Golden Visa: Change Jobs Without Hassles

Besides Golden Visa, a New Job? Why You Don't Need to Change Your Residential Status in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, an increasing number of foreigners are enjoying the benefits of the Golden Visa, one of the major perks being that their residence is not tied to an employer. This type of long-term residence permit offers excellent opportunities for career flexibility, especially in Dubai, where the job market is continuously expanding.

However, there arises an important question: what happens if a person holding a Golden Visa wants to change jobs? Is a new residence permit or other documentation required? In the following, we detail what to pay attention to in this situation and what administrative steps are necessary.

What is the Golden Visa and how is it related to employment?

The Golden Visa is an independent residence permit valid for 10 years, and it can typically be applied for by investors, entrepreneurs, special talents, scientists, as well as professionals working in certain occupation sectors. Among others, property investment can also qualify someone for this visa.

Since the Golden Visa provides a self-sponsored status, the holder is independent of their employer. However, this does not mean that one can work without a separate permit - a work permit is required, which the new employer submits to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

The legal background: what does the law say?

The relevant legislation, including Article 7 of Federal Law No. 33 of 2021, and Article 6(1)(j) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, clearly stipulates:

"Golden Visa holders can apply for a work permit provided it is submitted by a company registered with the Ministry."

This means that even if we already have a valid residence permit, the new company needs to obtain official authorization before employment can commence.

Why is the Golden Visa advantageous for job changes?

As a Golden Visa holder, one of the biggest advantages is the exemption from certain restrictions that apply to other employees, especially after leaving a job during the probation period.

According to Section 11(3) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022:

"The Ministry may exempt certain employees from the denial of a work permit if the employee holds a Golden Visa."

This can be particularly important for those who wish to change jobs during the probationary period, as in other cases, employees cannot apply for a new permit with another employer during this period.

Required documents for a new work permit

If you wish to take a new job as a Golden Visa holder, the following documents need to be submitted by the new employer through MoHRE, according to Administrative Resolution No. 38 of 2022:

1. Colored passport photo with a white background

2. Passport copy valid for at least 6 months and a copy of the valid Golden Visa

3. Employment contract approved by the Ministry and signed by both parties

4. Certificates of qualifications, depending on which level you belong:

Level 1-2: university degree or higher, certified

Level 3-4: diploma or higher

Level 5: high school certificate – all must be certified by the appropriate authorities

Certificates issued by state authorities are not accepted

5. Professional license, if necessary (e.g., doctor, teacher, lawyer, coach), from the relevant authority

These documents are submitted by the new employer to the competent authority. It's important to note that this procedure does not affect the existing Golden Visa - it remains valid.

What steps are necessary when changing jobs?

The process of changing jobs with a Golden Visa consists of the following steps:

1. Resignation from the current company and withdrawal of the work permit by the employer

2. The new employer submits an application for the new work permit to MoHRE

3. Signing of the employment contract, approved by the Ministry

4. Commencement of work at the new company- following the issuance of the permit

It is important that the Golden Visa is not revoked due to a job change, so the residential status remains unchanged. In contrast, updating the paperwork necessary for the work permit is essential.

Summary

The Golden Visa not only provides long-term residency but also significant flexibility in the labor market. If you wish to change jobs within the UAE, there is no need for a new residence permit - the existing Golden Visa remains in effect. However, a new work permit must be requested by the future employer, which requires several documents.

This system allows high-level professionals and investors to move freely within the labor market without jeopardizing their residential permit.

(The article is based on a statement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).)