Job-seeker visa

Who can apply

Articles 20 and 21 of Cabinet Resolution 65 of 2022, the executive regulation of Decree-Law 29 of 2021 on entry and residence, set the conditions:[source]

• an experienced worker at the first, second or third professional level of MoHRE's classification of professions, or
• a graduate of one of the best 500 universities in the world, by the ranking the Ministry of Education approves, with no more than two years since graduating;
• in both cases, at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.

Whether you meet these is decided by ICP or GDRFA when you apply. Check the official page before paying anyone: u.ae: job-seeker visit visa.

How long it lasts: not yet verified

Visa lengths of 60, 90 or 120 days are widely reported. They are not in the regulation text, and we have not yet read them on an official ICP or GDRFA page. The same goes for the fees and any financial guarantee amount. This page will give the figures once they are verified.

If you find a job

The regulation allows an entry visa to be "converted into Residence Permit without the need to leave the State after paying the prescribed fee".[source] Whether that route is open from your job-seeker visa is for ICP or GDRFA to confirm. Your employer then applies for the work permit and residence; see visa routes.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The eligibility rules come from a federal regulation, so they are the same in both emirates. We found no Dubai or Abu Dhabi variation.