How Much Is the 2 Years Employment Visa Dubai Price? -

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Are you considering working in Dubai and wondering how much a 2-year employment visa costs? With Dubai’s growing economy and attractive job opportunities, securing the right visa is crucial for expatriates seeking stability. But what are the exact costs, requirements, and steps involved?

A 2-year employment visa allows professionals to live and work legally in Dubai, providing access to essential services like banking, housing, and healthcare. However, the cost varies depending on factors like company sponsorship, free zone regulations, and government fees.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about obtaining a 2-year work visa in Dubai from application steps and renewal fees to medical tests and family sponsorship. Let’s explore the details to ensure a smooth process for your employment journey.

What Is a 2-Year Employment Visa in Dubai?

A 2-year employment visa in Dubai is a government-issued permit that allows foreign nationals to legally live and work in the UAE for two years. It is typically sponsored by an employer, meaning the company handles most of the application process.

This visa is essential for expatriates looking to establish a stable career in Dubai’s growing job market.

Holding a 2-year employment visa grants various benefits, including:

Legal authorization to work in Dubai
Access to essential services such as banking, healthcare, and housing
The ability to sponsor family members for residence visas
The option to apply for a UAE driving license
Eligibility for visa renewal upon expiry

To obtain this visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as securing a job offer, passing a mandatory medical examination, and having a valid passport.

The visa is renewable, allowing professionals to extend their stay and continue their employment in Dubai’s thriving business environment.

Why Is a 2-Year Employment Visa Important for Expatriates and Employers?

A 2-year employment visa in Dubai is essential for both expatriates and employers, as it ensures legal work authorization and long-term stability.

For expatriates, this visa provides the right to live and work in the UAE, offering job security, career growth, and access to essential services such as banking, housing, and healthcare. It also allows employees to sponsor their families, making it easier to settle in Dubai.

For employers, the visa enables them to legally hire skilled professionals from around the world, ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws. It helps businesses retain employees for longer periods, reducing recruitment costs and improving workforce stability.

By following proper visa procedures, companies can operate smoothly while attracting and maintaining a diverse and talented workforce in Dubai’s competitive job market.

How Much Does a 2-Year Employment Visa in Dubai Cost in 2025?

The cost of a 2-year employment visa in Dubai depends on several factors, including the type of employer (mainland or free zone), the applicant’s profession, and additional services like fast-track processing. Generally, the price falls between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000.

Breakdown of Costs:

A standard 2-year employment visa includes the following expenses:

Visa Application Fee: Paid to the UAE government for processing the employment visa.
Medical Examination: A mandatory test (AED 500–800) to ensure the applicant is fit for work.
Emirates ID Fee: The cost of obtaining a UAE identification card (AED 370–570 for two years).
Labour Contract Fee: A charge for registering the work contract with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Work Permit Fees: Issued by MOHRE, cost varies based on company category and job role.
Health Insurance: Employers are required to provide health insurance, but costs vary based on the policy.
Additional Charges: Fees for visa stamping, residence permit processing, and optional express services.

Pricing Variations Based on Employer Type:

Mainland Companies: Employees sponsored by mainland businesses may have slightly lower costs since MOHRE regulates visa fees. Some companies cover all visa expenses for their employees.
Free Zone Companies: Employees working in Dubai’s free zones have their visas processed by the respective free zone authority. Costs may be higher due to administrative fees and additional requirements.

Visa prices may also fluctuate based on UAE government policy changes, so it is always advisable to confirm the latest fees with your employer or relevant authorities.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a 2-Year Employment Visa in Dubai?

To qualify for a 2-year employment visa in Dubai, applicants must meet specific requirements set by the UAE government. These conditions ensure that only eligible professionals enter the workforce.

Key Eligibility Criteria:

Age Requirement: The applicant must be at least 18 years old to qualify for an employment visa.
Employer Sponsorship: The visa is issued under a UAE-registered company, which must have a valid trade license and be authorized to hire foreign employees.
Professional Qualification: Certain job roles require relevant educational qualifications. Some skilled professions (e.g., engineers, doctors) may need degree attestation.
Medical Fitness: A government-approved medical test is mandatory to ensure the applicant does not have infectious diseases.
Labour Classification: Jobs are categorized under MOHRE, and visa fees may vary based on the classification of the employer.

Documents Required for Application:

Applicants must submit the following documents for visa processing:

Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity.
Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photos meeting UAE visa specifications.
Entry Permit: Issued by MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Employment Contract: A signed contract between the employer and employee.
Attested Educational Certificates: Required for certain skilled professions.
Medical Fitness Test Results: Conducted at a UAE-approved medical center.
Emirates ID Application: Required for identification and residency status.

Failure to meet these eligibility requirements may result in visa rejection or delays in processing. Applicants should ensure they have all necessary documents before applying.

What Is the Application Process for a 2-Year Employment Visa in Dubai?

The 2-year employment visa application process involves multiple steps, including obtaining approvals from government authorities and completing medical formalities. The process is usually handled by the employer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a 2-Year Employment Visa:

Employer Applies for Entry Permit: The sponsoring company submits a work permit application through MOHRE or the free zone authority.
Entry Permit Issued: Once approved, the employee receives an entry permit allowing them to travel to Dubai.
Medical Fitness Test: The applicant undergoes a mandatory health screening at a government-approved medical center in Dubai.
Emirates ID Application: After passing the medical test, the applicant applies for an Emirates ID at a Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) center.
Visa Stamping on Passport: The employer submits the employee’s passport to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for residence visa stamping.
Labour Contract Registration: The employee signs an official labour contract, which is then registered with MOHRE.
Work Permit Issued: Once all formalities are completed, the employee receives their work permit, allowing them to legally work in Dubai.

Processing Timeline:

Entry Permit Approval 3 to 5 business days
Medical Test & Emirates ID Processing 2 to 3 business days
Visa Stamping & Work Permit Issuance 5 to 7 business days

The total processing time for a 2-year employment visa generally takes 10 to 15 business days, but this may vary depending on government workload, additional security checks, or company-specific procedures.

Employers and employees must ensure all requirements are met to avoid unnecessary delays in visa processing.

What Are the Medical and Emirates ID Costs for a Dubai Employment Visa?

Obtaining a 2-year employment visa in Dubai requires a mandatory medical examination and an Emirates ID, both of which involve specific costs. The medical test is essential to ensure the applicant is free from contagious diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV.

Conducted at government-approved health centers, the test generally costs between AED 500 and AED 800, depending on the speed of processing. Faster results may incur higher charges.

The Emirates ID is a crucial document for all UAE residents, serving as official identification. The cost for a 2-year Emirates ID typically ranges from AED 370 to AED 570, varying based on processing time and service provider.

Both the medical examination and Emirates ID fees are usually covered by the employer, but some companies may require employees to pay. Ensuring these costs are managed properly is essential for a smooth visa process.

Can Employers Cover the Cost of a 2-Year Employment Visa?

In Dubai, employers are generally responsible for covering the costs of a 2-year employment visa, including government fees, medical tests, Emirates ID, and labor contract registration.

UAE labor laws require companies to handle visa expenses, ensuring that foreign employees can work legally. However, in some cases, especially in free zones, employers may require employees to bear part of the cost, which should be clearly mentioned in the employment contract.

While most companies fully sponsor work visas, some may deduct certain fees from an employee’s salary or require reimbursement if the employee resigns before completing the contract. It is essential for employees to clarify visa payment terms with their employer before signing any agreement.

Employers failing to cover visa costs as per labor regulations may face penalties. Understanding these financial responsibilities ensures a transparent and compliant hiring process in Dubai.

Are There Any Additional Fees for a Dubai Work Visa?

Apart from the standard visa application fees, obtaining a Dubai work visa may involve additional costs depending on the job category, employer type, and specific visa processing requirements. One of the main expenses includes work permit fees, which vary based on the employee’s skill level and the company’s classification.

The labour contract registration fee, usually between AED 300 and AED 500, is another mandatory charge. Processing fees by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) range from AED 200 to AED 300.

Some employers may also be required to pay a refundable security deposit, typically between AED 3,000 and AED 5,000, depending on the employee’s job role and company status.

Additional costs may apply for express processing, visa amendments, or category-specific approvals. It is advisable to confirm these potential expenses with the employer before visa application.

How Can You Renew a 2-Year Dubai Employment Visa?

A 2-year employment visa in Dubai must be renewed before it expires to maintain legal residency and employment. The renewal process involves medical checks, document verification, and visa stamping.

Renewal Costs and Process:

The renewal process is similar to the initial visa application, requiring:

Employer Initiates Renewal: The employer submits a renewal request to MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Medical Fitness Test: The employee undergoes a new medical test.
Emirates ID Renewal: A new Emirates ID application is submitted.
Work Permit Extension: The labor contract is renewed, and the visa extension is processed.
Residence Visa Stamping: The renewed visa is stamped on the passport by GDRFA.

Renewal Fees:

The cost of renewal is similar to the initial visa, ranging between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000, depending on employer type and category.
Emirates ID and medical test fees apply again.

Late Renewal Penalties:

If an employee fails to renew their visa on time, they may face:

A grace period of 30 days after visa expiry.
A fine of AED 25 per day after the grace period.
Deportation risk if the visa remains expired for an extended period.

Employees should coordinate with their employer to ensure timely renewal and avoid penalties.

What Happens If Your Employment Visa Is Rejected?

A 2-year employment visa rejection can be frustrating, but understanding the reasons and the appeal process can help applicants take corrective action.

Common Reasons for Rejection:

Several factors can lead to an employment visa being denied:

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: Missing or improperly attested documents can cause delays or rejections.
Medical Test Failure: If an applicant is diagnosed with a communicable disease like tuberculosis or HIV, the visa is likely to be rejected.
Security or Immigration Blacklist: Individuals previously deported from the UAE or those with a criminal record may face visa denial.
Employer Issues: If the sponsoring company has an expired trade license, outstanding fines, or is under investigation, visa applications may be rejected.
Job Role Mismatch: If the job title on the application does not align with the company’s authorized business activities, the visa may not be approved.

Appeal and Reapplication Process:

If a visa application is rejected, the applicant or employer can take the following steps:

Identify the Rejection Reason: The employer can check with MOHRE or GDRFA to understand why the application was denied.
Correct the Errors: If the rejection was due to documentation or employer-related issues, necessary corrections must be made before reapplying.
Submit an Appeal: If the applicant believes the rejection was a mistake, they can appeal through the relevant UAE immigration department.
Reapply After the Waiting Period: In some cases, reapplication is allowed after a specified period, particularly if the rejection was due to security or medical reasons.

Employers and employees should carefully follow UAE visa regulations to minimize the chances of rejection and ensure a smooth application process.

Can You Sponsor Family Members with a 2-Year Work Visa?

Yes, employees holding a 2-year employment visa in Dubai can sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses and children, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

The sponsoring employee must have a minimum salary of AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with employer-provided accommodation. They must also hold a valid UAE work visa, Emirates ID, and a registered tenancy contract (Ejari) to prove suitable housing.

The sponsorship process involves applying for a family residence entry permit, followed by a medical fitness test for dependents above 18 years old. Once approved, the Emirates ID application and residence visa stamping are completed.

The total cost of sponsoring a family member varies based on visa duration and administrative fees, typically ranging from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 per dependent. Family visas must be renewed alongside the sponsor’s visa, and failure to do so may lead to fines or cancellation.

Conclusion

Securing a 2-year employment visa in Dubai is a crucial step for expatriates looking to build a stable career in the UAE. The process involves multiple steps, including medical tests, work permit applications, and Emirates ID registration.

Understanding the costs, eligibility requirements, and renewal process can help you avoid unnecessary delays and expenses.

Employers often cover visa costs, but it’s essential to clarify payment responsibilities before signing a contract. Additionally, those on a valid employment visa can sponsor their family members, ensuring a smooth transition to life in Dubai.

To avoid issues such as visa rejection or late renewal penalties, always stay updated with UAE immigration policies. By following the correct procedures, you can enjoy a hassle-free work experience in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.