The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to be one of the top destinations for job seekers in 2025. With a growing economy, tax-free salaries, and a high demand for skilled and unskilled workers, the UAE offers excellent opportunities for foreign professionals. One of the most common ways to work in the UAE is through a 2-year temporary work visa. This visa allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in the country while enjoying modern amenities and a safe lifestyle.
This guide outlines everything you need to know about the UAE 2-year work visa in 2025, including who qualifies, how to apply, required documents, fees, renewal, and cancellation steps.
What Is the UAE 2-Year Temporary Work Visa?
A UAE 2-year temporary work visa is a type of employment visa issued to foreign workers hired by UAE-based companies. It allows the employee to legally live and work in the country for two years and is usually sponsored by the employer. This visa is processed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Key Features:
- Valid for 2 years and renewable
- Requires an official job offer and employment contract
- Sponsored by a registered UAE company
- Access to healthcare, banking, and housing
- Allows family sponsorship (dependent visas)
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
For Employees:
- Must have a valid job offer from a UAE employer
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Should have relevant skills, education, or work experience
- Must pass a medical fitness test in the UAE
- Must have a clean criminal background
For Employers (Sponsors):
- Must be a legally registered company in the UAE
- Should hold a valid trade license
- Must provide a valid employment contract
- Responsible for applying through MOHRE and GDRFA
Required Documents
For Employees:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-size photos (white background)
- Signed job offer or employment contract
- Verified educational certificates (if required)
- Medical test results from an approved UAE clinic
- Police clearance certificate (if needed)
For Employers:
- Copy of the company’s trade license
- Establishment card
- MOHRE labor quota approval
- Completed visa application form
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Get a Job Offer:
Secure a job with a UAE-based company willing to sponsor your visa. - Apply for Work Permit (MOHRE):
The employer applies for an initial work permit from MOHRE. - Receive Entry Permit:
Once approved, an employment entry visa is issued so the employee can travel to the UAE. - Medical Test & Emirates ID:
After arriving in the UAE, the employee undergoes a medical fitness exam.
The employer applies for the employee’s Emirates ID. - Visa Stamping & Labor Card:
After passing the medical test, the residency visa is stamped in the passport and the labor card is issued.
Cost of a 2-Year UAE Work Visa (2025 Estimates)
| Visa Process | Cost (AED) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit (MOHRE) | 300–500 | $80–$135 |
| Entry Visa (Employment) | 500–1000 | $135–$270 |
| Medical Fitness Test | 250–350 | $68–$95 |
| Emirates ID (2 years) | 370 | $100 |
| Visa Stamping | 500–1000 | $135–$270 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 2,000–4,000 | $540–$1,100 |
Note: In most cases, the employer covers all visa-related fees. However, some costs might be deducted from the employee’s salary depending on company policy.
Renewal Process
The 2-year work visa can be renewed before expiry. The renewal process is similar to the original application and includes:
- A new work permit request from the employer
- Medical test
- Visa restamping in the passport
Cancellation Process
If an employee resigns or changes jobs, the current work visa must be canceled.
- The employer applies for visa cancellation via MOHRE and GDRFA
- The employee gets a grace period of up to 30 days to leave the UAE or transfer the visa to a new employer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for this visa without a job offer?
No. A valid job offer from a UAE-based company is required.
How long does the visa process take?
Typically, 10 to 20 working days, depending on the employer and approval timelines.
Can I change jobs while on this visa?
Yes, but your current visa must be canceled before a new employer can apply for your new visa.
Can I sponsor my family on this visa?
Yes, if you earn at least AED 4,000/month, you can apply for dependent visas for your family.
Can I travel while on this visa?
Yes, but do not stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months continuously, or the visa may become invalid.
The UAE 2-year temporary work visa remains a strong option for foreign workers looking to build their careers in the Gulf region. With the right documentation and an approved employer, the process is straightforward and efficient. The UAE continues to welcome professionals from all over the world, offering them a safe, progressive, and rewarding work environment.
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
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Email: Info@epicclicktravel.com / epicclicktraveltourism@gmail.com
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