Overview
As a business owner in the UAE, you can sponsor employee visas once you have a valid trade license. The number of visas depends on your license type and office size (mainland) or visa quota (free zone).
The process involves immigration, labor ministry, and health authority — PS Business UAE handles all of it for you.
Step-by-Step Process
- Check visa quota — ensure you have available allocation
- Apply for work permit — through MOHRE (mainland) or free zone authority
- Entry permit — employee gets visa to enter UAE (if outside)
- Medical fitness test — at an approved medical center
- Emirates ID registration — biometric registration at a typing center
- Visa stamping — residence visa stamped in passport
- Labor contract registration — employment contract filed with MOHRE
Timeline: 10-20 working days from start to completion.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit | 300 - 5,000 |
| Entry Permit | 1,000 - 1,500 |
| Medical Test | 300 - 500 |
| Emirates ID (2-year) | 370 |
| Visa Stamping | 500 - 1,000 |
| Health Insurance | 600 - 3,000/year |
| Total per Employee | 3,000 - 7,000 |
Work permit costs vary by employee skill level — skilled workers have lower fees than unskilled categories.
Visa Quota Rules
Mainland companies:
- Based on office size — 200 sq ft allows 2-3 visas
- Larger offices = more visas, no fixed upper limit
- Can increase quota by upgrading office space
Free zone companies:
- Fixed quota based on package — typically 1-3 for basic, up to 100+ for premium
- Can upgrade package for more visas
Important Requirements
- Employee passport must have 6+ months validity
- Some nationalities require security clearance (extra 1-2 weeks)
- Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Employees must pass the medical fitness test
- Employment contract must be registered with MOHRE
- Employee must be in UAE on a valid entry permit or visit visa
PS Business UAE handles the complete employee visa process. Our visa services →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor employees from any country?
Yes, but some nationalities require additional security clearance which adds 1-2 weeks to the process.
How many employees can I sponsor?
Mainland: unlimited based on office size. Free zone: limited by your package (1-100+). You can always upgrade for more visas.
Can I sponsor part-time employees?
The UAE introduced part-time work permits. Employees can work for multiple employers with proper permits.
What happens if an employee leaves?
You must cancel their visa within 30 days. They receive a 30-day grace period to find new employment or leave the UAE.