The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will introduce a new visit visa category effective June 30, 2025. This visa will enable skilled professionals to enter the country without requiring an employer sponsor.

This new visa reflects the UAE government’s broader strategy to enhance labor market flexibility and attract global talent across key sectors.

Under the updated policy, the Visit Visa for Work Purposes will allow individuals to engage in short-term job assignments or explore employment opportunities for up to 120 days. This marks a significant shift from the current visit and job seeker visa frameworks, which previously restricted work-related activities.

Background and Visa Details

The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) confirmed that the visa will be available in three single-entry durations: 60, 90, and 120 days. Crucially, applicants can obtain the visa without local sponsorship or a confirmed job offer.

The visa primarily targets freelancers, independent contractors, recent graduates, and skilled professionals seeking temporary work or employment prospects in the UAE.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Hold qualifications at skill levels 1 to 3, as defined by the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)

• Possess a bachelor’s degree or higher

• Be a recent graduate (within the last two years) from one of the world’s top 500 universities

• Provide proof of sufficient financial means to cover their stay

This policy ensures that visa holders maintain professional and academic standards while demonstrating financial self-sufficiency.

Visa Fees and Application Process

The base application fee varies by visa duration. Additionally, all applicants must pay a refundable security deposit of AED 1,000. The fees break down as follows:

• 60-day visa: AED 200 plus service and government fees

• 90-day visa: AED 300 plus AED 80–100 in fees

• 120-day visa: AED 400 plus AED 100–120 in fees

Applicants applying from within the UAE will pay an additional AED 500 processing fee.

Applicants can submit their applications through several channels:

• Online: Via the UAE’s official smart services portal

• Customer Happiness Centres: Walk-in applications accepted nationwide

• Amer Service Centres (Dubai only): For in-person application and processing

Applicants need to provide identification, proof of educational or professional qualifications, and evidence of financial means.

Strategic Importance

The introduction of this visa aligns closely with the UAE’s broader economic vision to diversify its workforce, encourage innovation, and support emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, and technology. Furthermore, it reinforces the UAE’s position as a regional hub for freelancers and project-based professionals.

Officials expect this new visa to boost private sector growth and advance the country’s long-term economic goals by facilitating talent mobility and simplifying access for skilled individuals.