Moving to the UAE for work is an exciting opportunity, but getting your legal residency in place is one of the most important steps after joining a company. For employees working in the UAE’s private sector, a company can generally sponsor the employee’s work and residence process, subject to the applicable requirements and approvals.
Here is a simple step by step guide to how the process works.
1. Receive Your Employment Offer
The process generally begins when you receive an official employment offer from a UAE based company. Your employment details, including your position and salary, should be clearly stated in the employment documentation.
2. Obtain the Required Work Permit
Before legally working in the UAE, the employee needs the appropriate work permit. UAE regulations require an employer to obtain the relevant work permit before employing a worker. For employees recruited from outside the UAE, the employer can apply for the relevant work permit and complete the required employment procedures.
3. Apply for the Residence Entry Permit
Once the employment and work permit process is underway, the relevant authority can process the residence entry permit according to the employee’s circumstances. The UAE Government provides different residence and visa categories, including work and residence visas.
4. Complete the Medical Fitness Test
For applicants who are required to complete medical fitness procedures, the necessary medical examination must be completed at an approved centre in the UAE. This is an important part of the residence process and must be completed before the residency can be finalized.
5. Apply for Emirates ID
After completing the required residency procedures, the employee can proceed with the Emirates ID application. The Emirates ID is an essential identification document used for many government and everyday services in the UAE.
6. Receive Your UAE Residence Permit
Once the required approvals and procedures are completed, the employee’s UAE residence permit can be issued. The validity of a residence visa depends on the visa category and sponsor.
Who Handles the Process?
When your residence is being sponsored through your employer, the company generally coordinates the employment related visa and residency procedures. UAE government guidance also states that employers are responsible for processing the employee’s residency permit and related employment processing requirements.
Important Things to Remember
* Make sure your employment documentation is genuine and accurate.
* Do not work without the appropriate work authorization.
* Keep copies of your passport, employment documents and application records.
* Always use official government channels or authorized service providers.
* Visa requirements and procedures can vary depending on your employment situation, nationality and the emirate involved.
Looking for Help With Your UAE Business & Visa Requirements?
Understanding UAE residency, employment procedures and business regulations can be confusing when you’re new to the country. Sparkle Management can assist businesses and entrepreneurs with UAE business setup and related administrative requirements, helping make the process simpler and more organized.
Start your UAE journey with the right guidance.
