New work permit (MOHRE)

Applies for a new work permit for an employee with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Start this request processing: 2 days

How it works

  1. 1

    Documents

    You

  2. 2

    Reviewed by MARIO E.G.S.H AI

    MARIO E.G.S.H AI

  3. 3

    Submitted at Tasheel

    Runner at MOHRE

  4. 4

    Permit issued

    MOHRE

Documents required

  • Clear colour photo with white background

    copy
  • Passport copy of the worker

    copyAt least six months' validity
  • Official MOHRE job offer form signed by employer and worker

    copy
  • Academic 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 only
  • Valid 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

  1. Prepare and sign the MOHRE job offer with the worker.
  2. Submit the permit request (UAE PASS of the signatory, website/app or business centre) with documents.
  3. 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