What Is 2 Years Employment Visa in Dubai?: Cost

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has rapidly transformed from a modest trading port to a global business powerhouse. Renowned for its towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife, Dubai has become a leading destination for professionals and businesses alike.

The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, combined with its pro-business environment, world-class infrastructure, and tax advantages, makes it a magnet for entrepreneurs, multinational corporations, and skilled workers from around the globe.

As Dubai continues to attract a diverse expatriate workforce, understanding the intricacies of 2 years employment visa in Dubai becomes crucial for those planning to live and work in the city. Employment Visa / Residence Visa not only grant legal permission to work but also offer access to a wide range of benefits, including healthcare, residency, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Navigating the process of visa services in UAE, however, can be complex, with varying requirements, procedures, and costs that often change from year to year.

The purpose of this blog is to provide a comprehensive guide to one of the most sought-after visas in Dubai, the 2 years employment visa. Whether you are an aspiring professional seeking opportunities in Dubai or an employer looking to hire talent from abroad, this blog will offer detailed insights into what the 2 years employment visa entails.

We will cover everything from eligibility criteria to the application process and, most importantly, the updated costs for employment visa / residence visa. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of what it takes to obtain and maintain this visa, ensuring a smooth transition into Dubai’s dynamic work environment.

What is the 2 Years Employment Visa in Dubai?

The 2 years employment visa in Dubai is a crucial document that allows expatriates to legally work and reside in the UAE for a duration of two years. This visa is typically issued under the sponsorship of a Dubai-based employer, who is responsible for managing the application process and ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws.

This visa not only grants the holder the right to work in Dubai but also provides a legal residency status, enabling them to access various public services, including healthcare and education. The visa serves as a bridge between the expatriate workforce and Dubai’s thriving economy, allowing individuals to contribute to the city’s growth while enjoying a stable and secure living environment.

The legal implications of holding a 2 years employment visa are significant. It ties the employee’s legal stay in the UAE to their employment status, meaning that any changes in employment, such as termination or resignation, require prompt action to either transfer the transition to a different employer or initiate departure from the country. Failure to maintain valid employment and visa status can lead to legal consequences, including fines or deportation.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the 2-year employment visa is chiefly contingent upon the specific nature of the occupation, the credentials and expertise of the applicant, and the reputation and status of the sponsoring employer. Generally, any expatriate who has secured a job offer from a company registered in Dubai can be considered for this visa. However, certain criteria must be met:

• Qualifications and Employment Status: The applicant must possess the necessary qualifications and skills relevant to the job they have been offered. In some cases, specific roles may require professional certifications or degrees, particularly in specialized industries like healthcare or engineering.

• Nationality Considerations: While the UAE is welcoming to expatriates from all over the world, there may be specific visa regulations or additional requirements based on the applicant’s nationality. These can include additional documentation or longer processing times.

• Employer Requirements: The sponsoring employer must be a legally registered entity in Dubai, with a valid trade license. The company is responsible for initiating the visa process, covering certain costs, and ensuring the employee meets all the legal requirements. Employers must also demonstrate that they are in good standing with the UAE’s labor and immigration authorities.

• Categories of Workers: The 2 years employment visa typically covers a wide range of workers, from skilled professionals to semi-skilled laborers. Common categories include engineers, healthcare professionals, IT specialists, marketing executives, and construction workers. The specific visa category may vary based on the job role and industry, influencing the application process and associated costs.

Benefits of the 2 Years Employment Visa in Dubai

The 2 years employment visa offers several significant benefits that make it an attractive option for expatriates looking to build their careers in Dubai:

• Flexibility and Security in Employment: The visa provides a two-year tenure, offering job security and the flexibility to renew or transfer the visa if the employee changes jobs. This allows expatriates to plan their careers with a degree of stability, knowing they have legal residency tied to their employment.

• Family Sponsorship: One of the key advantages of the 2 years employment visa is the ability to sponsor family members, such as a spouse and children, for residency visas. This provision enables expatriates to facilitate the relocation of their nuclear family to Dubai, thereby augmenting their standard of living and easing the acclimatization process within the metropolis. This provision enables expatriates to facilitate the relocation of their nuclear family to Dubai, thereby augmenting their standard of living and easing the acclimatization process within the metropolis.

• Access to Government Services and Amenities: Visa holders gain access to various government services, including healthcare, education, and public transportation. They can also participate in cultural and recreational activities, contributing to a well-rounded living experience in Dubai.

• Financial Services: With a valid employment visa, expatriates can open bank accounts, obtain credit cards, and apply for loans. The amalgamation of financial resources is imperative for the meticulous management of quotidian expenditures, the strategic accumulation of wealth for future exigencies, and the judicious allocation of capital into real estate or alternative asset classes.

Employment Visa Application Process

Obtaining a 2 years employment visa in Dubai involves a series of steps that are typically coordinated between the employer and the employee:

• Employer’s Role: The process begins with the employer, who must first secure an approved job offer and employment contract for the candidate. The employer then submits the visa application to the relevant Dubai authorities, along with the necessary documentation, such as the employee’s passport, photographs, and educational certificates.

• Employee’s Role: The employee is required to undergo a medical fitness test, which is a mandatory part of the visa process. They must also provide any additional documentation requested by the employer, such as proof of qualifications or experience.

• Visa Processing Timeline: Once the application is submitted, the processing time can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, the complexity of the case, and the time of year. Typically, the adjudication process for visa approval spans an approximate duration of two to four weeks. After approval, the employee will receive an entry permit, allowing them to enter Dubai and complete the final steps of the visa process.

• Final Steps: Upon arrival in Dubai, the employee must undergo a medical examination, after which the visa is stamped in their passport, and they receive their Emirates ID—The presentation of a requisite identification dossier is indispensable for the execution of diverse undertakings within the UAE. This high-level overview of the application process highlights the collaborative nature of obtaining a 2 years employment visa, with both the employer and employee playing essential roles in ensuring a smooth and timely process.

Types of Employment Visas in Dubai

Dubai offers a variety of employment visas tailored to meet the diverse needs of its workforce. These visas are designed to accommodate both short-term and long-term employment, with specialized options available for professionals in certain industries. The primary categories include:

Short-Term Employment Visas:

These visas are typically granted for temporary work assignments or projects. They are ideal for freelancers, consultants, or employees on probation. The validity ranges from 3 months to 1 year, depending on the nature of the job and the employer’s requirements. These visas are usually less expensive and quicker to obtain but come with limited benefits and fewer rights compared to long-term visas.

Long-Term Employment Visas:

These visas are suitable for those with permanent or long-term job contracts in Dubai. The most common duration for a long-term visa is 2 years, but 1-year and 3-year options are also available. Long-term visas offer greater stability and allow for family sponsorship, access to healthcare, and other residency benefits. These visas are ideal for professionals planning to establish a career in Dubai.

Specialized Employment Visas:

Tailored for specific industries or high-skilled professionals, these visas include the Golden Visa, which is aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talent such as scientists and artists. This visa category often provides extended residency (up to 10 years) and additional perks, like business ownership rights and the ability to sponsor a wider range of dependents.

Dubai’s employment visa system is structured to provide flexibility, enabling employers and employees to choose the best visa type based on the nature of work and the duration of employment.

Comparison of the 2 Years Employment Visa with Other Visas

When choosing an employment visa in Dubai, it’s essential to understand the differences between the various options available. Here’s a detailed comparison of the 2 years employment visa with other common visas:

• 1-Year Employment Visa: The 1-year visa is generally used for short-term employment contracts or probationary periods. It is less expensive and quicker to process but offers less job security compared to the 2-year visa. The abbreviated tenure necessitates recurrent renewals, imposing a burdensome obligation on both the employer and the employee. However, it’s a good option for temporary positions or for those who may not yet be certain about their long-term plans in Dubai.

• 2-Years Employment Visa: This is the most commonly issued visa in Dubai, offering a balance between stability and flexibility. It’s suitable for employees in a wide range of industries and provides enough time for the employee to establish themselves professionally and personally in Dubai. The 2-year duration allows for fewer renewals, making it cost-effective in the long run. It also enables family sponsorship and access to residency benefits like healthcare and education.

• 3-Years Employment Visa: The 3-year visa is often issued to employees in senior positions or in sectors where job security and continuity are paramount. While the upfront cost may be higher, the extended validity period means fewer renewals and potentially lower overall costs over time. This visa is ideal for companies that want to ensure long-term commitment from their employees and for professionals who are certain about their career path in Dubai.

• Golden Visa: The Golden Visa is a special category that offers residency for 5 to 10 years. It is primarily aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with exceptional talent in fields like science, technology, and the arts. The Golden Visa provides extensive benefits, including the ability to sponsor family members and business ownership rights. While it requires a significant financial commitment or proof of extraordinary professional achievement, it offers unparalleled job security and personal freedom in Dubai.

Pros and Cons:

• 1-Year Visa:
  • Pros: Lower cost, quicker processing, suitable for short-term jobs.
  • Cons: “Perpetual contract reiterations, attenuated occupational stability, and a dearth of supplementary entitlements.”

• 2-Years Visa:
  • Pros: Balanced cost and duration, suitable for most job roles, allows family sponsorship.
  • Cons: Requires renewal after 2 years, which might be a hassle for some.

• 3-Years Visa:
  • Pros: Longer duration, fewer renewals, better job stability.
  • Cons: Higher upfront cost, suitable mainly for secure, long-term roles.

• Golden Visa:
  • Pros: Long-term residency, extensive benefits, ideal for investors and top talent.
  • Cons: High cost, stringent eligibility criteria.

Selecting the Right Visa Based on Job Role and Industry

Choosing the right employment visa in Dubai involves careful consideration of several factors, including job role, industry, and long-term career goals. Here are some recommendations:

• Healthcare: Professionals in healthcare, such as doctors and nurses, often require long-term stability and continuous residency. The 3-years employment visa is typically recommended for such roles due to the need for job security and the importance of uninterrupted service in the medical field. Alternatively, high-level healthcare executives might consider the Golden Visa for its added benefits and longer residency period.

• Technology: The tech industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. For tech professionals, the 2-years employment visa offers a good balance between flexibility and stability, allowing them to switch roles or pursue new opportunities without frequent renewals. Entrepreneurs in tech might opt for the Golden Visa to leverage its business ownership benefits and long-term residency.

• Construction: The construction industry often involves project-based work with defined timelines. A 1-year employment visa may be suitable for workers involved in specific projects, while senior managers or engineers may prefer the 2-years visa for greater job security.

• Creative Industries: Artists, designers, and other creative professionals may benefit from the flexibility of a 1-year visa, especially if they work on freelance or project-based contracts. However, those with significant achievements or who wish to invest in Dubai’s creative sector may find the Golden Visa appealing due to its extended benefits and support for artistic endeavors.

Legal Implications of Choosing the Wrong Visa Type:

Selecting the wrong visa type can lead to a host of legal issues, including visa cancellations, fines, or even deportation. For example, holding a short-term visa while working in a role that demands long-term stability might result in complications during visa renewals or when applying for family sponsorship.

Employers and employees must ensure that the visa type aligns with the job role and the length of employment to avoid any legal discrepancies and to ensure compliance with UAE labor laws.

It is advisable to consult with legal experts or visa consultants to make an informed decision, as the right visa choice not only impacts your current employment but also your future opportunities and residency status in Dubai.

Pricing Update for the 2 Years Employment Visa in Dubai

The cost structure for obtaining a 2 years employment visa in Dubai has seen notable updates, reflecting changes in government policies, economic conditions, and market demands. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, along with insights into how these fees have evolved.

Breakdown of Costs

Government Fees

The government fees associated with the 2 years employment visa in Dubai include several components, such as visa processing fees, labor fees, and administrative charges. These fees have been slightly adjusted to reflect the rising administrative costs and the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline the visa processing system. For example:

• Visa Issuance Fees: The initial cost for issuing the 2 years employment visa has seen a minor increase, aligning with inflation and enhanced service provisions.

• Labor Fees: Employers are required to pay labor fees, which vary depending on the company’s category and workforce size. These fees have been revised to encourage the hiring of skilled workers and to support Emiratization initiatives.

Medical Examination Costs

Medical examinations remain a mandatory step in the visa application process. The costs for these exams have been standardized across approved medical centers, ensuring consistent pricing regardless of location. The medical tests include:

• Basic Health Screening: This covers general health assessments such as blood tests, chest X-rays, and screenings for infectious diseases like tuberculosis and HIV.

• Specialized Tests: Depending on the applicant’s job role, additional tests may be required (e.g., food handlers may need specific health clearances).

• Costs: On average, the cost for the medical examination ranges from AED 300 to AED 500, with the price varying slightly based on the center and specific tests required.

Health Insurance Requirements

Health insurance is a crucial requirement for all visa holders in Dubai, and in the current year, there have been some updates to the insurance policies to enhance coverage while controlling costs. The health insurance mandate ensures that all employees have access to medical care, and the costs are generally borne by the employer. Key points include:

• Basic Health Insurance Plan: This is the minimum coverage required, offering essential health services at an affordable cost. The cost of this plan is typically ranges from AED 650 to AED 1,000 per year, depending on the insurance provider.

• Comprehensive Plans: For those seeking broader coverage, comprehensive health plans are available, though at a higher cost, ranging from AED 1,500 to AED 5,000 annually. These plans offer more extensive benefits, including dental and optical services, and coverage for dependents.

• Adjustments: The slight increase in health insurance premiums this year is attributed to the rising cost of healthcare services and the introduction of new health benefits aimed at improving overall care for expatriates.

Emirates ID Fees

The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card for all residents in the UAE, including those holding the 2 years employment visa. The fees associated with obtaining and renewing the Emirates ID have remained relatively stable, though there are some nuances to be aware of:

• Issuance Fee: The cost to obtain an Emirates ID for the first time typically ranges from AED 170 to AED 270, depending on the visa type and the duration of the ID’s validity.

• Renewal Fee: The renewal process incurs similar costs, and the Emirates ID must be renewed every time the employment visa is renewed.

• Validity and Duration: The Emirates ID’s validity is directly linked to the visa duration, meaning it is typically valid for two years. However, if an employee changes jobs or their visa status changes, the ID may need to be updated or reissued sooner.

FAQ’s On 2 Years Employment Visa in Dubai

By providing clear and concise answers the most frequently asked questions about the 2 years employment visa in Dubai. This FAQ segment aims to demystify the visa process, helping readers navigate through common concerns and queries.