The United Arab Emirates has updated the requirements for foreigners who want to enter the country on a jobseeker visa without having a host or sponsor.
Under the updated rules, eligible applicants can obtain a single-entry visa for 60, 90 or 120 days to search for employment opportunities in the UAE.
The UAE Government announced the revised requirements in a notice published on Thursday.
Visa Does Not Permit Employment
The jobseeker visa is designed for foreigners who want to travel to the UAE to explore employment opportunities before securing a job.
However, holders of the visa are not permitted to start working simply because they have entered the country.
Anyone who secures employment must obtain the appropriate work visa or permit before commencing work.
Who Can Apply?
The UAE Government said applicants must satisfy specific professional or educational conditions.
One route is available to individuals classified within the first, second or third skill levels under the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s classification system.
Another option is available to graduates of universities ranked among the world’s top 500 institutions under the classification approved by the UAE Ministry of Education.
Applicants using the university qualification route must have graduated within the preceding two years.
The government also requires applicants to possess a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
Documents and Financial Requirements
In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants must satisfy the required financial guarantee.
The application also requires several documents, including:
- A recent coloured photograph
- A copy of the applicant’s passport
- An attested educational qualification certificate
Applications can be submitted through the appropriate online services operated by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
The updated rules provide qualified foreign jobseekers with an opportunity to enter the UAE specifically to explore employment prospects without first obtaining a sponsor.
