Everything you need to know about obtaining a UAE work permit — documents, timelines, and costs explained.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from entry date)
- Recent passport-size photos (white background)
- Educational certificates — attested by home country Foreign Affairs ministry then UAE Embassy
- Professional certificates (nursing licence, engineering certificates etc) — similarly attested
- Medical fitness certificate
- Police clearance certificate from home country
- Attestation costs: $50–200 per document (home country fees)
- Medical: AED 250–400 (paid in UAE, often reimbursed)
- Emirates ID: AED 370 (employer-covered in most cases)
- Employer cannot withhold your passport (illegal)
- You are entitled to end-of-service gratuity after 1 year
- Minimum 30 days annual leave
- Medical insurance mandatory
Obtaining a UAE work permit as an African professional is a structured process. When done correctly with a genuine employer sponsor, it is entirely manageable. Here is everything you need to know.
Who Needs a UAE Work Permit?
Any non-GCC national working in the UAE requires an employment visa and work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This is always sponsored by your UAE employer.
The Step-by-Step Process
1. Job Offer & Visa Approval: Your employer applies for an entry permit on your behalf. Processing: 5–10 working days.
2. Entry Permit: Once approved, you receive a 60-day entry permit allowing you to enter the UAE to complete the process.
3. Medical Fitness Test: Required at MOHRE-approved clinics. Tests for tuberculosis and other communicable diseases. Results: 24–48 hours.
4. Emirates ID Application: Applied for simultaneously with residence visa. Biometrics taken at GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency).
5. Residence Visa Stamping: Takes 5–10 working days after medical clearance.
6. Labour Contract Registration: Your employment contract is registered with MOHRE, protecting your rights.
Required Documents
Document Attestation — The Most Important Step
Attestation must follow this chain:
1. Home country institution issues original document
2. Home country Ministry of Education (for academic) or issuing authority authenticates
3. Home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs authenticates
4. UAE Embassy in home country authenticates
5. UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs authenticates (done in UAE)
Allow 3–6 weeks for attestation. Start this process before your job offer is finalised if possible.
Costs
Most costs are borne by the employer for sponsored hires. However, be aware:
Processing Timeline
From job offer to UAE residence visa: typically 6–10 weeks when documents are in order.
Important Protections
UAE labour law protects all workers. Key rights:
NovaLink handles the full visa facilitation process for all our placements. Contact us to start your UAE journey.