1-Year Employment Visa Dubai Price | The Complete 2025 Guide

Dubai is continuously improving its position as a global centre of professionals and foreign nationals with a dynamic employment market and an excellent quality of life. People who desire to enjoy such opportunities should know about the charges and requirements of a 1-year employment visa. This visa is an entry pass to working and living in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, and we should therefore have a clear idea of how the process works so that we can organize our finances and logistical planning accordingly. Let’s explore the full guide on a 1-year employment visa in Dubai.

1. What is a 1-Year Employment Visa in Dubai?

A 1-year work visa is a valid authorization that foreigners apply for as a means of working and residing in the emirate of Dubai, and is valid for 12 months. It is obligatory to take expatriates who are recruited by the firms operating in Dubai, freelancers, and professional employees in various fields. More visas can last 2 years and 3 years, or even 10 years, like the UAE Golden Visa, but a 1-year visa is a good starting point into the labour market of the country.

2. Key Benefits of a 1-Year Employment Visa

• Permission to work and reside in Dubai for 12 months.
• Access to banks, medical care, power provisions, etc.
• Possibility to sponsor immediate family members (under the conditions of salaries and the company).
• Experience the vibrant mindset and work environment of Dubai.

3. Eligibility Criteria

• The minimum age requirement is 18 years old.
• A valid job offer by a Dubai-registered employer or a freelance license by an authorized free zone.
• Relevant educational and professional requirements (job-specific).
• Requirement of a medical test carried out in a UAE-approved institution.
• Security clearance and a 6-month passport.
• Employers should have a legal company license and be compliant with labour regulations in the UAE.

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4. Types of 1-Year Employment Visas

• Standard Employment Visa:  The most common is the Standard Employment Visa for employees in private, government, and free zone sectors.
• Freelance Permit/Residence Card: Freelance Visa Permits/Residence Cards cater to self-employed professionals.
• Special Categories: There are also Special Categories like short-term project visas and domestic worker visas.

5. Dubai 1-Year Employment Visa Price Breakdown (2025)

Fee Type	Typical Range (AED)	Notes/Details
Application Fee	300 – 750	Non-refundable; varies by category
Visa Processing Fee	750	Standard processing charge
Medical Examination	250 – 800	Mandatory health screening
Emirates ID	370 – 570	Biometric registration
Insurance Coverage	700+	Basic health insurance (varies)
Security Deposit	Up to 2,000	Often refundable; employer-paid
Typing/Translation Fees	100 – 300	If required for documents
Courier/Service Charges	Varies	For document delivery
Total Estimate	3,000 – 7,000	Employer usually covers most costs

Note: Costs may vary by company type, employee category, and whether the visa is processed via mainland or free zone authorities.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Job Offer & Sponsorship: Get a job or freelance opportunity that will be your sponsor for the visa process.
2. Work Permit Approval: Your employer goes to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or the related free zone authority for a work permit. What is approved is at the discretion of the quota and company eligibility.
3. Entry Permit Issuance: An entry permit for 60 days, which will allow you to enter Dubai for further processing.
4. Medical Examination: Go through the health screening at an approved UAE medical centre that includes tests for communicable diseases.
5. Emirates ID Registration: Submit biometric information and apply for your Emirates ID, the official identity card.
6. Visa Stamping & Residency Permit: The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) will process your visa, which will grant you legal residency for a year.

7. Required Documents Checklist

•  Required Documents Checklist

Document	Required For
Valid passport (6+ months)	All applicants
Job offer/contract or freelance permit	All applicants
Passport-sized photographs	All applicants
Educational/professional certificates (attested if required)	All applicants
Medical fitness certificate	All applicants
Police clearance certificate (if required)	Some applicants
Entry permit and Emirates ID application forms	All applicants
Health insurance proof	All applicants

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8. Factors Affecting Visa Price

Several factors can influence the final visa cost:

• Company Category: Some industries or companies that have lower Emiratization requirements may see higher fees.
• Employee Skill Level: Fees may differ based on the skill level of the employee, which may be high, semi-skilled, or unskilled.
• Free Zone vs. Mainland: Free trade zones, at times, present different fee structures, which may include everything.
• Age of Applicant: Employees over age 65 may see high premiums.
• Additional Services: Choosing accelerated processing or VIP services will increase the price

9. Renewal and Extension

1-year employment visas are usually extended annually as long as you are employed or have a valid freelance permit. We see that renewal fees are the same as the initial application fees. Also note that there are penalties for overstaying if you do not renew in time.

10. Latest Updates and 2025 Changes

The UAE is always improving its visa systems. In 2025, we may see the rollout of more digital solutions for application and renewal, which in turn should speed up approval processes. Also, we have seen the introduction of more rigorous eligibility criteria for certain professions and industries, which also include very strict health insurance and medical fitness requirements. Also, online platforms are playing a larger role in terms of tracking application status and uploading documents.

11. Common Challenges and Tips

To ensure a smooth visa process:

• For a seamless visa process, make sure to have all documents translated if required.
• Check your passport is valid and that you are in good health before you apply.
• Stay in touch with your HR or PRO for updates. Until your visa is fully approved, avoid.
• Prepare for delays in high season and when asked to present additional documents.

12. Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for the visa?

In most cases, the employer covers the cost for standard employment visas.13 Freelancers and self-sponsored applicants pay their fees.

Can I change jobs on a 1-year visa?

Yes, but you will have to go through MOHRE’s transfer process and get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your present employer.

Is health insurance mandatory?

Yes, valid health insurance is required for all employment visa holders.

What happens if my employment ends?

The visa is typically cancelled by the employer; a grace period is provided to find new employment or exit the UAE.

13. Opportunities and Outlook

The ongoing reforms in Dubai aim at inviting international skills and talents. The 1-year employment visa is a convenient measure that can be used by those who are keen on attempting careers in the UAE. The trend of the future shows more and more digitalization, whether and where one can work, and a wider range of remote workers and freelancers are allowed to do their job.

14. Conclusion

The Dubai 1-year employment visa is your passport to a satisfying business and personal life in the most vibrant cities of the world. Being knowledgeable about the process, thoroughly prepared, and keeping in touch with the information, you will manage to get through the process with ease.

Ready to explore your employment visa options in Dubai? Contact Arnifi today for seamless PRO services and expert guidance on your visa application.

How Arnifi Can Help

Arnifi is your trusted partner in securing the Dubai 1-Year Employment Visa. Our team will provide full support through all steps of the application procedure, preparing documentation, handling medical checks, Emirates ID registration, and the stamping of the visa itself. Whether one is an employee, freelancer, or employer, Arnifi gives personalized PRO services that will simplify approvals and prevent costly delays so one can start a Dubai career with full confidence.