How to get a work visa in United Arab Emirates

The UAE has no income tax and a simple employer-sponsored work visa. Employers handle almost all of the paperwork, and long-term Golden Visas are open to high earners and specialists.

See 295 sponsored jobs in United Arab Emirates Check if an employer sponsors

Visa routes

Employment visa and residence

Anyone with a job offer from a UAE employer

Salary: No general minimum; some benefits (family sponsorship) need AED 4,000 or more a month
Processing: About 2 to 4 weeks
Permanent residence: Renewable 2-year residence while employed

Golden Visa

Skilled professionals earning AED 30,000+ a month, investors, specialists

Salary: AED 30,000 a month for the skilled professional route
Processing: Weeks
Permanent residence: 10-year renewable residence

Figures as published in 2025. Thresholds change, usually every year: always confirm on the official sources below before you apply.

Step by step

1Accept an offer; employer gets your work permit and entry visa
2Medical test and Emirates ID biometrics
3Visa stamped or issued electronically

Documents you usually need

Passport
Attested degree certificate
Passport photos
Medical fitness test

Tips

Get your degree attested in your home country before you move
Housing allowance is often a large part of the package; compare total pay

Latest sponsored jobs in United Arab Emirates

See all

Sous Chef

Accor🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

11h ago

Work Permit

English-speaking

On-siteSenior

Questions

Do I pay tax on my salary in the UAE?

There is no personal income tax, but check your home country's rules on tax residence.

Official sources

UAE government: work and residence