The United Arab Emirates (UAE) still stands as one of the most preferred destinations by foreigners. Factors responsible for this include a contemporary salary scheme that is tax free, openness to multicultural employee and splendid economic opportunities across key sectors like education, production, hospitality and creativity.
The 2 years employment visa is a popular means through which the country allows foreigners to work and live in the United Arab Emirates to open a local business. Although this visa does not provide job security but it offers an opportunity to gain permanent residence or family sponsorship visa.
This guide reveals all the vital information regarding the UAE 2 years employment visa in 2025 including the eligibility requirements, application process and other key details.
What is the UAE 2 Years Employment Visa?
The UAE 2-year employment visa is otherwise known as standard work visa. It serves as a residence and work permitted issued to oversea national by companies or organization (employers) based in United Arab Emirate.
This give foreigners the liberty to legally to reside and at the same time work for a stipulated duration of two (2) years and can be renewed depending on the employment status.
Standard Features of UAE 2 Years Work Visa
- Validity: The assigned duration for this type of visa is twenty four (24) months and its renewable.
- Sponsorship: It is mandatory issued by a business or company based in UAE. Your employer serves as visa sponsor thereby taking care of the application process.
- Application Duration: Getting this visa takes between two (2) to four (4) weeks.
- Legality: This type of visa includes UAE identification card, right to stay and access to work benefits like government grants.
Eligibility Requirements for the UAE Employment Visa
The key criteria for this two year work visa consist of:
- Job offer confirmation by a recognized UAE based-company or organization.
- Entry age is 18 years and maximum is 65 years, although it depends on the skill labour.
- Academic and professional certifications that meets the role offered.
- Passing fitness test like HIV, TB etc. at a recognized UAE medical facility.
- No criminal record and passport must still be valid for minimum of fix (6) months.
UAE Employment Visa Application Guide
Here are the stage-by-stage visa application process:
Stage 1: Employment Offer and Agreement
The process sets off when an employer based in UAE gives you employment through an offer letter and agreement sheet duly signed to Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Stage 2: MOHRE Approval and Entry Permit
Once the visa application is approved, you will be allowed toon entry visit for seven (7) to sixty (60) days as the case may be. This duration allows you conduct clinical test, submit biometric, eye scanning and other relevant identification verification.
Stage 3: Issuance of Labour Card
Immediately you complete the necessary check, your employer shall register the contract with MOHRE, then practice for an Emirate Identification will be done at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP). Without this card, you will lack access to healthcare, banking and other rights as a resident.
Stage 4: Approval and Visa Stamping
In this final stage, your passport shall be requested and submitted to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA) for official 2 years residence visa stamping into your passport.
Read Also: New Zealand Partner of a Worker Visa Process August 2025: Application Process
Summary of Documents Required for 24 Months UAE Visa
- Legally recognized and 6-months valid passport
- White background passport-size photograph
- Employment offer letter
- Original medical fitness results or certificates from UAE clinical facility
- Relevant qualifications and certifications confirmed by UAE Embassy
- Police clearance certificate (if applicable)
- Establishment Identity Card
- Entry permit
- Proof of stay in the UAE (tenancy proof)
- Stamped passport
- Exertions card utility
Medical Fitness Test Detail
Applicant is expected to pass a scientific exam which comprises of the following:
HIV, Tuberculosis (chest x-ray, Hepatitis, Syphilis & pregnancy test. Not meeting expected result can result in disqualification.
Essence of Identification
To possess a valid Emirates identity card is mandatory as all UAE citizens and residence are required to do so. This opens access to banking services, cell phone contracts, housing contracts, bill registration and even authorities portals.
Interested in Visa Renewal?
After first 2-year expiration, you can renew by providing updated contract and other valid documents like; valid passport, Emirate identity card, fresh scientific test, new employment agreement.
Why Prefer the UAE 2-Year Visa in 2025?
- This offers a quick process for foreign skilled labours.
- You gain access to relevant healthcare and other benefits.
- Government Charge-free income.
- Easily renewable residence.
- Privilege to sponsor close family.
- With valid visa, tour within and outside the country is possible.
Visa Cancellation Procedure
If need for termination arises, you will get 30 days grace period to depart the United Arab Emirate (UAE). Common reasons for this are:
- Not passing medical test.
- Defaulting the UAE code of conduct rules.
- Indulgence in unlawful activities.
- Not abiding by legal work ethics.
FAQs
Can I Sponsor my family?
Those with competitive salary, valid house visa, residence agreement, confirmed marriage certificate etc. can sponsor their family members.
Can I Obtain UAE 2 Years Employment Visa Without Offer?
No, it is mandatory to have a job offer from a company, enterprise or organization residing in the UAE. Direct foreign nationals can not access this visa.
Who Pays the Visa Fee and Expenses?
The entire application cost like visa, work permit, Emirate ID, medical checks and other relevant things are done by the employer.
Can I Switch to another company upon arrival?
Yes, in such cases, you must first get a fresh job offer and then carry out a visa transfer. This process is necessary before you must terminate your state-of-the-art visa and get another ticket.
Final Thought
Even in 2025, the UAE 2-year employment visa is still a preferred choice for many who wish to work and live in either Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any other emirate. By following the steps and other information in this guide, a smooth sailing and a rewarding career is affirmed.