How it works
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Documents
You
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Reviewed by MARIO E.G.S.H AI
MARIO E.G.S.H AI
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Submitted at Tasheel
Runner at MOHRE
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Permit issued
MOHRE
Documents required
Clear colour photo with white background
copyPassport copy of the worker
copyAt least six months' validityOfficial MOHRE job offer form signed by employer and worker
copyAcademic certificate according to skill level (levels 1-2 bachelor or higher; 3-4 diploma or higher; 5 high school; none for 6-9)
in some casescopyOnly if: Skill levels 1-5. MOHRE asks for a clear certificate in the worker's name; attestation is usually needed for higher skill levels (staff to confirm)Professional licence from the competent authority (e.g. DHA/MOHAP for doctors and nurses, KHDA/MOE for teachers, Ministry of Justice for advocates)
in some casescopyOnly if: Licensed professions onlyValid national ID card of the home country, both sides (Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq)
in some casescopyOnly if: Workers of Iranian, Pakistani, Afghan or Iraqi nationalityMust be valid and legible
Conditions, time and validity
- Establishment must have an electronic quota (for recruitment from abroad) and a valid licence with no violations suspending it.
- Occupation must match the establishment's activities; licensed professions need the professional licence.
- The candidate must not already hold an active work permit (overseas route); the authorised signatory applies.
- After entry or change of status, the employment contract must be submitted within 60 days.
- Processing time
- MOHRE: 2 working days.
- Validity of the result
- Two years for overseas recruitment, transfer and family-sponsored permits; other types differ (see work-permit types topic).
- Where it is applied for
- MOHRE website and app, Tawseel/business service centres; in Dubai the permit is often processed together with the visa in the unified work bundle.
Steps at the authority
- Prepare and sign the MOHRE job offer with the worker.
- Submit the permit request (UAE PASS of the signatory, website/app or business centre) with documents.
- Pay the fees; permit issued; then entry permit/visa with immigration and the employment contract within 60 days.
Tips that save you a trip
- Iranian workers: bring a clear copy of both sides of a valid Iranian national card (kart-e melli).
- Ask your employer which MOHRE category the company is in: it changes the fee from AED 250 to AED 3,450.
Common reasons for rejection or delay
- No electronic quota or establishment blocked for violations.
- Occupation does not match the licence activities, or certificate does not match the skill level.
- Passport valid less than six months; missing national ID card for Iranian workers.
Questions and answers
Can I apply for my own work permit?
No. The employer's authorised signatory applies (except the freelance permit, which the individual requests).
Do I need a university degree?
Only for skill levels 1-2 (bachelor or higher); levels 3-4 need a diploma, level 5 high school, levels 6-9 nothing. MOHRE does not count workers under AED 4,000/month or without a degree as skilled.
Checked by the MARIO E.G.S.H team on 2026-10-08. Rules can change at any time; our consultant confirms the details for your case.
Eligibility
How old is the worker?
A standard work permit needs a worker aged 18 or over. Workers aged 15-18 need a juvenile or student permit; our staff will advise.
Legal basis
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (Labour Relations) and its Executive Regulations (Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022); MOHRE service rules
Related services
Establishment fine
Settles fines recorded against your establishment with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation through Tasheel.
Injury and accident register renewal
Renews your establishment's work injury and accident register with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Receiving a UAE national work permit
Receives and processes a work permit application for a UAE national employee with MOHRE.
Work permit request for a UAE or GCC national
Applies for a work permit for a UAE national or GCC citizen with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

