How to Legally Work in the UAE

Converting a UAE Visitor Visa into a Work Permit: What You Need to Know if You Receive a Job Offer on a Tourist Visa

Many people arrive in the United Arab Emirates on a visitor visa with the intention of finding work. But what happens when you receive a job offer? Can you start working immediately, or do you need to wait? The answer is clear: you cannot work until you have a valid work permit and a residency visa. Below, we outline the regulations, steps to follow, and potential consequences.

Legal Background of Visitor Visa and Employment

According to the UAE's labor regulations, it's prohibited to work without a valid work permit. This is clearly stated in the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, Article 6(1):

"In order to work or employ a worker in the territory of the United Arab Emirates, a valid work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is required."

Furthermore, Federal Law No. 29 of 2021 concerning the entry and residency of foreigners also states:

"A foreign individual cannot perform work or activities without a permit issued as per the prevailing laws of the country."

What Types of Work Permits are Available?

MoHRE issues various types of work permits depending on the nature of the employment:

- Full-time permit

- Part-time permit

- Temporary work permit

- Freelancer permit

These permits are applied for by the employer on behalf of the employee.

What if You Start Working Without a Permit?

If someone starts working without a permit, severe penalties may apply—not only for the worker but also for the employer. According to amendments of the Federal Law No. 9 of 2024, the employer may face fines up to 1 million dirhams for hiring someone without a permit.

"Employers hiring workers without a work permit can be fined between 100,000 and 1 million dirhams."

Steps for Changing Visitor Visa Status: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Accepting the Job Offer

The employer provides a formal offer based on which the administrative process can start.

2. Application for a Work Permit at MoHRE

The employer submits the application for the work permit. Subsequently, the entry and residency visa process is permitted.

3. Applying for an Entry Permit

This document allows you to officially change your status to a residency visa.

4. Medical Examination and Health Insurance

All employees must undergo a medical examination and obtain health insurance.

5. Issuance of a Residency Visa

After successful clearance, the immigration authority issues a residency visa, typically valid for two years.

6. Application for an Emirates ID

After receiving the residency visa, applying for an Emirates ID (identity card) is mandatory.

7. Begin Work

You can officially start working in the UAE only after completing these steps.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to start work immediately after receiving a job offer, UAE law strictly prohibits this while on a visitor visa. The employer must begin the process for the work permit and residency visa before a new employee can start working. This is not only a legal requirement but also a condition of employment—deviating from this can lead to serious financial and legal consequences.

If you receive a job offer on a visitor visa, do not commence work until the permits are issued—rather, collaborate with your future employer to ensure all official steps are completed correctly and on time.

(Source of the article: Based on the regulations of the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MoHRE).)