Planning a career in the UAE? Here's what to know about 13 types of work permits

Working in the UAE requires more than just an employment offer, every worker must hold a valid permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). These permits legally authorise employment, regulate the relationship between employer and employee, and ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.

For employers, choosing the right permit is critical to avoid penalties and delays in hiring. For professionals, knowing the available options helps in selecting the right pathway to enter or continue working in the country. With 13 different types of work permits, ranging from recruitment from abroad to freelance and part-time arrangements, the system offers flexibility for diverse categories of workers.

Streamlined hiring with the Work Bundle

As part of the government’s Zero Bureaucracy Programme, the UAE launched the Work Bundle, an integrated digital platform simplifying the hiring process. Employers can complete permit and visa procedures, conduct medical assessments, and handle Emirates ID services in one place.

This advancement reduces application steps from 15 to 5, required documents from 16 to 5, in-person visits from 7 to 2, and processing time from 30 working days to just 5.

13 types of work permits in the UAE



Key issuance conditions

Permissions are granted only if the following criteria are met:

• The worker is at least 18 years old (except juvenile/student arrangements).
• Job aligns with the company’s license and registered activity.
• The employer holds a valid trade licence and is compliant with labour regulations.
• Workers in regulated professions must meet qualification standards.
• An authorised representative must submit the application on behalf of the company.
• Failure to comply, such as submitting false documents, inactivity, or breach of systems like the Wages Protection System, may lead to permit refusal or cancellation.

Renewals, cancellations & costs

Renewals follow the same issuance requirements. All necessary documents and fees must be submitted; the charges range from AED 250 to AED 3,450 depending on company classification, A, B or C. Non-compliant firms fall under category C and face higher fees.

Cancellations require a formal employer request, complete documentation, settlement of any fines, and confirmation that the employee has received all dues.

Enforcement: Suspension for violations

New permits may be suspended if a firm:

• Violates MoHRE fee rules,
• Provides poor labour accommodation,
• Is accused of human trafficking, or
• Abuses MoHRE digital systems.

• Suspensions remain until infractions are resolved.

Why it matters

From novice professionals to seasoned jobseekers, this guide clarifies the legal landscape of work permits in the UAE. With the Work Bundle’s streamlined approach and a clear understanding of permit types, navigating employment laws just got simpler for both employers and employees.