can further complicate the application process. To avoid this:
- Schedule the medical checks in advance.
- Go through the list of tests and checks needed and go through them as prescribed.
- Submit up-to-date reports with the visa application.
Mistake #4: Not paying attention to visa requirements
Depending on your nature of employment, the work visa category to be applied for varies. The categories range from part-time and fixed-term visas to seasonal work visas and visas for entrepreneurs. Ensure you choose the right category by researching the specific requirements for your visa type. Consult the employer and ensure the required documentation is in place. Pay extra attention to the following requirements.
- A contract of employment with a legally registered and valid Dubai company.
- Proof of accommodation in Dubai, such as a copy of a registered lease agreement.
- Copies of your passport and birth certificate. If applicable, copies of the marriage certificate might be needed, too.
- Proof of financial means to support your stay in Dubai.
Once the required documents are submitted to the concerned authorities, the processing time for a work visa is around 15 working days after submission. For renewal, the time taken can be up to 4 weeks. Keep the applicable processing period in mind while applying to avoid legal problems or deportation.
Mistake #5: Not updating or renewing the Visa
Once you have a work visa, keeping it updated and valid is your responsibility. Failing to renew the work visa on time can attract severe fines and legal troubles, including deportation. To avoid this, do the following:
- Keep track of your visa’s expiration date.
- Ensure timely submission of renewal applications before the current visa expires.
- Update any changes in employment status with relevant authorities.
Mistake #6: Not seeking professional guidance and assistance
The process of applying for a Dubai work visa is complex and doing it yourself leaves room for errors. To ensure compliance with the dos and don’ts in Dubai, UAE, seeking professional guidance and assistance is recommended. They will ensure your visa application fulfills the required criteria and is in tune with any changes in visa regulations. Apart from this, seeking professional guidance or assistance ensures the process is stress and hassle-free.
Conclusion
Applying for a work visa in Dubai can be a daunting task, but you don’t have to go through this alone. for any assistance with consultancy for a Dubai work visa, don’t forget to reach out to the professionals at Emirates Business Setup (EBS). EBS is a leading consultancy in Dubai catering to all your business requirements. Contact our qualified team today and ensure your transition to Dubai is stress-free.
