The UAE’s 2-Year Temporary Work Permit offers skilled professionals a streamlined path to live and work in the Emirates for up to two years. Whether you’re joining a leading corporation in Dubai or a fast-growing startup in Abu Dhabi, this permit ensures legal employment, residency, and the ability to sponsor family members. Here’s everything you need to know for May 2025.
What Is the 2-Year Temporary Work Permit?
Also known as the Employment Entry Permit, this visa is issued to non-UAE nationals sponsored by a licensed employer. It allows you to enter the UAE, complete medical and residency procedures, and work legally for up to two years (renewable).
- Validity: 2 years from the date of residency stamping
- Sponsor: UAE-registered company or free zone entity
- Family Sponsorship: Eligible to sponsor spouse and children
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must meet these core requirements:
- Valid Job Offer & Sponsorship
- A signed employment contract from a UAE-based employer.
- Employer must hold a valid trade license (mainland or free zone).
- Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or higher (or equivalent professional certification).
- Relevant work experience (typically 2+ years).
- Passport Validity
- At least 6 months’ validity remaining.
- Clean Record
- No criminal history; willingness to undergo a police clearance.
- Health Requirements
- Pass a UAE-approved medical fitness test.
Required Documents
Before you begin, collect and certify the following:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Bio-page, valid ≥ 6 months |
| Passport-style photograph | White background, recent (≤ 6 months) |
| Employment contract | Signed by you and your UAE employer |
| Educational certificates | Degrees and transcripts, attested by the UAE embassy in your home country |
| Experience letters | On company letterhead, detailing roles & tenure |
| Sponsor’s trade license | Copy of the company’s valid license |
| Medical fitness test receipt | From an approved UAE health center |
| Police clearance certificate | From your country of residence, translated & attested if not in English/Arabic |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Employer Applies for Entry Permit
- Platform: ICP Smart Services (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) or MoHRE e-services
- Action: Employer submits your passport details, job title, and contract to secure an Employment Entry Permit (valid for 60 days).
Step 2: Travel to the UAE
- Timeframe: Enter within the 60-day entry permit validity.
Step 3: Undergo Medical Fitness Test
- Location: Any UAE-approved health center
- Tests: HIV, TB chest X-ray, general health checks
- Outcome: Medical fitness certificate required for residency stamping.
Step 4: Apply for Emirates ID
- Portal: ICP or at authorized typing centers
- Action: Submit biometric data (fingerprints & photo) and pay the Emirates ID fee.
Step 5: Register Labor Contract with MoHRE
- Portal: MoHRE e-services (mohre.gov.ae)
- Action: Employer registers your contract and issues a Labor Card confirming your work authorization.
Step 6: Residence Visa Stamping
- Authority: ICP or local immigration office (e.g., GDRFA for Dubai, Tas’heel for Abu Dhabi)
- Action: Submit passport along with all attested documents and medical/ID receipts. Pay the residency stamping fee and receive your visa sticker.
Step 7: Collect Emirates ID & Passport
- Collection: Emirates ID dispatched to your UAE address; passport returned with residency stamp.
- Result: You now hold a valid UAE residence permit and can start work.
Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Entry Permit | 200 | 2–5 business days |
| Medical Fitness Test | 300–600 | 1–2 days |
| Emirates ID Registration & Biometric Capture | 170 | 3–5 days |
| Labor Contract Registration (MoHRE) | 200 | 1–3 days |
| Residence Visa Stamping | 600 | 3–7 days |
| Total Estimate | ~1,470–1,770 | Up to 2 weeks |
Fees may vary slightly by emirate or service provider. Always confirm current rates on the ICP portal and MoHRE website.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Application
- Early Attestations: Begin degree and experience document attestations 4+ weeks in advance.
- Consistent Details: Ensure names, dates, and job titles match exactly across all paperwork.
- Use UAE Pass: Simplify portal logins, form-fills, and e-signatures with UAE Pass.
- Health Insurance: Secure UAE-compliant coverage before residence stamping—it’s often checked.
- Track Applications: Regularly monitor your ICP and MoHRE dashboards for status updates.
Conclusion
The UAE 2-Year Temporary Work Permit offers a clear, structured path to employment and residency in the Emirates. By meeting eligibility criteria, preparing attested documents, and following each step outlined above, you’ll secure your work permit efficiently.
FAQs
Q: Can I sponsor my family on this permit?
Yes—once your residence visa is stamped, you can sponsor spouse and children (subject to salary thresholds).
Q: How long before I can renew?
Apply to renew at least 30 days before the visa’s expiry through ICP Smart Services.
Q: What if I change employers?
Your new employer must cancel your existing permit and reapply for a fresh entry permit and visa.
Q: Can I study on a work permit?
Part-time study related to your profession is generally allowed; full-time study requires a student permit.