How to Apply for a Dubai (UAE) Work Visa by Yourself (2025 Guide)
The United Arab Emirates—especially Dubai—is a global hub for jobs in sectors like tech, healthcare, construction, tourism, and finance. While many rely on agents to help them apply for a UAE work visa, you can absolutely do it yourself if you follow the right steps and stay informed.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Dubai (UAE) work visa on your own in 2025:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a UAE-Based Employer
You must have a confirmed job offer from a company registered in the UAE. Employers are legally responsible for initiating your work visa process.
Where to Find Legit Jobs:
Look for listings that say “Work visa provided” or “Visa sponsorship available”
Step 2: Employer Applies for Your Work Permit (Entry Permit)
Once you’re hired:
- Your employer applies for a work permit (also called an Entry Permit or eVisa) through the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- This permit allows you to legally enter the UAE for employment purposes.
Processing time: Usually 5–10 business days
Validity: Typically 60 days (you must enter the UAE within this time)
Step 3: Travel to the UAE on the Entry Permit
Once the work permit is approved, your employer sends you the entry visa electronically. You’ll use this to enter Dubai.
➡️ Upon arrival, your residency visa and Emirates ID process will begin.
Step 4: Medical Test & Emirates ID Registration
You must undergo mandatory procedures, which are coordinated by your employer:
- Medical Fitness Test (blood test and chest X-ray)
- Done at government-approved clinics
- Required for all foreign workers over age 18
- Biometric Data Collection
- For Emirates ID (your national identity card in UAE)
- Managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)
Step 5: Residency Visa Stamping
Once you pass the medical test and your ID registration is done:
- Your employer submits all final documents to UAE immigration authorities.
- Your residency visa (1–2 years, renewable) is stamped on your passport, officially making you a legal resident and employee in Dubai.
Documents Typically Required
Here’s what you’ll need to provide (you—not an agent—can collect all these):
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-sized photos (white background)
- Job offer letter or contract
- Educational certificates (if required for your job)
- Medical clearance certificate (after testing)
- Emirates ID application form
- Entry permit (provided by employer)
Pro Tips
- Never pay anyone for a job offer. UAE labor laws prohibit charging workers recruitment fees.
- Verify your employer on MOHRE’s official website or via their mobile app.
- Once in Dubai, you can track your Emirates ID and visa status using the ICP website or app.
- Use UAEPass to manage your digital government identity (you’ll need it for future services).
Avoiding Scams
Unfortunately, many applicants fall victim to fraud due to:
- Fake job offers with high salaries
- Promises of “guaranteed visas” without interviews
- Agents asking for large upfront fees
Red flags:
- Job offers from free email domains (e.g., Gmail or Yahoo)
- No interview before offer
- No company website or license
Reminder: All legitimate UAE employers process your visa for free once you’re hired.
Summary: Applying for a Dubai Work Visa (DIY Checklist)
| Step | Action | Who Handles It |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apply and get a job offer | You |
| 2 | Work permit/entry visa application | Employer |
| 3 | Enter Dubai | You |
| 4 | Medical test & biometrics | You, arranged by employer |
| 5 | Residency visa stamping | Employer & UAE immigration |