It is the dream of many people to go to UAE. The most important thing is that there is no tax in this country, the rights of employees are protected and the economy is growing rapidly. People especially from South Asia, Middle East and Africa want to work there in large numbers. But if you are already in UAE on a visit visa or are going to come soon, can you stay there and work?
You can convert your visit visa to a work visa while staying in the UAE. But there is a set procedure for this, which is important to understand so that you do not break the rules and do not face any problems.
What is the difference between a visit visa and a work visa?
1. Visit Visa:
This visa is for travelling, meeting relatives or attending events. Usually given for 30, 60 or 90 days. Working on this visa is prohibited by law, and doing so can result in fines or deportation.
2. Work (Employment) Visa:
This visa is available when you get a job from a UAE company and with this you can live and work there for two years. Now the government has also started a job seeker visa, with which you can search for a job for 60 to 120 days without any sponsor.
Who can get a work visa in UAE?
The basic conditions are:
You must be 18 years of age or older
Your qualification must be at one of the following levels:
- Category 1: Bachelor degree or above
- Category 2: Post-secondary diploma
- Category 3: High School Diploma
Other important things:
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
- Must have a job offer from a company registered in the UAE
- must pass a medical test
- The company will provide you basic health insurance
- The job title must match the company’s license
How to convert a visit visa to a work visa while in the UAE?
If you have found a job, you can change your visa while you are in the country. This is called an in-country status change. The process is as follows:
- Confirm a job offer
- The company will have to get quota approval
- You and the company will sign a labor contract together
- The company will apply for an Employment Entry Permit for you
- You will need to undergo a medical test
- Then apply for Emirates ID and residence visa
- Your work visa will be activated once you receive visa approval.
No more visa stamping on your passport – your Emirates ID is sufficient.
In how many days this process is completed?
- It usually takes 7 to 14 working days. But delays may occur:
- Due to holidays or festivals (like Eid, Ramzan)
- Irregularities in company quota or documents
- Delay in government offices or typing centers
What if you haven’t got a job yet?
You can apply for a Job Seeker Visa. This allows you to stay in the UAE without a sponsor for 60, 90 or 120 days and look for a job.
Terms:
- You have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Proof of bank balance or financial status will have to be provided
