UAE Career Guide 2025: A Comprehensive Look at All 13 Work Permits
The UAE offers a range of work permits designed to accommodate the diverse needs of its workforce, including professionals, students, freelancers, and part-time employees. Each permit serves a specific purpose, ensuring compliance with labor laws and creating opportunities for individuals to contribute to the UAE’s thriving economy. Here’s a detailed overview of the 13 work permit options available in 2025:
1. Recruiting from Outside the UAE
This permit allows employers to hire workers from abroad. The hiring company handles all formalities, including visa application, medical testing, Emirates ID issuance, and labor card processing. These processes must be completed within 60 days of the worker’s arrival. Employers cover the costs and are responsible for compliance with UAE labor laws. Companies failing to obtain permits face fines between AED 50,000 and AED 200,000.
2. Transfer Work Permit
This is required when employees move between jobs within the UAE. It applies to workers being transferred from one MOHRE-registered establishment to another. The new employer must apply for the permit to ensure a seamless transition.
3. Work Permit Under Family Sponsorship
Individuals whose residency is sponsored by a family member can work in the UAE, provided their employer applies for a work permit. This option is common for spouses or dependents who wish to work without changing their residency status.
4. Temporary Work Permit
This permit is ideal for short-term employment, lasting up to six months. Employers can recruit workers for temporary projects while ensuring they are legally employed under MOHRE regulations.
5. One-Mission Work Permit
Companies can recruit workers from abroad for specific projects or temporary assignments. This permit covers the duration of a project or mission and is terminated upon completion.
6. Part-Time Work Permit
This permit allows employees to work under a part-time contract, with a minimum of 20 hours per week. It also enables individuals to work for multiple employers simultaneously without requiring approval from their primary employer.
7. Juvenile Work Permit
Designed for individuals aged 15 to 18, this permit allows teenagers to work with parental consent. Employers must adhere to specific labor law provisions, such as reduced working hours (a maximum of six hours per day) and restrictions on hazardous jobs.
8. Student Training and Employment Permit
Students aged 15 and above can work or train in the private sector for up to three months under this permit. Parental consent is mandatory, and the permit offers young individuals a chance to gain valuable work experience while continuing their studies.
9. UAE and GCC National Permit
This permit enables MOHRE-registered companies to hire UAE nationals and citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It supports local employment initiatives and encourages businesses to integrate national talent.
10. Golden Visa Work Permit
Golden Visa holders are required to obtain work permits for private sector employment. The permit covers three scenarios: starting a new job, renewing an existing work contract, or transitioning to a new employer.
11. National Trainee Permit
Companies can use this permit to train Emirati nationals in alignment with their academic qualifications. It supports the UAE’s goal of enhancing local talent and integrating citizens into the workforce.
12. Freelance Permit
This permit allows individuals to work independently without being tied to a specific employer. Freelancers can apply directly through MOHRE and engage in self-employment while complying with labor laws.
13. Private Teacher Work Permit
Qualified professionals can obtain this permit to provide private tuition. It is available to teachers, students aged 15 to 18, and other eligible individuals. Applications can be submitted directly through MOHRE’s official website.
Key Takeaways
- The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) oversees all work permits in the private sector.
- Employers generally handle work permit applications, except for freelance permits, which individuals can apply for independently.
- Each permit has specific eligibility criteria and requirements, ensuring a streamlined process for legal employment.
For detailed steps on how to apply for a specific permit, visit MOHRE
