Every aspiring entrepreneur wants to work in an environment that gives them freedom- the freedom to experiment, make decisions, and expand their business. This is why entrepreneurs choose the United Arab Emirates over other countries. As we all know, the United Arab Emirates is one of the finest countries in the world for business purposes. The prime location and ease of business set them apart from other countries.
However, before starting a business journey in the UAE, entrepreneurs must secure the right visas according to their business activity. The country offers multiple visa services to entrepreneurs and expats. The diverse visa range provided by the authorities helps foreign nationals to grow their business at their own pace.
This extensive guide offers every detail you need to know to avail of work visas in the UAE.
What are UAE work visas?
A UAE working visa is simply a permit that allows foreign nationals to work within the country and take advantage of offered benefits. The work visa is essential for any individual seeking to work in the country as it is proof of their work and residency. The United Arab Emirates offers various types of visas, and the Standard work visa, Golden visa, and Green visa are common.
Why Opt for the UAE as a Workplace?
Opting for UAE as your workplace is a smart move. There are many reasons behind this statement. Whether you are seeking a job or establishing a business, the rapidly growing economy of the UAE is heaven for every individual. Furthermore, the UAE's rich culture, high living standard, and tax-free income rules make it the perfect location for expats. Job seekers must obtain a work visa sponsored by the company.
Types of Employment Visas in the UAE
UAE offers several working visas that are different from each other. Here are the details of a few of the most popular working visas in the UAE.
- Standard Work Visa: The standard work visa is the most popular in the UAE. Business owners sponsor this visa for their employees. It is temporary but can be renewed after 2 years. An important part of this document is that it prohibits workers from working for other companies, as it ties them to the sponsoring employer.
- Green Visa: The Green Visa, which was introduced in 2022, provides greater freedom than the ordinary visa. This legal document is intended for freelancers, international investors, and enterprises. The main benefit of this visa is that it provides a 5-year work permit in the UAE with no requirement for local sponsorship or an employer. Furthermore, it offers greater working freedom and residence leverage, making it an essential alternative for businesses and professionals.
- Golden Visa: The Golden Visa is one of the popular work visas in the UAE. This legal document offers long-term working and residential permissions that can be granted for 10 years. The good part of this visa is that it doesn’t require any local sponsorship. As the visa name hints, this is typically designed for high-net-worth individuals and experienced business professionals. The criteria for the golden visa are as follows: the applicants should be worth 2 million Dirhams. Entrepreneurs with AED 500k projects in hand and real estate investors with properties valued at 2 million AED can avail themselves of the golden benefits under this visa. It does not require periodic renewal and provides long-term residency security to these individuals.
- Investor Visa: This is designed for people who want to invest in a company or start one in the United Arab Emirates. To avail of this special visa, an investor should own a 51% stake in the company. Apart from this, they should have invested a substantial amount as per the market requirements. This visa is issued for 2 to 3 years and is renewable.
- Freelance Visa: A Freelance visa attracts new talent to the UAE. This visa is designed for an independent individual who doesn’t want to work for a particular company. Freelancers are just required to register with a UAE-based company and start providing their services to companies within the UAE. One can avail of a freelancer visa from free zone authorities, typically for one to three years.
Key Requirements for Working Visas
- Valid passport (valid for at least six months)
- Required documents include passport-sized photographs and an entry permit from the Ministry of Labor.
- Signed contract of employment.
- Clearance from medical screening.
- Health Insurance.
Terms and Conditions for Working Visas
- Employees must be above 18 years old.
- Sponsoring employers must have a valid trade license, and job roles must align with corporate activity.
- Work just for the sponsored employer.
The UAE does everything to attract entrepreneurs from around the world. Countries dedicated visa options opened a broader way for workers and entrepreneurs to thrive in a highly competitive business market.
If you are also an entrepreneur or seeking to work in a multinational company in the United Arab Emirates, then look no further than Markai Corporate Services.
We help you to obtain a UAE work visa as per your requirements and streamline the complexities coming to your business journey. Whether you are new to the business or seeking a visa renewal, we are here to help with everything you need.
