Hiring remote employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a great way to tap into local talent. However, employees must have the right work visa or permit when engaging in remote work in any country abroad, including the UAE.
Without a strong understanding of immigration laws and employment practices, this can be legally risky for your company. For instance, while some countries allow workers to engage in freelance work on a tourist visa, this isn’t usually allowed in the UAE.
Why is Immigration Compliance Important in the UAE?
Without work authorization and proper documentation, employers may face hefty fines, penalties, and potential legal disputes with labor authorities. Government authorities are increasingly strict about granting short-term visas, so it’s essential to stay informed about changing immigration laws.
Whether you’re looking for a temporary visa for a team member or want to hire an employee long-term, always consult a professional to understand your options. Working with a global HR partner like Remote, with global employment experience and local-level knowledge of Emirati regulations, can ensure smooth employment or relocation processes.
Who Needs a Work Authorization Check in the UAE?
All foreigners (non-Emiratis) over the age of 18 can work in the UAE if they meet the criteria set out by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). It’s illegal to work on a tourist or visitor visa in the UAE. Individuals found working without the correct documents may face fines, legal persecution, or deportation.
Partnering with an employer of record like Remote can simplify the UAE work permit process. Our global employment services can help you perform work authorization checks and secure the correct work permit for employees in the UAE or around the world.
Do Non-Citizens Need a Work Visa or Work Permit in the UAE?
Non-citizens must obtain a residency visa and work permit to work in the UAE. The employer is responsible for securing these documents. If either party works without the correct documentation, it can lead to serious penalties for both.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Work Visa in the UAE?
To get a valid UAE work visa, an employee must have a confirmed job offer from a legally established business within Dubai. The employer can then apply for an entry permit and residence visa on the employee’s behalf at the MoHRE.
Before the employee visits the UAE, ensure they have a passport valid for at least six months. They must take medical exams at certified health centers, testing for communicable diseases like HIV or TB. Academic certifications from outside the UAE must be verified by the relevant embassy or consulate and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Long-Stay Visa Types in the UAE
- 5-Year Green Visa: For skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors. Benefits include:
- No need for an employer or sponsor
- Visa sponsorship for family members
- Extended grace period up to six months post visa expiry
- Sons can stay until their 25th birthday; daughters can stay until marriage
- Golden Visa: Long-term residence visa for living, working, or studying in the UAE. Benefits include:
- Six-month entry permit with recurrent admissions
- Renewable residence permit valid for five or ten years
- Sponsorship for family members and unlimited domestic helpers
- Dependents can stay until the permit duration ends, even if the primary visa holder dies
How to Obtain a Work Visa for the UAE
To obtain a work visa, applicants must submit:
- A passport and its copy, and passport photos
- An Emirates ID card and entry permit from the Ministry of Labor
- Medical screening results
- Proof of employment from the employer, such as a company card and commercial license
- An employment agreement or job offer from a UAE business
- Visa application form
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in the UAE
The Dubai Virtual Work Residency Visa allows digital nomads to work remotely in Dubai for up to one year, renewable if requirements are met. To apply, you’ll need:
- To be a remote employee working for a foreign company
- An income of over USD 5,000 per month
- A copy of your employment contract
Why Use an Employer of Record to Hire in the UAE?
To hire or relocate a team member in the UAE, you’ll need to establish your own entity in the country. This involves setting up a legal presence and managing processes to pay and comply with local employment laws. Working with an EOR can simplify international hiring and employee relocation by managing onboarding, payroll, taxes, benefits, immigration, and compliance.
Navigating Work Permits and Visas in the UAE with Baaraku
Navigating global payroll, benefits, immigration, and compliance can be tricky for businesses with global employees. When hiring from the UAE, both employer and employee must remain compliant with local rules to avoid penalties. Understanding visa requirements and getting them right for remote workers is challenging, but with Baaraku, you can confidently hire employees in the UAE and beyond.
