VISA Steps To Check While Hiring Employee | VISA Process

November 11, 2019

Hiring new employees in the UAE requires following a specific visa process. A successful hiring process ensures smooth onboarding, while incomplete documentation can cause delays that affect your business.

In the UAE, the visa application process is straightforward, but you must follow each step correctly. The process involves government approvals, medical examinations, and residence permit issuance. This guide provides a checklist for hiring employees in 2025.

Register for online services

For Free Zone Companies: Contact your authorized typing center or free zone agent to register your company for online services.

For Mainland Companies: Complete registration through the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) online systems.

Cost 2025: Fees differ from one free zone to another, starting from AED 3,500 to AED 6,500. Mainland companies: approximately AED 7,000

Timeline: 2-4 weeks for work permit approval

Step 2: Apply for an entry permit

Once the work permit is approved, the employee receives an Employment Entry Visa via email. This allows the employee to legally enter the UAE within 60 days.

Entry Permit Validity: Valid for 60 days. During this period, you must complete medical tests and other formalities.

Important: Your employee must complete all visa steps within the 60-day period.

Step 3: Complete status change

After your employee enters the UAE, you must activate the entry permit through a status change process.

Methods Available:

• In-country (recommended)
• Border run
• Out of the country

Upon arrival, the employee signs the employment contract and begins the status change process, including medical tests and an Emirates ID application.

Timeline: Visa processing takes about 1 week after employee’s arrival in the UAE

Step 4: Medical test and Emirates ID

Medical Test:

The test includes blood screening for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and a chest X-ray to check for tuberculosis.

Where: In Dubai: DHA-approved centres. Other emirates: EHS facilities.

Cost: AED 500-800.

Results: Test certificate issued within 1-2 days.

Emirates ID:

The application must be submitted within 15 days of arriving in the UAE.

Cost: AED 370-570.

Processing: 5-7 days to receive the Emirates ID after medical clearance.

Mandatory: Employers must provide health insurance (AED 500-700) covering hospitalization, surgeries, and doctor visits.

Step 5: Passport stamping

The employer submits the passport to GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs) for residence visa stamping. After stamping, the employee is fully legal to live and work for two years.

Timeline: 5-7 days

Important: Your employee cannot leave the country during stamping.

After passport collection, your employee has a certified UAE residence visa.

Closing

Follow these five steps to ensure your new hire has the best experience working in the UAE. All processes must be completed correctly to avoid delays and ensure compliance with 2025 regulations.

For professional assistance with employee visa processing, contact our PRO services team.