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