UAE New Employee Roadmap

1. Job Offer and Contract

• Receive and Accept Job Offer: Secure your formal job offer from your UAE-based employer.
• Review and Sign Employment Contract: Carefully examine your employment contract. Ensure it complies with UAE Labour Law. Clarify any uncertainties with your employer before proceeding.

2. Work Permit Application (Employer’s Responsibility)

• Employer Initiates Application: Your employer applies for your **Work Permit** with the **Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)** on your behalf.
• e-Work Permit (Labour Contract Approval) Issued: MOHRE issues an electronic **e-Work Permit** (also known as Labour Contract Approval or Pink Slip). Your employer provides you with the necessary details and a copy.
• Your Initial Role: Promptly provide essential documents to your employer upon request. These include a passport copy, educational certificates, and photographs.

3. Entry Permit (Visa) Application (Employer’s Responsibility)

• Employer Applies for Entry Permit: After work permit approval, your employer applies for your **Entry Permit (Visa)**. This permit officially authorizes your legal entry into the UAE for residency.
• Electronic Issuance of Entry Permit: The Entry Permit issues electronically. It goes directly to your employer for efficient processing.
• Receive Your Copy of the Entry Permit: Obtain a copy of your Entry Permit from your employer. Keep it for your records and travel preparations.
• Travel to the UAE: You are now authorized to travel to the UAE. Carry a printed copy of your Entry Permit throughout your journey.

4. Status Change (For Onshore Applicants – If Applicable)

• For Applicants Already in the UAE: If you are currently in the UAE on a tourist or visit visa, your employer initiates a **“Status Change”** procedure. This transitions your visa status.
• Seamless Visa Transition Within UAE: This essential step allows a seamless change of your visa status from visitor to resident-in-process. You can remain in the UAE, avoiding international travel.
• Managed by Immigration Authorities: Official immigration authorities manage this process within the UAE. These include the **General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)** in Dubai or the **Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)** in other Emirates.

5. Mandatory Medical Fitness Test

• Essential Health Screening: Undergo a mandatory medical fitness test. Visit a **UAE government-approved medical center**. This crucial step maintains public health and safety standards.
• Schedule Your Medical Appointment: Book an appointment at a certified medical center in your specific Emirate. For example, use DHA-approved centers in Dubai, SEHA-approved centers in Abu Dhabi, or your Emirate’s designated health authority.
• Standard Medical Examinations Conducted: The standard medical examination includes vital blood tests. These screen for HIV, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, and other communicable diseases. It also includes a comprehensive physical examination and a chest X-ray.
• Electronic Submission of Results: The approved medical center securely and electronically submits your complete test results. They send them directly to the immigration system, ensuring a streamlined process.
• Receive Your Medical Fitness Certificate: Upon successfully passing the medical examination, you receive a Medical Fitness Certificate. This formally confirms your health clearance for residency.

6. Emirates ID Application – Your National Digital Identity

• Visit an ICP-Approved Service Center: Go to an officially **ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) – approved typing center or service center**. Here, you formally submit your Emirates ID application.
• Essential Documents for Your Application:
  • Original Passport and Entry Permit for official identification and verification.
  • Medical Fitness Certificate, confirming your health clearance.
  • Recent Passport-sized photograph, adhering to UAE standards.
  • Copy of your Employment Contract, validating your residency and employment status.
  • Sponsorship letter, formally issued by your employer, confirming their sponsorship.
• Biometric Enrollment Process: At the service center, complete mandatory biometric enrollment. This includes capturing your fingerprints and a digital photograph. This process securely links your unique biometric data to your Emirates ID.
• Application Submission and Fee Payment: Submit your fully prepared application, along with the required Emirates ID fees. Do this directly at the designated service center.
• Track Your Application Status: You will promptly receive an SMS notification or online tracking details. This allows you to monitor your Emirates ID application’s real-time progress.

7. Residency Visa Stamping – Official Residency Endorsement

• Employer-Initiated Visa Stamping Process: Your employer officially initiates the crucial residency visa stamping process in your passport. They do this through the relevant immigration authority: either **GDRFA** in Dubai or **ICP** in all other Emirates.
• Passport Submission for Visa Stamping: You must submit your original passport to the designated authority. This facilitates the physical visa stamping. Ensure your passport is ready when requested.
• UAE Residency Visa Officially Stamped: Once reviewed and approved, authorities return your passport. It is now officially stamped with your UAE Residency Visa. This visa stamp serves as your primary legal confirmation of residency in the United Arab Emirates.

8. Collection of Your Emirates ID – Your Digital Identity Card

• Receive ID Collection Notification: You receive a timely SMS notification on your registered mobile number. It informs you that your new Emirates ID card is ready for collection.
• Visit Designated ID Collection Point: Collect your new Emirates ID from the designated post office or ICP collection center mentioned in the notification. Bring your application tracking details and a valid ID for verification.

9. Activate Your Emirates ID (If Activation is Required)

Activate your Emirates ID through official online portals or designated self-service kiosks. Do this if the issuing authority specifically requires it. This activation step ensures full functionality for accessing various services.

10. Open a Bank Account (Optional but Highly Recommended)

With your Emirates ID and residency visa processed, you can easily open a personal bank account in the UAE. A local bank account streamlines your financial transactions and management within the country.

11. Access Essential Services with Your Emirates ID

Your Emirates ID acts as your essential key to accessing a wide array of services throughout the UAE. This includes utilities, telecommunications, government services, healthcare, and other conveniences. It simplifies and enhances your daily life in the Emirates.

Collaboration with Your Employer

• Employer Partnership is Key: Your employer manages and facilitates many steps. Therefore, maintain open communication with your HR department. This ensures seamless coordination and timely updates.

Staying Informed & Compliant

• Prioritize Official Information Sources: Always rely on official government websites. They provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Bookmark key websites such as MOHRE, ICP, and GDRFA (Dubai).
• Stay Informed on Regulation Updates: UAE immigration and labor laws update periodically. Always verify the latest requirements and procedures. Consult official government sources before starting any step to ensure compliance and avoid issues.

Managing the Process

• Be Mindful of Processing Timeframes: Processing times vary. Factors include application volumes and government efficiency. Patience is advisable. Allow sufficient time for each stage.
• Utilize the Support of Authorized Typing Centers: Authorized typing centers, like Al Qalam Typing, offer invaluable resources. They provide expert assistance with document preparation, application submissions, and professional guidance. This simplifies complex procedures and minimizes errors.
• Medical Fitness Certificate is a Critical Requirement: Passing the mandatory medical fitness test is a prerequisite for residency. Attend your scheduled appointment promptly. Diligently follow all instructions from the medical center. This ensures a smooth health assessment.
• Don’t Hesitate to Seek Clarification: If you have uncertainties or questions, proactively seek assistance. Contact your employer, the relevant government authority, or a trusted authorized typing center. Timely clarification prevents potential delays and ensures a smoother process.