Changing your visit visa to an employment visa in the UAE is necessary if you want to legally work and earn income in the country. A visit visa is a type of temporary visa that allows individuals to visit a foreign country for a specific period of time, for purposes such as tourism, business, or medical treatment. In the context of the UAE, a visit visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the nationality of the visitor and the purpose of their visit.
Many people visit the UAE on a visit visa for job search. One of the most common reasons why people visit the UAE on a visit visa for a job search is because they may have personal connections or family members who are already living and working in the country. Such connections can prove to be valuable resources as they can offer insights into the local job market and provide access to job openings that may not be publicly advertised
While it is possible to apply for jobs from abroad, some employers in the UAE prefer to hire candidates who are already in the country, as it demonstrates their commitment to finding work and their ability to navigate the local job market.
Working on a visit visa in Dubai is illegal and can result in serious consequences. If you are caught working on a visit visa in Dubai, you could face fines, deportation, and even a ban from entering the UAE again. Employers who hire individuals on visit visas can also face penalties and fines.
Steps to change visit visa to employment visa in UAE 2023
First, you need a job to convert your visa from a visit to employment. Without an employer from a registered company in UAE, you can’t get an employment visa. An employment visa allows you to stay in the country for an extended period of time and may provide additional benefits such as access to healthcare, education, and other services.
Additionally, obtaining an employment visa may also provide you with greater job security and stability, as your employer will be responsible for your legal status in the country and you will be protected under UAE labor laws. This can provide you with greater peace of mind and allow you to focus on your job and your future in the UAE.
Here are the general steps to change your visit visa to an employment visa in the UAE:
- Obtain a job offer from a UAE employer who is willing to sponsor your employment visa. The employer will need to apply for a work permit and employment visa on your behalf.
- Once your employer has obtained the necessary work permit and employment visa, they will provide you with a copy of the visa and a visa change status application form.
- You will need to complete the visa change status application form and submit it to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate where you are currently residing. You will also need to provide the following documents:
- Your original passport and a copy of your passport
- A passport-sized photograph
- A copy of your Emirates ID application
- A medical fitness certificate from an authorized medical center
- Pay the necessary visa fees at the typing center, which will be specified on the visa change status application form.
- Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive an email or SMS notification to collect your new employment visa from the GDRFA.
- You will need to exit the country and re-enter on the new employment visa. Alternatively, if you are already inside the country on a visit visa, you may be able to change the visa status without leaving, depending on your individual circumstances.
- Within 60 days of entering the UAE on your employment visa, you will need to complete a medical test and obtain a health card from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD), depending on the emirate where you are residing.
- Obtain your Emirates ID card, which is mandatory for all residents of the UAE. You can apply for your Emirates ID card at an authorized typing center.
- Undergo any necessary medical screenings and obtain health insurance.
It is important to note that the exact steps and requirements may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the specific requirements of the immigration authorities. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a reputable immigration consultant or legal expert to guide you through the process and ensure that you meet all the requirements.
