UAE Working Visa Cost: Complete Breakdown & Tips
Planning to work in the UAE? One of the first things most people want to understand is the total UAE working visa cost. While the process may seem confusing at first, the costs are actually quite structured and manageable once you understand each stage involved.
For a standard two-year employment visa in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, the total cost usually ranges between AED 3,000 and AED 7,500. The final amount depends on several factors such as the company type, employee designation, visa duration, and whether the business operates on the mainland or in a free zone.
At 365 DAYS PRO SERVICES, we help businesses, entrepreneurs, and employees simplify the entire UAE visa process with complete support and transparent pricing. Whether you are applying for a new work visa or renewing an existing one, understanding the cost breakdown helps you avoid delays and unnecessary expenses.
Understanding UAE Working Visa Costs
The UAE employment visa process includes several mandatory government procedures. Instead of one single payment, the visa cost is divided into multiple stages. Each fee covers a specific legal requirement needed for residency and employment approval.
The major components usually include:
Work permit and entry permit
Medical fitness test
Emirates ID application
Health insurance
Residence visa stamping
Each of these steps is essential for obtaining legal residency and work authorization in the UAE.
Work Permit and Entry Permit Fees
The first major expense in the process is the work permit, also known as the employment entry permit. This approval is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and allows the employee to legally enter and work in the UAE.
The cost of the work permit can range from AED 250 to AED 3,500 or more depending on:
Employee skill category
Company classification
Free zone or mainland company
Job designation
Highly skilled professionals usually attract lower government fees, while lower-skilled categories may involve higher charges.
The employer is generally responsible for this cost, and in most cases, companies handle the complete process on behalf of the employee.
Medical Fitness Test Charges
After entering the UAE, employees must undergo a medical fitness test. This is a mandatory government health screening required for all residence visa applicants.
The test usually includes:
Blood test
Chest X-ray
The standard medical test fee generally ranges between AED 300 and AED 800 depending on the emirate and whether standard or VIP service is selected.
Fast-track medical services cost more but help speed up the visa approval process.
Emirates ID Application Costs
The Emirates ID is one of the most important identification documents in the UAE. Every resident must have one, and it is directly linked to residency status.
The Emirates ID fee depends on the visa duration. For a two-year visa, the charges usually range between AED 300 and AED 500.
The process includes:
Biometric registration
Fingerprinting
Official ID issuance
Without an Emirates ID, residents cannot access many essential services such as banking, mobile connections, tenancy contracts, and healthcare.
Health Insurance Expenses
Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and several other emirates. Employers are legally required to provide at least basic health coverage for employees.
Basic insurance plans generally cost between AED 700 and AED 2,000 annually depending on:
Insurance provider
Employee age
Coverage type
Job category
Premium insurance packages with wider hospital networks and advanced coverage can cost significantly more.
Residence Visa Stamping Fees
The final step in the process is residence visa stamping. This is when the residency visa is officially placed in the employee’s passport.
The visa stamping fee usually falls between AED 1,100 and AED 1,500.
Once completed, the employee officially becomes a legal UAE resident and can start working according to the employment contract.
Factors That Affect UAE Working Visa Cost
Several variables can influence the final UAE working visa cost. Understanding these factors helps companies and employees estimate expenses more accurately.
1. Mainland vs Free Zone Company
Free zone companies often have different fee structures compared to mainland businesses. Some free zones offer visa packages that may reduce overall costs.
2. Employee Skill Level
The UAE government categorizes workers based on qualifications and profession. Highly qualified professionals often attract lower government fees.
3. Visa Duration
Some visas are issued for one year, while others are valid for two or three years depending on company structure and jurisdiction.
4. Urgent Processing
Fast-track services for medical testing, Emirates ID, or visa approvals can increase the overall cost.
5. Additional Dependents
If the employee plans to sponsor family members, extra costs apply for spouse and children visas.
Tips to Reduce UAE Work Visa Expenses
Managing visa costs efficiently is important for both employers and employees. Here are some practical ways to save money:
Choose the Right Business Structure
Some free zones offer cost-effective visa packages for startups and small businesses.
Avoid Delays
Missing documents or incorrect paperwork can lead to fines and additional processing fees.
Use Professional PRO Services
Working with experienced visa consultants like 365 DAYS PRO SERVICES helps reduce mistakes and ensures faster approvals.
Compare Insurance Plans
Employers can compare multiple insurance providers to find suitable coverage at better rates.
Why Businesses Choose 365 DAYS PRO SERVICES
Handling UAE visa procedures independently can become time-consuming and stressful, especially for new businesses or foreign investors.
At 365 DAYS PRO SERVICES, we provide complete support for:
UAE employment visas
Investor visas
Family visas
Emirates ID services
Medical test appointments
Visa renewals and cancellations
PRO and government documentation services
Our experienced team ensures smooth processing, transparent guidance, and timely updates throughout the entire visa journey.
Whether you are an employer hiring international staff or a professional relocating to the UAE, our experts help simplify every step.
Final Thoughts
The UAE remains one of the world’s top destinations for professionals and entrepreneurs thanks to its tax-friendly environment, growing economy, and excellent career opportunities.
While the UAE working visa cost may initially seem complex, understanding the individual charges makes the process much easier to manage. Most employment visas typically cost between AED 3,000 and AED 7,500 depending on various factors such as company type, employee category, and processing speed.
By partnering with experienced professionals like 365 DAYS PRO SERVICES, you can avoid delays, reduce stress, and ensure a smooth visa approval process from start to finish.