DUBAI: Whether you are a fresh graduate, an experienced professional, or a freelancer looking to work in the UAE, securing the right work permit is a legal requirement.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has outlined 13 different types of work permits for 2025, ensuring that job seekers and businesses operate within the country’s labour laws.
These permits cater to various employment needs, from full-time and part-time roles to temporary contracts, project-based work, and freelancing. Employers and workers alike must understand these permits to avoid hefty fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000 for non-compliance.
Here’s a detailed guide to all 13 work permits available in the UAE this year.
Work Permit
This work permit allows registered establishments to recruit a worker from outside the country. If you are coming to the UAE for employment, the company or organisation hiring you must apply for this specific work permit.
- Employers are responsible for obtaining the work permit, residency visa, Emirates ID, medical tests, and labour card.
- All associated costs are covered by the employer.
- The visa stamping process must be completed within 60 days of arrival.
- Companies failing to obtain a permit for an employee face fines between Dh50,000 and Dh200,000.
Transfer Work Permit
This permit is required when an expatriate worker transfers between establishments registered with MOHRE.
- Enables smooth job transitions within the UAE.
- No need to leave the country when changing jobs.
- Required when shifting from one employer to another within the UAE.
Work Permit Under the Residence of a Relative
This permit is issued to individuals whose residence visa is sponsored by a family member.
- Establishments apply for the work permit without taking over visa sponsorship.
- Allows flexibility for individuals with family sponsorship to work legally.
Temporary Work Permit
This permit allows an individual to work on a temporary contract for up to six months.
- Suitable for short-term projects and fixed-term employment.
- Available for UAE residents seeking temporary work opportunities.
- Employers must specify contract duration.
One-Mission Work Permit
This permit allows an employer to recruit a worker from abroad for a specific task or project.
- Designed for temporary assignments with a defined scope.
- The employee must leave the UAE after the project concludes.
- Ideal for short-term consultants, contractors, or specialists.
Part-Time Work Permit
A flexible option for employees looking to work for multiple employers simultaneously.
- Minimum of 20 working hours per week required.
- No need for primary employer approval.
- Allows individuals to diversify income sources.
Juvenile Work Permit
This permit allows individuals aged 15 to 18 to work under specific conditions.
- Parental or guardian consent is mandatory.
- The maximum working hours are six per day.
- Cannot engage in hazardous or physically demanding jobs.
Student Training and Employment Permit
Issued for students aged 15 and above who want to train or work in the private sector.
- Training must be aligned with a student’s academic qualifications.
- Written consent from a parent or guardian is necessary.
- Training duration is limited to three months.
UAE and GCC National Permit
This work permit is issued to UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals.
- Streamlined employment process for local and regional job seekers.
- No additional visa processing is required.
- Employers apply through MOHRE for official documentation.
Golden Visa Work Permit
Even with a Golden Visa, individuals must obtain a work permit to be employed.
- Required for Golden Visa holders joining a new employer.
- Also applicable when renewing a work contract.
- Ensures employment legality within the UAE’s regulatory framework.
National Trainee Permit
This permit is for Emirati nationals undergoing professional training.
- Helps develop skills in line with academic qualifications.
- Employers registered with MOHRE apply for the permit.
- Encourages workforce development among UAE nationals.
Freelance Permit
The only permit that can be applied for independently, allowing individuals to work without being tied to a specific employer.
- Suitable for self-employed professionals in creative, media, and tech industries.
- No employer sponsorship is required.
- Individuals can take on multiple projects or clients.
Private Teacher Work Permit
This permit is for individuals offering private tuition legally in the UAE.
- Available for government and private school teachers, university students, and professionals.
- The application process is free through the MOHRE website (mohre.gov.ae).
- Allows unemployed individuals to earn income through teaching.