There’s no need to job hunt while traveling to Dubai or other cities in the UAE: the government has tightened regulations to combat illegal hiring practices, especially targeting companies that hire workers on visit visas.
What happens if an employer breaks the rules?
Under the new labour law, companies that employ individuals without the proper work permits will be subject to heavy fines. Fines range from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million (roughly Rs 2.3 million to Rs 2.3 million), a significant increase from the previous fines of AED 50,000 to AED 200,000.
Employers are strictly prohibited from:
* Hiring workers without job security.
* Unauthorized use of work permits.
* Closing down businesses without resolving workers’ rights.
What are the UAE government rules about working on a visit visa?
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has stated that it is illegal to work on a visit or tourist visa. If you plan to work in the UAE, you must have a valid work visa issued by MOHRE.
What are the penalties for violating labor laws?
The new labor law will impose severe penalties on those who violate it. Here are some key points:
Fines: Companies can be fined between AED 100,000 and AED 1 million for hiring workers without the proper work permits, failing to offer them work after they enter the country, or closing down a business without resolving workers’ rights.
Increased fines: Fines will increase depending on the number of workers involved in the violation.
Dispute Resolution: Disputes arising from these issues must be referred to the Court of First Instance if you disagree with the MOHRE’s decision.
How can I work legally in the UAE?
To work in the UAE, you need a suitable work visa. Below we have outlined the types of work visas available specifically for Indian nationals.
Work Visa: This is the most common type of work visa and is sponsored by a company based in the UAE. You will need to receive a job offer from the company, who will sponsor your visa.
Investor Visa: For those who want to start a business or invest in a company in the UAE. You must meet certain investment requirements.
Freelancer Visa: Ideal for those who want to work independently with multiple clients. Applicants must prove their skills through a portfolio and/or letters of recommendation.
Mission Visa: Issued to individuals employed by a foreign mission such as an embassy or consulate and is valid for the duration of their employment.
Domestic Helper Visa: For domestic workers, usually sponsored by an employer. Regulations and requirements for this visa may vary.
What do I need to apply for a UAE work visa?
A valid passport: valid for at least six months beyond the intended duration of your stay, with two blank pages.
Jobs: Verified jobs from UAE based employers.
Education: Some jobs may require specific qualifications.
Experience and Skill Set: Ensure you meet the experience criteria required for the job.
Health Certificate: A medical examination, including infectious disease testing, is required.
Certificate of Good Conduct: Police certificate issued from your home country or from any country where you have lived for the past five years.
Visa application: Complete, accurate and with all supporting documents.
Passport size photograph: As per the specifications provided by the UAE authorities.
Financial documents: Documents proving that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
Sponsorship: Most work visas require a sponsor (usually an employer) to help process your visa application.
The application process is as follows:
1. Decide on the visa type: Select the appropriate visa based on your employment situation.
2. Find a sponsor: Your employer or company in the UAE will be your sponsor.
3. Sign an employment contract: This will specify the terms of employment, including salary, benefits, and term of employment.
4. Medical Check-up: A medical check-up will be conducted at an accredited centre in India.
5. Gather the necessary documents: Make sure you have a valid passport, photograph, signed employment contract, verified education and experience certificates, and health certificate.
6. Apply online: Visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website and complete the application.
7. Pay Fee: Pay the visa processing fee online.
8. Submit your passport: You may need to submit your passport and supporting documents to a visa processing centre.
9. Application Processing: Please wait for your visa to be processed, which may take several weeks.
10. Travel to the UAE: Once approved, you can make travel arrangements and ensure you have all the necessary documents for immigration clearance.
How much does it cost?
UAE Work Visa Fees for Indian Citizens:
Application fee: AED 300 (non-refundable)
Visa fee: AED 750
Medical Check-up Fee: AED 250
Emirates ID fee: AED 370
Refundable deposit: AED 2,000 (paid by employer)
Insurance premium: Varies
Translation and typing fees: Varies
Delivery fee: Varies
First Published: 22 August 2024 | 05:36 PM IST