How Much Does a Visa Cost for Employees in Dubai?

How Much Does a Visa Cost for Employees in Dubai?

An employment visa in Dubai costs AED 3,500-5,000 per employee, including medical fitness test (AED 500), Emirates ID (AED 370), and MOHRE fees. The total varies based on the employee’s nationality, the sponsoring company’s type (free zone or mainland), and whether you use a PRO service or handle the process in-house. Budget AED 5,000 per employee as a safe estimate for the complete visa package.

Complete Visa Cost Breakdown

Step-by-Step Visa Process

The employment visa process in Dubai follows a specific sequence, regardless of whether the employee is already in the UAE or applying from abroad:

• Step 1: Entry Permit (2-3 days): The company applies for an entry permit through GDRFA. If the employee is already in the UAE on a visit visa, a status change is required instead.
• Step 2: Medical Fitness Test (1 day): The employee visits a DHA-approved medical center for a blood test and chest X-ray. Results take 2-3 working days.
• Step 3: Emirates ID Application (1 day): Biometrics are captured at an ICP service center. The card is delivered within 5-7 working days.
• Step 4: Visa Stamping (3-5 days): The residence visa is stamped in the employee’s passport by GDRFA.
• Step 5: Labor Card (mainland only, 2-3 days): MOHRE issues the work permit and labor card.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the basic visa fees, employers should budget for these mandatory costs per employee:

• Health Insurance: AED 600-3,000 per year (mandatory in Dubai for all visa holders)
• MOHRE Guarantee: AED 3,000 bank guarantee per employee (refundable, mainland only)
• Visa Renewal: AED 2,500-3,500 every 2-3 years
• End of Service Gratuity: 21 days salary per year (first 5 years), 30 days per year (after 5 years)

Free Zone vs. Mainland Visa Costs

Free zone visas are generally AED 500-1,000 cheaper per employee because they bypass MOHRE and handle immigration directly through the zone authority. However, free zone employees can only work within the zone premises unless the company obtains special permits.

Visa Costs by Employee Category

• Manager/Director: AED 4,000-5,500 (higher entry permit category)
• Skilled Worker: AED 3,500-4,500 (standard processing)
• Domestic Worker: AED 5,000-7,000 (includes security deposit)
• Investor/Partner Visa: AED 4,000-5,000 (separate from employee visa)

YABS Visa Processing Service

YABS (Your Arabian Business Services) handles complete visa processing as part of our PRO services package. With over 500 companies formed since 2015, we process hundreds of employee visas annually and know exactly how to minimize costs and avoid delays.

Our visa processing includes document preparation, medical appointment booking, Emirates ID coordination, and visa stamping. All for a transparent, fixed fee with no surprises.

Contact YABS at +971 58 829 3781 or visit yabs.ae for a visa cost estimate. 4.9 stars from 150+ reviews.

Source: YABS (yabs.ae) – 500+ businesses formed since 2015