Employment / Work Visa — Documents Required for Residency Visa in UAE
For expatriates sponsored by a UAE employer for work purposes.
The UAE residency visa allows expatriates to live, work, or study in the country. Requirements and processing times vary by emirate and visa category. Medical fitness is completed inside the UAE at an emirate-specific health authority centre — always verify current requirements with the relevant authority or your sponsor before applying.
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Showing 16 documents for Employment / Work Visa, 4 case-specific documents added.
Document checklist
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Original + clear copy; minimum 6 months validity from date of application
Recent colour photos on white background per ICP specifications (typically 35×45 mm) — confirm current spec with the typing centre
Original UAE entry permit issued by MOHRE, ICP, or the relevant free zone authority
Issued inside the UAE by an approved health authority centre: DHA-approved (Dubai), DOH-approved (Abu Dhabi), or MoHAP-approved (other emirates). Tests include chest X-ray and communicable disease blood tests.
Completed ICP Emirates ID application, typically submitted via an authorised typing centre
UAE-compliant health insurance policy — mandatory for visa issuance in Dubai (DHA) and Abu Dhabi (DOH); confirm requirements for other emirates
Requirements vary by emirate — confirm with the issuing authority before applying
RERA-registered Ejari tenancy contract or proof of employer-provided accommodation
Required for family and self-sponsored visas; confirm with your issuing authority
Original letter from employer on company letterhead stating monthly salary and job title
Required for employment and family sponsorship categories
Clear copy of sponsor's valid passport
Required where a sponsor is involved
Clear copy of sponsor's valid UAE residency visa stamp in passport
Required for family and dependent visas
Clear copy of sponsor's valid Emirates ID (front and back)
Required for family and dependent visas
NOC from employer on company letterhead if required by the visa category
Signed offer letter from UAE employer on company letterhead
Signed MOHRE-standard employment contract (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation)
Copy of the sponsoring company's valid UAE trade licence
Original letter from employer on company letterhead confirming monthly salary and position
How to apply — step by step
- 1
Obtain Entry Permit
Your employer or sponsor applies for a UAE entry permit (residence visa pre-approval) through MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Tip: Free zone companies apply through their own authority portals.
- 2
Enter the UAE on the Entry Permit
Travel to the UAE on the entry permit. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the date of entry.
- 3
Complete the Medical Fitness Test
Undergo a medical fitness examination at an approved health authority centre inside the UAE — DHA-approved centres in Dubai, DOH-approved in Abu Dhabi, MoHAP-approved in other emirates. Tests typically include chest X-ray and blood tests for communicable diseases.
Tip: Bring your original passport and entry permit to the medical centre. Confirm the approved centre list with your sponsor.
- 4
Apply for Emirates ID
Submit biometrics and apply for your Emirates ID at an authorised typing centre or ICP smart service. The Emirates ID is mandatory for all UAE residents.
- 5
Obtain Health Insurance
Arrange valid UAE health insurance. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, health insurance is mandatory for visa issuance — employers typically provide this for work visa holders.
Tip: Confirm health insurance requirements for your emirate before applying.
- 6
Submit Residency Visa Application
Your sponsor or employer submits the full residency visa application with all documents to GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).
- 7
Biometrics and Visa Stamping
Attend the ICP/GDRFA service centre for fingerprinting if required. Once approved, your passport receives the residency visa stamp.
- 8
Collect Emirates ID
Collect your Emirates ID from the post office or service centre once notified. UAE law requires you to carry it on your person at all times.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the UAE residency visa process take?
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks from entry permit issuance to visa stamping, but timelines vary by emirate, visa category, and application completeness. Confirm current processing times with ICP or GDRFA before applying.
Which medical centres are approved for the UAE residency medical test?
Approved centres differ by emirate: DHA-approved centres in Dubai, DOH-approved in Abu Dhabi, and MoHAP-approved in other emirates. Tests typically include a chest X-ray and blood tests for communicable diseases. Bring your passport and entry permit to the appointment.
Can I track my UAE residency visa application status?
Yes. Track your application on the ICP website (icp.gov.ae), the ICP UAE mobile app, or the GDRFA Dubai app (for Dubai-issued visas). You will need your application reference number.
What happens if my UAE residency visa application is rejected?
The authority will advise on the reason. You may be able to rectify missing documents and reapply. Consult a registered typing centre or immigration consultant if needed — requirements and outcomes can vary by emirate.
Is health insurance mandatory for a UAE residency visa?
Health insurance is mandatory for visa issuance in Dubai (DHA requirement) and Abu Dhabi (DOH requirement). Requirements in other emirates may differ — confirm with your sponsor or the issuing authority before applying.
Official source
ICP / GDRFA — official portal ↗Don't want to chase these documents?
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