UAE Work Permit Process 2026: Step-by-Step Guide, Fees & Timelines
Everything you need to know about getting a UAE work permit and labour card — requirements, costs, timelines, and the full application process.
What is a UAE Work Permit?
A UAE work permit (also known as a labour card) is an official authorisation that allows a foreign national to work legally for a UAE-based employer.
Quick Decision Guide
- You are hired by a UAE company
- You are outside the UAE and need an entry visa
- You are on a visit visa and received a job offer
- You want to switch employer sponsorship
- You already work in the UAE
- Your labour card is expiring soon
- You are changing jobs or employer
- You need to update your job details
Mainland vs Free Zone (2026 Comparison)
| Category | Mainland (MOHRE) | Free Zone Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 5–7 working days | ✓ 3–5 working days |
| Validity | 2–3 years | 2–3 years |
| Labour Card Fee | AED 250 – 3,000 | AED 1,000 – 2,500 |
| Medical & Emirates ID | Mandatory | Mandatory |
Requirements
Basic Requirements
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Job offer from a UAE employer
- Educational certificates (attested if required)
- Passport-size photo
- Medical fitness certificate
Employer Requirements
- Valid UAE trade licence
- Approved quota for hiring foreign workers
- Compliance with UAE labour laws
Step-by-Step Work Permit Process
- Job Offer & Quota Approval The employer secures approval to hire a foreign worker through MOHRE or the relevant Free Zone authority.
- Work Permit Application Application submitted electronically via the MOHRE portal or Free Zone system.
- Entry Visa Issuance If the employee is outside the UAE, a 60-day work entry visa is issued to allow entry and complete residency formalities.
- Status Adjustment (If Inside UAE) Convert a visit or tourist visa to an employment visa without needing to exit the country.
- Medical Fitness Test Mandatory health screening completed at an approved UAE medical centre.
- Emirates ID & Labour Card Biometrics submission, residency stamping, and issuance of the official labour card.
Processing Times
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Mainland (MOHRE) | 5–7 working days |
| Free Zone | 3–5 working days |
| Total (including medical & ID) | 7–14 working days |
Cost Breakdown (2026)
Government Fees
- Work permit application: AED 250 – 3,000
- Entry visa: AED 1,000 – 2,000
- Status adjustment (inside UAE): AED 500 – 650
Additional Costs
- Medical fitness test: AED 250 – 500
- Emirates ID: AED 300 – 600
- Labour card issuance: AED 250 – 1,500
What is a Labour Card?
A labour card is the official document that proves you are legally employed in the UAE. It is linked to your employer, required for all formal employment, and issued after your work permit is approved. It must be renewed every 2–3 years.
Work Permit Renewal
When to Renew
- Before the expiry date (validity is 2–3 years)
- Ideally 30–90 days in advance to avoid gaps
Renewal Steps
- Employer submits the renewal application
- Update medical fitness certificate and Emirates ID
- Pay applicable renewal fees
Work Permit Transfer Rules
When Transfer is Allowed
- Changing jobs within the UAE
- Upon contract completion
- With mutual agreement between employer and employee
Work Permit vs Employment Visa
| Feature | Work Permit | Employment Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Work authorisation | Residency |
| Issued By | MOHRE / Free Zone | Immigration |
| Requirement | Mandatory for work | Linked to permit |
Benefits of Working Legally in the UAE
- Job security — Protected under UAE labour laws
- Paid leave — Annual, sick, and public holiday entitlements
- Health insurance — Employer-provided coverage
- End-of-service gratuity — Accrued based on years of service
- Legal dispute resolution — Access to MOHRE mediation services
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete documentation — Missing attested certificates delays approval significantly.
- Applying through the wrong authority — Mainland roles go through MOHRE; Free Zone roles go through the zone authority.
- Medical test delays — Book your appointment early to avoid holding up the process.
- Ignoring visa validity — Overstaying on a visit visa before completing the transfer leads to fines.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a UAE work permit?
On average, 5–7 working days for Mainland and 3–5 days for Free Zones. The full process including medical and Emirates ID takes 7–14 days.
Who pays for the work permit?
The employer is legally responsible for covering work permit costs in the UAE.
Can I switch jobs in the UAE?
Yes, through a work permit transfer. The new employer initiates the process on your behalf.
Is a medical test mandatory?
Yes, a medical fitness test is mandatory for all work permit applicants without exception.
Can I convert my visit visa to a work permit?
Yes, through a status adjustment — no need to exit the UAE.