Dubai’s thriving economy and rapid expansion continue to attract global talent. If you’ve secured a job in the Emirate, the 2‑Year Employment Visa (also known as the Work Permit and Residence Visa) lets you live and work in Dubai for up to two years, renewable thereafter. This SEO‑optimized guide covers everything you need to know in 2025: eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, processing times, and a clear, step‑by‑step application roadmap.
What Is the Dubai 2‑Year Employment Visa?
The 2‑Year Employment Visa is a combined work permit and residency visa that:
- Validates your employment in Dubai for two years
- Grants residency under your employer’s sponsorship
- Includes a Dubai ID (Emirates ID) for access to services
- Can be renewed if employment contract continues
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify in 2025, you must:
- Have a Valid Job Offer
- Employment contract signed by a UAE‑registered company with a Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) license.
- Meet Professional Qualifications
- Relevant degree, diploma, or certificates aligned with the offered role.
- Minimum of two years’ work experience if the role demands.
- Pass Health & Security Checks
- Clean blood test (HIV, Hepatitis B & C) and chest X‑ray.
- No criminal record—some sectors require police clearance from home country.
- Employer Sponsorship
- Your company must sponsor your visa and apply through the e‑channels (TAMM portal in Abu Dhabi or GDRFA in Dubai).
Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Valid for at least 6 months beyond visa expiry |
| Passport‑style photo | Recent; white background; 4×6 cm |
| Employment contract or offer letter | Signed, with job title, salary, and contract dates |
| Educational certificates | Degree/diploma attested by UAE embassy |
| Professional licenses (if any) | e.g., medical or engineering licenses |
| Blood test & X‑ray reports | From a UAE‑approved medical center |
| Police clearance certificate | Required for some professions; attested if overseas |
| Filled visa application form | GDRFA/TAMM online form |
| Medical insurance policy | Minimum UAE‑compliant coverage |
Tip: All non‑English/Arabic documents must be attested by your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE embassy.
Also Check: Slovenia Work Visa 2025: Requirements and Application Process
Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee (AED) | Processing Time* |
|---|---|---|
| Work permit application (MOHRE) | 200–500 | 2–3 days |
| Entry permit visa (initial stamp) | 300–500 | 1–2 days |
| Emirates ID issuance | 170 | 3–5 days |
| Medical fitness test | 300–600 | 1–2 days |
| Visa stamping fee | 600–800 | 3–7 days |
| Total Estimated | 1,570–2,570 | Up to 2 weeks |
*Timelines vary by emirate and medical center; apply promptly to avoid delays.
Step‑by‑Step Application Guide
Step 1: Employer Applies for Work Permit
- Company logs in to MOHRE e‑service
- Submits your basic details and job information
- Receives a Work Permit Approval (WPS)
Step 2: Apply for Entry Permit
- Using the WPS, employer or PRO applies for your Entry Visa on the GDRFA portal
- You receive an e‑visa or stamped permit allowing entry to the UAE
Step 3: Enter UAE & Complete Medical Tests
- Travel to Dubai within the entry permit validity (usually 60 days)
- Undergo mandatory blood test and chest X‑ray at an approved facility
Step 4: Apply for Emirates ID
- Visit an Amer center with application slip and passport
- Submit biometrics; pay AED 170 fee
Step 5: Visa Stamping in Passport
- Submit your passport, entry permit, medical fitness certificate, and Emirates ID application receipt to GDRFA
- Receive your 2‑year residency visa stamp in your passport
Step 6: Collect Emirates ID
- Collect your Emirates ID card from the Amer center (3–5 days later)
- Activate it for official transactions