How to Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE 2025

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: Visiting the UAE on a tourist or visit visa and found a job opportunity? You’re not alone. Thousands of jobseekers in 2025 are asking: How do I convert a visit visa to a work permit in UAE legally? The good news is yes, it’s possible. UAE authorities have made it easier to switch from visit to employment status without exiting the country. However, there are rules, timelines, and procedures you must follow to stay compliant.

This guide explains the exact legal process to convert visit visa to work permit in UAE, who is eligible, how long it takes, what documents are needed, and tips to avoid rejections.

How to Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE 2025

Is It Legal to Convert a Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE?

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: Yes. As of 2025, it is completely legal to convert a visit visa to a work permit from within the UAE without leaving the country. The process is done through ICP (Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship) and MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation). employment visa in uae.

• No need to exit and re-enter
• No ban or penalties (if done properly)
• All done through your new employer’s PRO

Who Is Eligible to Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit?

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: To begin this process, you must meet the following conditions: visa conversion to employment residence

• You are currently inside the UAE on a valid visit visa (not expired)
• You have received a formal job offer from a UAE-based company
• Your employer is ready to sponsor your employment visa
• You pass medical fitness and Emirates ID processing

Step-by-Step: How to Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE (2025)

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: Here is the legal procedure to follow: conversion to employment residence visa

Step 1: Get a Valid Job Offer

You must first receive a written job offer or labor contract from your new employer. It must be:

• On company letterhead

• Include your name, salary, job title

• Signed and stamped by HR or PRO

Step 2: Submit Offer to MOHRE

The employer then applies for a work permit pre-approval using your:

• Passport copy

• Visit visa copy

• Passport photo

• Educational certificates (if needed)

Step 3: Status Change (In-Country Transfer)

Once MOHRE issues the pre-approval, your employer will apply for a status change request through ICP.

This is where your visa transfers from visit to employment without exiting UAE.

🕒 Processing time: 2–5 working days
💰 Fees: AED 500–1,200 (paid by employer)

Step 4: Medical Test + Emirates ID Biometrics

After status change:

• Visit an approved UAE medical center

• Do blood test + X-ray

• Go for Emirates ID biometrics at ICP

Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining.

Step 5: Receive Work Visa & Emirates ID

Once everything is approved:

• You’ll receive a UAE Residence Visa stamped in your passport

• Emirates ID is issued within 7–10 working days

• You are now legally employed and can start work

Required Documents

For the conversion process, you will need:

• Passport (valid for 6+ months)

• Visit visa copy (PDF or stamped page)

• Passport-size photo (white background)

• Job offer letter or contract

• Educational certificates (attested if required)

Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Tips to Avoid Rejection

• Ensure your visit visa is still valid (no overstays)
• Do not work before status change is approved
• Provide accurate info in documents
• Let the employer handle all applications via PRO
• Avoid agents offering shortcuts this is a legal government process

Can I Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in Freezones?

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: Yes most Freezones like JAFZA, DAFZA, DMCC, RAKEZ allow internal status change. However, the process is handled directly by their Freezone Authority, not MOHRE.

Ask your employer if they are a Freezone company, and they will guide you through the zone-specific portal.

Conclusion

Convert Visit Visa to Work Permit in UAE: The UAE continues to support legal employment transitions for visitors. If you’ve received a job offer while visiting, you can convert your visit visa to a work permit in a fully legal, smooth, and affordable way right from inside the country.

Mahad Manpower helps hundreds of candidates through this exact process every month. Don’t risk illegal work apply through the right channels, and let us assist you from interview to visa stamping.