Work Permit in UAE: If you’re planning to work in the United Arab Emirates, the first legal requirement is obtaining a work permit UAE authorities recognize. Whether you’re entering the country for the first time or switching jobs within the UAE, having a valid work permit UAE is mandatory to begin any employment.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in UAE 2025 Guide
What Is a Work Permit in UAE?
A work permit in UAE is an official authorization issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or relevant free zone authorities. It legally allows a foreign national to work for a registered employer within the UAE.
There are different types of permits depending on:
Full-time employment
Part-time or temporary jobs
Freelancers
Mission/short-term work permits
Who Needs a Work Permit in UAE?
Any foreigner who wants to be legally employed in the UAE must apply for a work permit UAE. This includes:
First-time job seekers
Expats switching jobs within UAE
Workers on visit visas converting to employment
Individuals moving from free zone to mainland jobs
Even freelance professionals are now required to obtain a freelance work permit UAE through registered authorities.
Required Documents to Apply for Work Permit in UAE
For employees:
Valid passport copy (minimum 6-month validity)
Passport-size photograph (white background)
Entry permit (if already inside UAE)
Medical fitness test report
Emirates ID application
Labour contract (signed)
For employers:
Trade license copy
Establishment card copy
Valid e-signature card
Salary certificate and job offer letter (MOHRE-verified)
Each document must be uploaded during the work permit UAE application process on the MOHRE or free zone portal.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in UAE – Step-by-Step (2025)
Step 1: Offer Letter Submission
The employer initiates the work permit in UAE process by submitting a digital offer letter via the MOHRE portal.
The employee receives a text message to review and approve the contract.
Step 2: MOHRE Approval
MOHRE checks the company’s license, quota, and labour record.
Once cleared, the work permit UAE is pre-approved and valid for 60 days.
Step 3: Entry Permit (if applicable)
If the worker is outside UAE, the employer applies for an entry permit.
If inside UAE (tourist/residency visa), a status change request is filed.
Step 4: Medical Fitness Test & Emirates ID
Within 30 days of arrival/status change, the employee undergoes a medical test.
Simultaneously, they apply for their Emirates ID via ICP.
Step 5: Contract Signing and Labour Card Issuance
The final employment contract is uploaded and signed.
A labour card is generated and linked to the work permit UAE.
Step 6: Residency Visa Stamping
The final residency visa is stamped on the passport.
The work permit UAE is now fully active.
The whole process typically takes 7–14 working days, depending on how quickly documents are submitted.
Cost of Work Permit in UAE 2025
Costs vary based on company classification and employee skill level.
| Category | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Application Fees | 250 – 300 |
| Labour Card + Permit | 500 – 3,000 |
| Medical Test | 300 – 400 |
| Emirates ID (2 years) | 370 – 600 |
Total cost of the work permit UAE may range from AED 1,500 to AED 5,000. Most of these expenses are legally paid by the employer.
Common Reasons for Work Permit in UAE Rejection
Incomplete or mismatched documents
Medical test failure (TB, Hepatitis, HIV)
Blacklisted employer or employee
Multiple active applications
Quota exceeded or expired trade license
If your work permit UAE application is rejected, your employer can resubmit after correcting the issue.
FAQs About Work Permit in UAE
Q: Can I start working before getting a work permit UAE?
❌ No. You must wait for approval to legally begin work.
Q: Can a visit visa be converted to a work permit UAE?
✅ Yes, with status change processing and MOHRE approval.
Q: How long is the work permit UAE valid?
📆 Most permits are valid for 2 years, renewable upon contract renewal.
Q: Can I apply for a second job using the same work permit UAE?
❌ You’ll need a part-time work permit or dual employment authorization.
Mahad Manpower UAE Work Permit Assistance
We help workers and employers:
Apply for work permit in UAE with zero delays
Handle MOHRE submissions and document tracking
Arrange medicals, Emirates ID, and visa stamping
Fix rejected or pending applications
Process part-time and freelance permits legally
Whether you’re hiring or job seeking, Mahad Manpower makes work permit UAE approvals fast and stress-free.
Conclusion
Getting a work permit in UAE 2025 is a legal necessity and your first step to a stable job in the Emirates. With proper documentation and employer coordination, the process is straightforward and digital-friendly. Don’t take risks apply correctly and stay protected.