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Start Your Career in the UAE: 2025 Guide to the 2-Year Temporary Work Visa.

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Epic Click Travel & Tourism

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to attract thousands of international professionals every year. With world-class infrastructure, tax-free salaries, and a safe environment, it remains a popular destination for both skilled and unskilled workers. If you’re planning to work in the UAE, one of the most common ways to begin is through a 2-year temporary work visa.

This article offers a clear breakdown of the 2025 UAE 2-year work visa process — including eligibility, required documents, step-by-step application, estimated fees, renewal, and more.

What Is a UAE 2-Year Temporary Work Visa?

The 2-year work visa allows foreign workers to live and work legally in the UAE under a valid employment contract. The visa is employer-sponsored and must be processed through government authorities, mainly the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Key Benefits:

  • Legal right to work in the UAE for 2 years
  • Renewable upon expiry
  • Sponsored by a UAE-based company
  • Eligibility to bring dependents (if income requirements are met)
  • Access to healthcare, housing, and financial services

Who Can Apply?

For Employees:

  • Must have a confirmed job offer from a UAE company
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Should meet skill, education, or experience criteria (depending on the job role)
  • Must pass a UAE medical fitness exam
  • Must have a clean criminal record

For Employers:

  • Must be a legally registered company in the UAE
  • Must hold a valid trade license
  • Must initiate the visa process through MOHRE and GDRFA
  • Must provide a valid work contract

Required Documents

From the Employee:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Passport-size photos (white background)
  • Employment contract
  • Educational certificates (attested if needed)
  • Medical test report (from UAE-approved clinic)
  • Police clearance (may be requested based on profession)

From the Employer:

  • Trade license copy
  • Establishment card
  • MOHRE labor quota approval
  • Completed visa application

How to Apply: Step-by-Step (2025 Process)

  1. Receive a Job Offer:
    Your UAE employer must first offer you a position and agree to sponsor your visa.
  2. Apply for Work Permit:
    The employer submits an application to MOHRE for your initial work permit.
  3. Get Entry Visa (Work Permit):
    Once approved, you’ll receive an entry permit to enter the UAE legally.
  4. Medical Test & Emirates ID Registration:
    After arrival, you’ll complete a medical test and begin the Emirates ID process.
  5. Visa Stamping & Residency Approval:
    The employer submits your documents to GDRFA for visa stamping and labor card issuance. You’re now officially permitted to work in the UAE.

Cost of a UAE 2-Year Work Visa (Estimated for 2025)

ServiceCost (AED)Cost (USD)
Work Permit300–500$80–$135
Entry Visa500–1000$135–$270
Medical Test250–350$68–$95
Emirates ID (2 years)370$100
Visa Stamping500–1000$135–$270
Total2,000–4,000$540–$1,100

Note: Most companies cover the full visa cost, though some deductions may apply depending on your contract.

Renewing Your Visa

  • The 2-year work visa can be renewed before expiry.
  • The process includes:
    • New work permit application by the employer
    • Updated medical test
    • Residency visa restamped in the passport

Canceling Your Visa

If you leave your job or switch employers, your existing visa must be canceled.

  • The current employer requests visa cancellation through MOHRE and GDRFA.
  • You are granted a 30-day grace period to either exit the UAE or secure a new job and transfer your visa.

FAQs

Can I get a 2-year work visa without a job offer?
No. A UAE job offer is required, and the employer must sponsor your visa.

How long does it take to process the visa?
Usually between 10 and 20 business days.

Can I change jobs during my visa period?
Yes, but your current visa must be canceled before a new employer can apply.

Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes, if your monthly salary is at least AED 4,000, you may sponsor your spouse and children.

Can I travel while on a work visa?
Yes, but avoid staying outside the UAE for more than 6 months to keep your visa valid.

Final Note

The 2-year UAE work visa is a great opportunity for professionals looking to work in a dynamic, fast-growing economy. As long as you have a valid job offer and follow the correct steps, the process is smooth and well-organized. Whether you’re looking for career growth, international exposure, or a better quality of life — the UAE is ready to welcome you.

About Epic Click Travel & Tourism L.L.C

Epic Click Travel is your trusted travel partner for hassle-free trips, specializing in fast and seamless flight bookings, hotel reservations, and visa processing. Whether it’s a short stopover or a full vacation, Epic Click Travel takes care of the details so you can enjoy every moment in Dubai.

Phone: +971 4 572 6638
WhatsApp: +971 52 427 5718
Email: Info@epicclicktravel.com / epicclicktraveltourism@gmail.com

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