Can I change my visit visa to employment visa?

Can I Change My Visit Visa to an Employment Visa in the UAE?

Yes, it is possible to convert a visit visa to an employment visa in the United Arab Emirates. This transition requires a legitimate job offer and the sponsorship of the employing company.

Requirements for Visa Conversion:

• Valid visit visa
• Job offer from a UAE-based company
• Employment contract
• Attestation of the employment contract by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)

Process of Visa Conversion:

The employing company initiates the visa conversion process on behalf of the applicant. This involves:

• Applying for a labor card through MOHRE
• Obtaining approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
• Submitting the necessary documents to GDRFA, including:
  • Passport
  • Visit visa
  • Labor card
  • Employment contract
  • Attestation from MOHRE

Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must possess a visit visa with sufficient validity (typically 30 or 90 days).
• The job offer must be for a skilled position or profession in line with the applicant’s qualifications.
• The employing company must meet the requirements for sponsoring foreign nationals, including having a valid business license and being registered with MOHRE.

Benefits of Employment Visa Conversion:

• Legitimate employment and residency status
• Extended stay in the UAE
• Potential for career growth and advancement
• Access to UAE’s social welfare benefits

Important Considerations:

• The visa conversion process can take several weeks or even months.
• Applicants must ensure that their visit visa is valid throughout the conversion process.
• It is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or expert to guide you through the procedure and ensure a smooth transition.