Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time: Complete and Updated Guide | FBS Documents Blog
Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time: Complete and Updated Guide
Wondering how long a Dubai employment visa takes? This guide explains Dubai work visa processing time, stages, and expert tips to avoid delays.
Visa & Immigration
Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time: Complete and Updated Guide
29 November 2025Dubai employment visa processing time usually takes 7–15 working days. Learn step-by-step timeline, delays, and how to get your Dubai work visa faster.Team FBS Documents
Wondering how long a Dubai employment visa takes? This guide explains Dubai work visa processing time, stages, and expert tips to avoid delays.
You can plan your trip, the date of joining the job, and the finances with ease if you know the Dubai Employment Visa processing time.
This article will explain in plain language the Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time with examples from real life and practical tips.
What is a Dubai Employment Visa?
A Dubai Employment Visa allows foreign nationals to work and live in Dubai. This visa must be sponsored by an employer in Dubai before you can start a job.
Working in Dubai without this visa is illegal, even if you have a tourist or visit visa.
Average Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time
The total processing time Dubai Employment Visa in most cases is:
7-15 working days
This timeline may be shorter or more extended depending on the following:
Employer Type (mainland or Free Zone)
Document accuracy
Nationality of the applicant
Results of medical tests
Approvals from the Government
Break it down into stages to better understand.
Step‑by‑Step
Author:Team FBS DocumentsCategory: Visa & Immigration
Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time
Step 1: Job offer & MOHRE approval (1-3 working days)
Your employer will submit your information to the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation once you accept the offer of employment.
Time needed: Between 1 and 3 working days
Ali, a IT engineer, was approved by the MOHRE within 24 hours, because his documents had already been attested.
Step 2: Work Permit Approval (2–5 Working Days)
A UAE Work Permit will be issued after MOHRE approval. This permit allows your employer to continue with the visa process.
Time needed: Between 2 and 5 working days
If educational certificates are not present or attested incorrectly, delays can occur.
Step 3: Entry Permit Issuance (2–4 Working Days)
The entry visa, also known as the pink visa, allows you to enter Dubai legally for employment purposes.
Time needed: Between 2 and 4 working days
This step can be made faster if you already reside in the UAE.
Step 4: Medical Fitness Test (1–2 Working Days)
You must undergo a medical test in an approved medical facility after entering Dubai.
Time Required: 24-48 hours
The Dubai Employment Visa processing time can be increased if there is a medical condition.
Step 5: Emirates ID Biometrics (1 Working Day)
The Emirates ID collects your fingerprints, photos, and biometric information.
Time required: 1 working day
If appointments are available, this step can be done quickly.
Step 6: Visa Stamping on Passport (3–5 Working Days)
Final stage: stamping of the residence visa. This confirms your legal status to work in Dubai.
Time needed: Between 3 and 5 working days
After stamping, you are legally allowed to start working.
Total Timeline Summary
Visa Stage
Processing Time
MOHRE Approval
Within 1-3 Days
Work Permit
2-5 Days
Entry Permit
Two to four days
Medical Test
Two-day turnaround
Emirates ID
One day
Visa Stamping
3-5 Days
Total time
7-15 working days
Mainland vs Free Zone Processing Time
Mainland Dubai Employment Visa
MOHRE is usually the first step in processing.
Average time: 10-15 working days
Free Zone Employment Visa
Free zone authorities issue a statement
Average time: 7-10 working days
Due to their streamlined systems, visas are often processed faster in free zones.
Factors That Can Delay Dubai Employment Visa Processing Time
Some common reasons for delays are:
Documents that are incomplete or incorrect
Unattested education certificates
Medical fitness and health issues
Public Holidays in the UAE
Employer quota limitations
A small error can cause your visa to be delayed by several days.
Can the Dubai Employment Visa Be Processed Faster?
Yes. In some cases, urgent or fast-track processing may be possible.
How to accelerate the process
All documents must be ready for attestation.
Consult a professional visa consultant
Book VIP Medical Test Services
Avoid public holidays
Expert visa services are often chosen by professionals to avoid unnecessary delays.
Who Pays for the Dubai Employment Visa?
In accordance with UAE labor law, employers are responsible for all visa fees including medical tests and processing fees.
It is a warning sign if an employer wants you to pay.
Real‑Life Example
Sara, a graphic design, was offered a position by a Dubai-based marketing agency. Her Dubai Employment Visa could be completed within eight working days with the help of professional documentation. This allowed her to start work without any stress.
The following shows the direct impact of preparation on processing speed.
Final Thoughts
When handled correctly, the Dubai Employment Visa processing time can be quick and efficient. You can expect to have the process completed within 7-15 working days.
You can reduce stress and save time by using a trusted Dubai Employment Visa Service.
The first step to a rewarding and stable career in Dubai is a successful visa application.
