Dubai continues to be a global hub for professionals seeking career opportunities, thanks to its booming economy and diverse industries. If you’re planning to work in Dubai in 2025, securing a two-year employment visa is essential. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the requirements, application process, costs, and recent updates to help you navigate the Dubai employment visa landscape smoothly.

What is a Dubai Two-Year Employment Visa?

A two-year employment visa is crucial for expatriates employed in the UAE under the sponsorship of a UAE-based employer. It provides legal residency, access to key services such as banking and healthcare, and enables visa holders to sponsor their family members. This visa allows the holder to reside and work in the country under UAE labor laws.

Eligibility for a Dubai Employment Visa

To be eligible for a Dubai employment visa, applicants generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Secure a confirmed job offer from a UAE-registered employer.
• Possess educational or professional certificates, if required for the job.
• Obtain a medical clearance certificate from a UAE-approved facility.
• Have a Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) work permit approval.
• Fall under one of the three skill classification categories based on education:
  • Category 1: Bachelor’s degree holders
  • Category 2: Post-secondary diploma holders
  • Category 3: High school diploma holders

Step-by-Step Application Process for a Dubai Employment Visa

1. Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship

Secure a confirmed job offer from a UAE-registered employer, who will act as your sponsor and handle visa processing.

2. MOHRE Work Permit Approval

The employer applies for a work permit through MOHRE, confirming the company’s authorization to hire foreign talent.

3. Entry Permit Issuance

Upon approval, an Entry Permit is granted, allowing the applicant to enter Dubai and proceed with formalities. This permit remains valid for 60 days.

4. Medical Examination

5. Emirates ID Registration

The UAE Resident Identity Card (Emirates ID) application includes biometric verification and is required for all residents.

6. Visa Stamping and Residency Approval

Once all formalities are completed, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) stamps the employment visa on the applicant’s passport, granting legal residency.

Key Documents Required

Both the employer and employee need to provide specific documents for the visa application:

From the Employer:

• A valid employment contract signed by both parties.
• A work permit issued by MOHRE.
• Trade license copy of the company.

From the Employee:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity).
• Passport-size photos (white background).
• Educational certificates (attested by the UAE embassy in your home country and UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs – MoFA).
• Medical fitness test results.
• Police clearance certificate (in some cases).

Cost of a Dubai Two-Year Employment Visa in 2025

The cost of a two-year Dubai visa in 2025 can range from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000. This cost typically covers:

• Government fees for the work permit and visa stamping.
• Medical examination fees.
• Emirates ID application fees.
• Employer sponsorship fees.

Note: If you are an employee, the company needs to bear all expenses. If you are a partner or owner, you need to bear all the expenses. Dependent visa expenses for a wife and child are personal and need to be borne by the father or husband.

Key Updates for 2025

• AI-powered visa renewals (Salama System): The UAE’s ‘Salama’ system automates visa renewal applications, reducing processing times significantly.
• Expanded Golden Visa categories: Professionals in teaching, healthcare, sustainability, and digital content creation are now eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa.
• Faster digital processing: Most visa services are now online, eliminating paperwork and minimizing in-person visits.
• Visa-on-arrival expansion for Indians: Indian passport holders who meet eligibility criteria can now obtain a visa on arrival, making entry procedures smoother.
• More inclusive family sponsorship rules: Expatriates earning over AED 4,000 per month can now sponsor their spouses, children, and even parents.

What if Someone is Found Working Without a Work Permit?

According to the UAE government rules, a person is allowed to work only for the company sponsoring them. Violating these rules will lead to a fine, imprisonment, or deportation. The sponsor is also charged if someone not sponsored by them is employed. A minimum fine of AED 50,000 is charged in this case. This applies to individuals on a dependent visa without a work permit.

How to Check Your Dubai Visa Status: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

Keeping track of your Dubai visa status is essential for ensuring legal residency and hassle-free travel within the UAE. Fortunately, Dubai offers multiple convenient methods to check your visa status, whether you’re inside or outside the country. This comprehensive guide outlines the various ways to check your Dubai visa status in 2025, complete with step-by-step instructions

1. Check Dubai Visa Status Online via GDRFA Website

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai provides an online portal to check the status of Dubai-issued visas.

Steps:

1. Visit the GDRFA Website: Go to the official GDRFA website (https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en).
2. Navigate to Visa Inquiry: Click on “Services” and find “Visa Status” or “Inquiry.” The exact wording may vary.
3. Enter Visa Information: Input the required information, which usually includes:
   • Passport Number
   • Visa File Number or Application Number
   • Nationality
4. Complete Verification: Complete the CAPTCHA verification (if prompted).
5. View Status: Click “Search” or “Submit” to view your visa status. The portal will display your visa validity and other relevant details.

2. Check UAE Visa Status via the ICP Website

For visas issued outside of Dubai or if you prefer a centralized portal, you can use the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website.

Steps:

1. Visit the ICP Website: Go to the ICP Smart Services website (https://icp.gov.ae/).
2. Select “Visa Status Inquiry”: Look for “Visa Status” under the “Services” or “Inquiries” section.
3. Enter Required Information: Depending on the portal, you may need to select:
   • “Passport Information” and enter your passport number and nationality.
   • “Visa File Number,” and enter your visa number and other details.
4. Submit and Verify: Complete any required security checks and submit your request.
5. View Results: Your visa status, validity, and other details will be displayed.

3. Check Visa Status Using the DubaiNow App

The DubaiNow app is a unified platform for various Dubai government services, including visa status checks.

Steps:

1. Download and Install: Download the DubaiNow app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Register or Log In: Create an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Navigate to GDRFA Services: Find and select “GDRFA Services” or “Visa Services.”
4. Enter Details: Follow the prompts to enter your passport number, visa number, or other required information.
5. View Status: Your visa details and current status will be displayed on the app.

4. Check Dubai Visa Status via SMS

You can also check your visa status via SMS, although this method may have limited functionality and may not be available for all visa types.

Steps:

1. Compose SMS: Create a new SMS message.
2. Enter Details: The format may vary, but typically involves sending your visa number or passport number to a designated number. (e.g., Visa 123456789 IND to 6060)
3. Send SMS: Send the SMS to the designated number (e.g., 6060 for Dubai visas).
4. Receive Status: You’ll receive an SMS reply with your visa status.

5. Contact Amer Service (Dubai Visas)

Amer centers are authorized customer service centers for GDRFA Dubai.

Steps:

1. Call Amer: Dial the toll-free number 800 5111 if you are inside the UAE. If you are outside the UAE, call +9714-313-9999.
2. Provide Information: Provide your passport number, visa number, and other details to the customer service agent.
3. Receive Status: The agent will check your visa status and provide you with the details.

6. Visit a Typing Center

If you’re unable to check your visa status online, you can visit an authorized typing center in the UAE. They can assist you in checking your visa status for a small fee.

7. Visit the Immigration Office

You can visit the nearest immigration office to check your visa status.

Required Information

Regardless of the method you choose, ensure you have the following information readily available:

• Passport number
• Visa file number or application number
• Nationality
• Date of birth (in some cases)

Understanding the Visa Status

The results of your visa status check will typically indicate whether your visa is:

• Valid
• Expired
• Canceled
• Pending (if your application is still in process)

Importance of Checking Your Visa Status

Regularly checking your Dubai visa status is essential to:

• Ensure your residency is legal.
• Avoid overstay fines or penalties.
• Prevent travel disruptions.
• Confirm that your visa is still valid after making changes to your passport or other personal information.

Summary Table: Dubai Two-Year Employment Visa Details

Aspect	Details
Visa Type	Employment Visa (Residence Visa)
Validity	2 years
Eligibility	18+, job offer, valid passport, medical fitness, MOHRE approval
Cost	AED 3,000 – AED 7,000 (borne by employer typically)
Key Requirements	Passport, photos, employment contract, medical test, Emirates ID
Application Process	Employer applies for work permit and visa, employee undergoes medical and ID registration
Recent Updates	AI-powered renewals, expanded Golden Visa, faster digital processing, inclusive family sponsorship rules
Working without permit	Illegal; fines, imprisonment, and deportation

FAQs

Q1: How long is a Dubai employment visa valid for?

A1: Typically, a Dubai employment visa is valid for two years.

Q2: Who is responsible for the cost of the employment visa?

A2: Generally, the sponsoring company is responsible for covering the expenses of the employment visa.

Q3: What happens if I leave my job before the visa expires?

A3: If you leave your job before the visa expires, your employer must cancel your visa. You will then have a limited time to find new sponsorship or leave the country.

Q4: Can I sponsor my family members with an employment visa?

A4: Yes, if you earn over AED 4,000 per month, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents.

Q5: Where can I get my educational certificates attested?

A5: Educational certificates must be attested by the UAE embassy in your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

Conclusion

Obtaining a two-year employment visa in Dubai for 2025 involves several steps, from securing a job offer to completing medical and registration requirements. Staying informed about the latest updates and understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial for a smooth transition. With its thriving economy and world-class infrastructure, Dubai offers numerous opportunities for professionals seeking career growth, making the investment in obtaining a work visa a worthwhile endeavor.