If you are planning to work in the United Arab Emirates, understanding the company sponsored visa process is extremely important. The UAE, especially cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, attracts thousands of foreign professionals every year. Most expatriates working in the UAE are employed under a company sponsored visa system. This guide explains everything in simple English, with proper headings and clear steps, so you can fully understand how the process works in 2026.
What Is a Company Sponsored Visa in UAE?
A company sponsored visa in the UAE is a legal residency visa provided by an employer to a foreign worker. This means that a registered UAE company hires you and becomes responsible for sponsoring your work permit and residency visa.
In simple words, your employer handles the paperwork that allows you to legally live and work in the UAE. Without sponsorship, you cannot legally work in the country.
This system is common across the UAE, including major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
Who Needs a Company Sponsored Visa?
If you are not a UAE national and want to work in the country, you must have a valid work permit and residency visa. Tourists and visit visa holders are not allowed to work legally.
Whether you are applying for an IT job, construction work, hotel position, healthcare role, or office job, you must receive sponsorship from your employer before starting work.
Freelancers and business owners follow different visa routes, but regular employees require company sponsorship.
Types of Company Sponsored Work Visas in UAE
There are different types of employment visas depending on where the company is registered.
If your employer is located on the UAE mainland, your visa is issued under mainland labor regulations. Mainland employees can work anywhere in the UAE.
If your employer operates in a Free Zone, your visa will be issued by that specific Free Zone authority. Free Zone visas allow you to work within that zone.
Both visa types are valid and legal, but the process and authority handling them may differ slightly.
Step-by-Step Process of Company Sponsored Visa in UAE
Understanding the step-by-step process can reduce confusion and help you prepare properly.
First, you must receive a job offer from a UAE-based company. The offer letter should clearly state your job title, salary, and employment terms.
Second, your employer applies for a work permit approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or relevant Free Zone authority.
Once the work permit is approved, you will receive an entry permit if you are outside the UAE. If you are already inside the country, your visa status will be changed.
After entering the UAE on the work permit, you must complete a medical fitness test. This test checks for certain health conditions and is mandatory for residency approval.
You will also complete biometric registration for your Emirates ID. The Emirates ID is your official identity card in the UAE.
Finally, your residency visa will be stamped on your passport (or digitally issued under updated systems), and you can legally begin working.
Documents Required for Company Sponsored Visa
The documents required are usually simple but must be accurate.
You typically need:
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Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Passport-size photographs
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Signed employment contract
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Educational certificates (attested if required)
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Medical test results
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Entry permit copy
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Emirates ID application form
Your employer usually handles most documentation, but you must provide original and clear copies.
Processing Time in 2026
The UAE is known for its fast visa processing system. In most cases, the company sponsored visa process takes between 2 to 4 weeks.
Entry permits may be issued within a few days. Medical tests and Emirates ID processing can take 5 to 10 working days.
However, processing time may vary depending on company documentation, government workload, or special cases.
Cost of Company Sponsored Visa in UAE
In most cases, the employer pays the majority of visa costs. UAE labor law states that companies are responsible for employment visa expenses.
The total cost can range from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 or more, depending on job category and company type.
Employees should not be forced to pay recruitment or visa fees. Always confirm your employment terms before accepting a job offer.
Salary Requirements for Work Visa
There is no universal minimum salary for all work visas, but salary often depends on job category and qualification level.
For family sponsorship, however, a minimum salary requirement applies if you want to sponsor your spouse or children.
Professional positions such as engineers, managers, and IT specialists generally receive higher salaries compared to labor-intensive roles.
Contract and Labor Protection
When you receive a company sponsored visa, you also sign an official labor contract registered with the UAE authorities.
This contract protects your rights regarding salary, working hours, leave, and end-of-service benefits.
Standard working hours in the UAE are typically 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week, with overtime rules applying in certain sectors.
Always read your contract carefully before signing.
Duration of Company Sponsored Visa
Employment visas are usually valid for 2 years or 3 years, depending on the company registration and government regulations.
At the end of the visa period, your employer can renew your residency if you continue working.
If you resign or your contract ends, your visa will be cancelled.
What Happens If You Change Jobs?
If you want to change jobs in the UAE, your current employer must cancel your visa first. After cancellation, you may receive a grace period to stay in the country legally.
Your new employer must apply for a new work permit and residency visa.
Job switching rules have become more flexible in recent years, but contract terms must be respected.
Can You Sponsor Your Family?
Yes, after receiving your company sponsored visa, you can apply to sponsor your spouse and children if you meet the minimum salary requirement.
You must provide proof of accommodation and income stability.
Family visas allow your spouse and children to legally live in the UAE, but your spouse cannot work unless they receive their own work permit.
Benefits of Working Under Company Sponsorship
Working under company sponsorship gives you legal residency status in the UAE.
You can open a bank account, rent accommodation, obtain a driving license, and access healthcare services.
Many companies also provide additional benefits such as health insurance, flight tickets, and accommodation allowances.
The UAE offers tax-free income, which is one of the biggest advantages for foreign workers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Never work on a tourist visa. This is illegal and can lead to fines or deportation.
Always verify that your employer is legitimate and registered.
Do not hand over your passport permanently to your employer. Although some companies may hold it temporarily for visa processing, it should be returned.
Avoid recruitment agencies that demand high upfront fees.
Challenges Foreign Workers May Face
Although the UAE offers strong job opportunities, competition is high. Salaries may vary based on nationality, experience, and negotiation skills.
Cost of living in cities like Dubai can be high, especially for rent.
Adapting to cultural and workplace differences may take time, but most expatriates adjust successfully.
Can You Get Permanent Residency in UAE?
The UAE does not offer traditional permanent residency like some Western countries. However, long-term options such as the Golden Visa allow certain professionals, investors, and skilled workers to stay for 5 or 10 years.
Regular company sponsored visas are renewable but linked to employment.
Why UAE Remains Popular for Foreign Workers
The UAE continues to attract workers because of its strong economy, tax-free salaries, modern infrastructure, and international work environment.
Industries such as construction, hospitality, healthcare, aviation, IT, and finance remain active.
Many expatriates use UAE experience as a stepping stone for global career growth.
Final Thoughts
A company sponsored visa in the UAE is the standard and most common way for foreigners to work legally in the country. The process is generally straightforward when handled by a legitimate employer.
From receiving a job offer to completing medical tests and obtaining your Emirates ID, the steps are clear and structured.
Before moving, research your employer, understand your contract, and prepare your documents properly.
With proper planning and awareness, working in the UAE under company sponsorship can offer financial stability, professional growth, and international exposure.
