In the UAE private sector, a work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is the formal authorisation that allows a person to work legally for an establishment. According to the UAE Government portal (u.ae), MoHRE is the competent authority for most private‑sector employment, and it issues several distinct permit types depending on the worker’s status and the nature of the job. These work permit types in the UAE are usually linked to a labour contract and, for non‑nationals, to a residence visa procedure with the relevant residency authority.
MoHRE’s Executive Regulations under Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021 define 13 specific MoHRE work permits. They cover recruitment from abroad, transfers between employers, part‑time and temporary work, students, juveniles, UAE and GCC nationals, Golden Visa holders, freelancers and domestic workers. EGSH helps employers, HR teams and individuals navigate these UAE work permit categories correctly and coordinate their applications through the appropriate government channels, while MoHRE retains full decision‑making authority.
MoHRE Work Permits in the UAE: Overview
A work permit, in MoHRE’s framework, is the instrument that links an establishment’s labour file to an individual worker and authorises that person to perform work under UAE labour legislation. For non‑nationals in the private sector, the sequence typically runs from work permit approval, to signing the employment contract, to obtaining a residence visa from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. Without a valid permit, performing paid work for a MoHRE‑registered establishment can breach UAE labour regulations.
From a compliance perspective, understanding UAE work permit types is as important as understanding the contract itself. Different permits apply when hiring someone from outside the UAE, when moving a worker between companies, when engaging staff only temporarily, or when dealing with special categories such as juveniles, students and Golden Visa holders. Domestic workers are governed by a separate regime and work in private households rather than commercial establishments, so their permits fall under a distinct “Domestic workers” sector within MoHRE services.
At a high level, the 13 permits can be grouped into recruitment permits (for bringing in workers from abroad), internal mobility and change‑of‑status permits, special arrangements such as part‑time and temporary work, permits for students and juveniles, permits specific to UAE and GCC nationals or Golden Visa holders, self‑employment through a freelance permit, and the dedicated domestic workers work permit UAE regime. Regulations may be updated by Cabinet decisions or MoHRE circulars, so the descriptions below reflect the framework available through MoHRE and u.ae at the time of writing.
Get Labour Services in Dubai Through EGSH
Authorised One-Stop Government Services Centre
- All government services in one place
- Completed in one visit
- VIP service without queues
- Regulated government fees
The 13 MoHRE Work Permit Categories
MoHRE’s Executive Regulations formally list 13 types of work permits that UAE employers and workers may rely on, each with its own purpose and eligibility conditions. The permits differ according to whether the worker is a non‑national or a UAE/GCC national, whether they are inside or outside the UAE, their residence visa sponsor, their age, and whether the work is standard employment, training, or freelance activity.
The names below follow MoHRE’s terminology as closely as possible, while explaining how each permit is typically used. This block outlines the 13 types of work permits recognised by UAE law within the MoHRE system.
1. Work Permit – Recruiting a Worker from Outside the State
The work permit allows a worker from outside the State to be hired by a MoHRE‑registered establishment to hire a person who is currently abroad and not resident in the UAE. As per MoHRE’s Executive Regulations, this is the standard permit used when a company offers a job to an overseas candidate and wishes to bring them in as a new employee. Because it is often informally called the overseas work permit UAE companies use for foreign hires, it is closely tied to subsequent steps: entry permit issuance, medical fitness tests, Emirates ID procedures and residence‑visa stamping by the competent residency authority.
Once MoHRE approves this permit, the employer and worker can finalise the labour contract under MoHRE’s system. The worker’s legal right to work is then anchored in both the contract and the residence visa, and the employer must ensure that the job position, profession and salary declared in the application match the actual employment terms offered to the worker.
2. Transfer Work Permit
The transfer work permit UAE employers use is for non‑national workers who are already in the country and wish to move from one establishment to another, both registered with MoHRE. Rather than cancelling the worker’s status and starting from zero, the transfer permit facilitates continuity of residence while changing the sponsoring employer under MoHRE’s labour system.
Issuing this permit requires that the current employer and the new employer comply with MoHRE’s conditions, which may include settling any contractual obligations, adhering to notice periods, and obtaining the worker’s consent. When properly processed, the worker’s labour file is moved to the new company, helping avoid gaps in work authorisation.
3. Work Permit for Residents Sponsored by Their Families
A work permit for family-sponsored residents is required when an individual's residence visa is held under a spouse, parent, or other eligible family sponsor, but they wish to work for an MoHRE-registered establishment. In this case, residence sponsorship remains unchanged; the permit simply authorises the individual to work while remaining dependent on their family member’s visa.
This type of approval is sometimes described as a family-sponsored work permit that UAE residents obtain to enter formal employment without shifting their residency to their employer. Employers must still register the worker under their establishment’s labour file and respect all labour‑law obligations, even though the residence visa is not in their name.
4. Temporary Work Permit
A temporary work permit used by UAE establishments applies when a worker is engaged to carry out a specific job that must be completed within a defined, limited period. The Executive Regulations describe it as a permit for work to be executed or completed within a specific period at an establishment registered with MoHRE. It is therefore not intended for open‑ended or indefinite roles, but for time‑bound assignments where the end date is known in advance.
In practice, this permit can be suitable for seasonal campaigns, fixed‑duration projects or cover for a temporarily vacant role. Employers using it must ensure that the contract, job scope and actual working arrangements correspond to the temporary nature declared in the permit application and must either renew or close the employment relationship when the project ends.
5. One‑Mission Work Permit
The one‑mission work permit UAE companies may apply for is used when an establishment wants to recruit a worker from abroad, specifically to complete a temporary job or a particular project for a defined period. Unlike the general overseas recruitment permit, which can lead to a long‑term role, this permit is tied to a single mission or project in the UAE.
Because the permit is designed for a specific mission, both the employer and the worker should clearly understand the project's scope and expected duration before applying. Once the mission is completed, the employment relationship typically ends unless a new, appropriate permit and contract are arranged in line with MoHRE rules.
6. Part‑Time Work Permit
A part‑time work permit allows UAE employers to hire an individual under a part‑time contract, where the agreed working hours or working days are less than those of a comparable full‑time role. MoHRE’s framework allows a worker holding such a permit to work for more than one employer, provided that each employer obtains the necessary approvals and complies with the part‑time contract conditions.
From an HR perspective, this permit is particularly relevant when engaging specialists whose services are needed for only a limited time, or when accommodating workers who wish to combine more than one role. Coordination between employers is essential to ensure that total working hours remain compliant with labour‑law limits and that occupational health and safety obligations are met across all workplaces.
7. Juvenile Work Permit
The juvenile work permit under UAE law applies to persons who have reached 15 years of age but are under 18 and will work in an establishment registered with MoHRE. Employment of juveniles is subject to special protections and restrictions under Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021 and its Executive Regulations, including limitations on working hours, night work and hazardous occupations.
When applying for this permit, employers must demonstrate that the job is suitable for the juvenile’s age and that the workplace complies with all juvenile‑employment rules. Parents or guardians may also need to provide consent, and additional documentation, such as medical fitness evidence, may be required according to MoHRE’s applicable procedures.
8. Student Training and Employment Permit
The student training and employment permit that UAE establishments use enables them to train or employ a student who is already in the UAE and has reached 15 years of age. This permit recognises that students may gain experience through part‑time work, internships or structured training, provided that the environment is appropriate and the activity complies with MoHRE standards.
The permit can cover both unpaid training and paid employment, depending on the arrangement agreed between the establishment, the student and, where relevant, the educational institution. Employers must ensure that the tasks assigned are consistent with the training objectives, that working hours remain compatible with studies, and that all relevant safety and welfare requirements are met.
9. UAE / GCC Nationals Work Permit
The UAE nationals' work permit is the category through which MoHRE‑registered establishments employ UAE citizens; it also covers citizens of other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. According to MoHRE’s Executive Regulations, an electronic quota is not required for this permit type, thereby supporting Emiratisation policies and facilitating regional workforce mobility.
Although UAE and GCC nationals do not require a residence visa in the same way as foreign workers, their employment relationships are still governed by UAE labour legislation when they work in the private sector. Employers must therefore register these workers correctly, issue appropriate contracts and comply with social‑security and benefits obligations that may apply to national employees.
10. Golden Visa Holders Work Permit
A UAE company may request a work permit for a Golden Visa holder when it wants to employ an individual who already holds a UAE Golden Residence visa. Although Golden Visa holders enjoy long-term residency independent of a particular employer, they still require an appropriate work permit and labour contract to work in the private sector under the MoHRE jurisdiction.
Through this permit, MoHRE links the Golden Visa holder’s employment to the hiring establishment while the residence status continues under the Golden Visa regime. This arrangement allows greater flexibility for highly skilled professionals and investors, while ensuring that employment remains regulated and aligned with UAE labour standards.
11. National Trainee Work Permit
The national trainee work permit that UAE employers use is intended for training UAE nationals in the private sector. MoHRE issues this permit to establishments that wish to train Emiratis based on their approved academic qualifications, often as part of structured training or graduate‑development programmes.
Such permits help companies build local talent pipelines, demonstrate compliance with Emiratisation initiatives, and give Emirati trainees experience in real working environments. The training content, duration and evaluation methods should align with the trainee’s qualifications and with any guidelines MoHRE issues for national training schemes.
12. Freelance Permit
The freelance permit issued by the UAE MoHRE is designed for individuals who wish to engage in independent self‑employment in the UAE without being sponsored by a specific employer or entering into a standard employment contract. A freelancer under this permit can provide services or perform tasks for various clients, including individuals and establishments, but is not considered their employee under labour‑law rules.
Holding this permit generally means the freelancer is responsible for managing their own business affairs, including contracts with clients and compliance with any future tax or regulatory obligations. Before applying, individuals should confirm the permitted activities, any qualification or experience requirements, and how the freelance permit interacts with their residence visa status.
13. Domestic Workers Work Permit
The domestic workers' work permit applies to UAE households, and certain establishments may apply to domestic occupations such as housemaids, nannies, private drivers and similar roles, whether the worker is recruited from inside or outside the UAE. MoHRE classifies this under the “Domestic workers” sector, which is governed by separate domestic workers legislation and specific service procedures distinct from general establishment‑worker permits.
Domestic workers generally perform their duties in a private household rather than a commercial workplace, and their rights and obligations are framed by domestic worker contracts approved under the relevant law. Employers in this sector must use the dedicated MoHRE services for domestic workers, comply with conditions on accommodation, rest days and treatment, and avoid using standard establishment permits for roles that clearly fall within the domestic‑worker definition.
| Aspect | Establishment Workers Permits | Domestic Workers Work Permit UAE |
|---|---|---|
| Sector in MoHRE system | General “Establishments” (private sector companies) | Separate “Domestic workers” sector |
| Typical workplace | Offices, shops, factories, construction sites, etc. | Private households or personal service to individuals |
| Main governing legislation | Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021 and its Regulations | Dedicated domestic workers law and implementing rules |
| Application channel | Establishment labour file via MoHRE eServices/centres | Domestic workers services and approved recruitment channels |
| Typical employer | Commercial or professional legal entities | Individual household sponsors or specialised agencies |
Why Choose EGSH for Government Services in Dubai
VIP Service
Personal assistance and priority processing with no queues.
Affordable Fees
Official government rates with transparent, fixed pricing.
All Services in One Place
Comprehensive range of UAE government services under one roof.
One-Visit Completion
Most procedures are completed in a single visit to the centre.
Choosing the Correct Work Permit Type
Selecting the correct UAE work permit type depends mainly on the worker’s status and the nature and duration of the work. Key questions include whether the worker is in or out of the UAE, whether they are sponsored by family, whether they are a student or juvenile, whether they are a UAE or GCC national or a Golden Visa holder, and whether the role is permanent, temporary, one‑off, part‑time, or freelance. Matching these factors to the 13 categories helps avoid misclassification and potential non‑compliance.
For example, an employer hiring a professional currently abroad will typically use the standard work permit to recruit a worker from outside the State, whereas recruiting a specialist for a short, project‑based engagement may call for a one‑mission work permit. A worker who wishes to change jobs within the UAE will usually require a transfer permit, subject to MoHRE rules, while a spouse or adult child holding a family residence visa would require the specific permit for residents sponsored by their families if they want to work for a company.
Students seeking regulated work experience are usually covered either by the student training and employment permit or, in some cases, by part‑time arrangements if they meet MoHRE conditions. Independent professionals who provide services to multiple clients may consider applying for a freelance permit, ensuring they understand its self‑employment nature and how it relates to their residence visa.
Households that wish to hire a live-in housemaid, nanny, or similar role must use the domestic workers permit regime rather than establishment‑based permits, as a domestic worker work permit vs standard work permit UAE comparison shows they fall under different legal frameworks.
Before proceeding, both employers and individuals should cross‑check the latest eligibility rules, documentation lists and any sector‑specific restrictions directly on MoHRE’s digital services or the u.ae portal. EGSH can help interpret which authorities and channels apply to a particular scenario, but only MoHRE can determine whether an application meets current regulatory requirements.
Visit EGSH for VIP Service Without Queues
You can stop by EGSH during working hours without an appointment or book your visit at a time that suits you best.
Address
Art of Living Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai
Operating hours
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
Application Channels, Processing and Fees: High‑Level View
According to MoHRE and u.ae, applications for most MoHRE work permits are submitted electronically, either through MoHRE’s official eServices portal, its smart application or authorised typing and business service centres. Establishments must generally have an active labour file, a valid trade licence and up‑to‑date establishment information before a permit request can be lodged under their account. Individuals applying for freelance or similar permits follow the procedures specified for their category in the MoHRE systems.
The exact documents, attestations, and approvals required differ by permit type and sector. For instance, a domestic worker's permit uses dedicated forms and conditions described on MoHRE’s domestic workers service pages, while a student training permit may require confirmation from the educational institution. Fees and processing times are also set by MoHRE and may vary depending on factors such as the establishment’s category, the worker’s skill level and whether the application is new, a renewal or a transfer.
All applications are subject to MoHRE’s review, which includes checking compliance with labour regulations, availability of any required quotas and consistency between the permit request and the underlying contract.
Compliance Responsibilities
Employers bear primary responsibility for ensuring that each worker they engage is covered by the correct work permit type and that the permit remains valid for the duration and scope of the employment. This involves keeping establishment data current with MoHRE, applying for renewals or transfers in good time, respecting special conditions attached to certain permits (such as juvenile or student work) and not assigning workers tasks that fall outside the profession or sector authorised by the permit. Failure to do so can expose the company to administrative sanctions under UAE labour legislation.
Workers themselves share responsibility for working only under a valid permit and within its limits. A person holding a part‑time permit, for instance, should not assume that this automatically allows full‑time work for another employer without separate approval, and a family‑sponsored resident should not commence employment without the appropriate MoHRE permit. Understanding the difference between being an employee under a labour contract and being a self‑employed freelancer is also essential to avoid misunderstandings about rights and obligations.
FAQ
What are the 13 MoHRE work permit types in the UAE, and who issues them?
MoHRE issues 13 defined work permit categories under the Executive Regulations to Federal Decree‑Law No. 33 of 2021, covering overseas recruitment, internal transfers, family‑sponsored residents, temporary and one‑mission work, part‑time work, juveniles, students, UAE/GCC nationals, Golden Visa holders, national trainees, freelancers and domestic workers. Each permit is requested either by a MoHRE‑registered establishment or, for freelance permits, by the individual, and all decisions on approval rest with MoHRE. For domestic workers, the permit belongs to a dedicated sector with its own procedures and contract templates.
What is the difference between a UAE work permit and a residence visa in practice?
A UAE work permit is an authorisation from MoHRE allowing a person to work for a specific establishment or under a defined arrangement, while a residence visa is granted by GDRFA or ICP and allows the person to live legally in the UAE for a period. For most non‑nationals in the private sector, MoHRE work permit approval is a prerequisite to obtaining or renewing a residence visa linked to employment. Even if a person holds a valid residence visa, they may not lawfully work for a MoHRE‑registered employer without the appropriate work permit and contract.
Which UAE work permit do I need as a student already in the country?
A student who has reached 15 years of age and is residing in the UAE typically falls under the student training and employment permit when undertaking regulated training, internships or part‑time work with a MoHRE‑registered establishment. The employer applies for this permit so that the student’s practical experience is formally recognised and supervised. Depending on the case, MoHRE may also require documentation from the educational institution and will impose limits on working hours and job types to ensure that studies remain the priority.
Can family‑sponsored residents work in the UAE without changing their visa sponsor?
Family‑sponsored residents may work for a private‑sector employer without changing their residence‑visa sponsor by using the specific work permit for residents sponsored by their families. Under this arrangement, the family member remains the sponsor for residency, while MoHRE authorises the employment relationship through a separate permit and labour contract. The employer must still register the worker in its labour file and comply with all obligations regarding wages, leave, and end‑of‑service benefits.
How to transfer a work permit to a new company in the UAE when changing jobs?
When a non‑national worker changes jobs within the UAE private sector, the new employer generally applies for a transfer work permit, subject to MoHRE’s conditions. This process usually involves obtaining the current employer’s clearance, complying with contractual notice requirements, and ensuring the worker’s status remains regular throughout the transition. Only once MoHRE approves the transfer can the worker legally start work for the new company under the updated permit and contract.
What are the UAE freelance self‑employment permit requirements in general terms?
The freelance permit allows individuals to undertake self‑employment without a single sponsoring employer, but applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and activity list defined by MoHRE. Typically, this includes demonstrating professional skills or qualifications in the chosen field, maintaining a valid residence status, and agreeing to operate as an independent service provider rather than an employee. Applicants should consult the relevant MoHRE service description for their activity to confirm documentation requirements and any sector‑specific limitations before applying.
Do Golden Visa holders need a work permit in the UAE to be employed by a company?
Golden Visa holders who wish to be employed in the private sector still require a work permit issued upon the hiring establishment's request. The Golden Residence provides long‑term stay and, in many cases, greater flexibility between employers, but it does not replace the need for MoHRE to regulate the employment relationship through a permit and labour contract. Companies must therefore follow the designated process for employing Golden Visa holders, just as they would for other categories of workers.
How many work permit types are there in the UAE for domestic versus non‑domestic roles?
Within MoHRE’s system, there are 12 permit types for general establishment workers and special categories such as students, juveniles, freelancers and Golden Visa holders, plus one distinct domestic workers work permit for household roles. Non‑domestic roles use the establishment‑linked permits described in labour‑law Executive Regulations, while domestic roles rely on a separate legislative framework and dedicated MoHRE services. Employers should ensure they choose the correct stream because using an establishment permit for a clearly domestic role, or vice versa, does not meet regulatory requirements.
Explained by
Amira Ali Al Hammadi
Labour & Tasheel Services Consultant at EGSH
Amira Ali Al Hammadi is a specialised service provider with nine years of experience delivering MOHRE-related Labour and Tasheel services. Her professional expertise covers establishment and employee procedures, including renewals, cancellations, amendments, fine payments, employment contracts, and compliance support for companies of all sizes.
This article is intended to provide general information based on official UAE sources, and does not constitute personalised legal advice. Before acting, applicants should verify the current rules and fees directly with the relevant authority or an authorised service centre.
