Hiring a worker from overseas can help UAE businesses access new talent and meet their workforce needs. However, employers must complete the required work permit process before an overseas employee can begin working in the UAE. The country has streamlined this process through its digital services, but employers still need to understand the steps, requirements and costs involved.
So, how does the UAE work permit for overseas workers process work, how long does it take, and what fees should employers expect? This blog explains the process and highlights the key points employers should know before recruiting workers from abroad.
What Is a UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers?
A UAE work permit for overseas workers allows an employer to hire a worker who is currently outside the UAE. The employer applies for the permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and must meet the requirements that apply to the establishment, the proposed position and the foreign worker. The overseas worker does not normally submit the work permit application independently because the process starts with the UAE employer.
How to Apply for a UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers
MOHRE provides a six-step process for employers that want to recruit workers from outside the UAE. The employer first logs into the MOHRE system using a username and password or UAE PASS, where available. The employer then submits the work permit application through an approved service channel and provides the required information and documents. MOHRE reviews the application electronically and checks whether the employer and proposed employment meet the applicable requirements.
If the Ministry finds any missing information or documents, it notifies the employer, who must complete the requirements before the application can proceed. Once the employer satisfies all conditions, MOHRE approves the work permit. The employer then pays the applicable fees and attaches the work offer approved by the worker.
Step 1: Log In to MOHRE
The employer begins the application by accessing the relevant MOHRE service. The employer can use a username and password or UAE PASS, where available, to access the system and start the work permit application.
Step 2: Submit the Application
The employer submits the application through an approved MOHRE service channel. The employer must provide the required information and supporting documents so that MOHRE can review the application.
Step 3: MOHRE Reviews the Application
MOHRE checks the application electronically and verifies whether the employer and proposed employment meet the applicable requirements. The Ministry also reviews the information and documents submitted with the application.
Step 4: Complete Any Missing Requirements
If MOHRE finds missing documents or information, it notifies the employer. The employer must provide the required documents or make the necessary corrections before the application can move forward.
Step 5: Receive Work Permit Approval
Once the employer meets all the required conditions, MOHRE approves the work permit application. The employer can then complete the final steps of the process.
Step 6: Pay the Fees and Submit the Approved Work Offer
The employer pays the applicable government fees and attaches the work offer approved by the worker. After completing the required formalities, the employer can proceed with the issuance of the overseas work permit.
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How Long Does a UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers Take?
The UAE Government lists two working days as the processing time for a new overseas work permit. This timeframe applies when the employer submits a complete application and meets all the required conditions. The process may take longer if MOHRE requests additional documents, corrections or other information.
Employers should also remember that work permit processing is only one part of the overall immigration process, and the worker may need to complete additional entry, medical, identification or residency procedures before starting employment in the UAE.
How Much Does a UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers Cost?
The UAE work permit fees depend on the employer's category. The federal application fee is AED 50 for Categories 1, 2 and 3. For a two-year work permit, the federal issuance fee is AED 250 for Category 1, AED 1,200 for Category 2 and AED 3,450 for Category 3. The highest listed federal fee is AED 3,450, which is approximately US$939 based on the exchange rate provided in the source information. Employers should check the current government fee schedule before applying because fees and requirements may change.
Employer Category
Two-Year Work Permit Fee
Category 1 - AED 250
Category 2 - AED 1,200
Category 3 - AED 3,450
Are There Additional UAE Work Permit Charges?
Employers may incur additional charges if they use a business centre to complete the application. The commission charged by business centres is capped at AED 72 per service and may cover services such as printing the job offer, employment contract and work permit application. Employers who use the MOHRE website or smart app do not pay an additional service charge beyond the applicable federal fees. Taxes and collection charges may apply separately, so employers should consider these costs when estimating the total expense of recruiting an overseas worker.
Who Can Apply for a UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers?
A MOHRE-registered establishment can apply for a UAE work permit for overseas workers when it wants to recruit a worker who is outside the UAE. The employer must meet the applicable requirements before MOHRE can approve the application. The process is therefore employer-led, and the overseas worker does not normally apply for the work permit independently. Employers should also confirm that the proposed position and employment arrangement meet the relevant UAE labour and immigration requirements before starting the application.
Is a UAE Work Permit the Same as a UAE Work Visa?
A UAE work permit and a UAE work visa are not the same thing. The work permit allows an employer to employ a foreign worker under the applicable UAE labour rules, while the worker may need to complete separate immigration and residency procedures to enter and live in the UAE for employment. Employers should therefore consider the work permit as one part of the wider employment immigration process rather than treating it as the worker's complete visa and residency authorization.
How Many Types of Work Permits Does MOHRE Issue?
The UAE Government states that MOHRE issues 13 types of work permits to establishments registered with the Ministry. The appropriate permit depends on the nature of the employment and the circumstances of the worker and employer. The overseas work permit applies specifically to establishments that want to recruit or employ a worker who is outside the UAE.
What Should Employers Know Before Hiring Overseas Workers?
Employers should prepare carefully before submitting an application. They should confirm that the establishment meets MOHRE requirements, identify the correct work permit category and prepare all required documents in advance. Employers should also make sure that the employment offer contains accurate information and that they pay the correct government fees. If MOHRE requests additional documents or corrections, the employer should respond promptly to avoid unnecessary delays. Employers should also plan for the immigration and residency steps that may follow the work permit process, as these procedures can affect the worker's overall timeline for joining the UAE employer.
Frequently Asked Questions About UAE Work Permit for Overseas Workers
How quickly can an overseas worker get a UAE work permit?
MOHRE lists two working days as the processing time for a new overseas work permit when the employer submits a complete application and meets all applicable requirements. Additional requests from MOHRE can extend the processing time.
Can a UAE employer hire someone who is still outside the country?
Yes. The UAE work permit for overseas workers is specifically intended for UAE establishments that want to recruit workers who are outside the UAE.
How much does a UAE overseas work permit cost?
The federal fee for a two-year overseas work permit ranges from AED 250 to AED 3,450, depending on the employer's category. Employers must also pay the AED 50 application fee, along with any applicable taxes, collection charges or business-centre service fees.
Who applies for the UAE overseas work permit?
The UAE employer or MOHRE-registered establishment submits the application. The overseas worker does not normally submit the work permit application independently.
Can the UAE work permit process take longer than two working days?
Yes. Two working days is the stated processing time when the application meets the required conditions. Missing documents, incorrect information or additional requirements can delay the application.
Does a UAE work permit provide permanent residence?
No. A work permit does not provide permanent residence in the UAE. The worker must complete the applicable immigration and residency procedures connected with employment.
Are UAE work permit fees the same for all employers?
No. The two-year work permit fee varies according to the employer's category. Category 1 employers pay AED 250, Category 2 employers pay AED 1,200 and Category 3 employers pay AED 3,450, in addition to the applicable application fee.
Key Takeaway
The UAE has streamlined the process for employers recruiting workers from overseas. With the right documents and approvals in place, the UAE work permit for overseas workers process can be completed efficiently. Employers should also plan for the immigration and residency steps that follow.