The 13 official UAE Work Permits: Complete details on eligibility, requirements, explained

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The UAE offers 13 distinct work permits, each with specific eligibility, validity, and application requirements/Representative Image

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) offers 13 distinct types of work permits to accommodate a wide range of employment needs. From full-time and part-time work to freelance and training roles, these permits ensure legal employment within the country.

This article breaks down the different types of permits, their eligibility criteria, and the procedures for application, renewal, and cancellation.

Complete list of MoHRE Work Permits in the UAE

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) currently issues 13 categories of work permits, tailored to the employment type, worker's residency status, and the nature of work. These are available only to registered establishments and are subject to regulations.Below is the full breakdown:1. Recruitment from Outside the UAE

For hiring a worker from abroad.
Valid for 2 years.
Issued under specific regulations.

2. Transfer Between Establishments

For transferring a non-UAE national from one registered employer to another.
Valid for 2 years.

3. Family Sponsorship Work Permit

For hiring residents already under family sponsorship inside the UAE.
Valid for 2 years.

4. Temporary Work Permit

For assigning a worker (already in the UAE) to temporarily work at another company.
The worker returns to the original employer after task completion.

5. Mission Work Permit

For bringing in a worker from outside the UAE for a specific project or temporary job.

6. Part-Time Work Permit

For hiring workers (from within or outside the UAE) on a part-time basis.
Allows workers to hold multiple part-time jobs after MoHRE approval.

7. Juvenile Work Permit

For hiring individuals aged 15 to 18 years.
Subject to strict conditions ensuring a safe work environment.
Valid for 1 year.

8. Student Training and Employment Permit

For employing students aged 15+ already residing in the UAE.
Aimed at training or short-term employment.
Valid for 3 months.

9. UAE/GCC National Work Permit

For hiring UAE or GCC citizens.
Valid for 2 years.

10. Golden Visa Holder Work Permit

For hiring individuals who hold a UAE Golden Residency Visa.
Valid for 2 years.

11. National Trainee Work Permit

For training UAE nationals based on their academic qualifications.
Issued to companies registered with MoHRE.
Valid for 12 months, renewable upon mutual agreement.

12. Freelance Work Permit

For individuals working independently without company sponsorship.
Includes self-sponsored foreign nationals.
Allows income from projects or services without a traditional employment contract.

13. Private Teacher Work Permit

This category exists officially but is not covered in this article.

Eligibility and conditions for issuing a Work Permit

Before applying, both the employer and the worker must meet certain conditions.Worker requirements:

Must be at least 18 years old
- Exceptions: Juvenile and student permits
Must have qualifications or licensing (if required for the profession)
Job role must match the establishment’s business activity

Employer requirements:

Valid trade license with no violations
Must be compliant with UAE labour regulations, including the:
- Wages Protection System (WPS)
- Any other regulatory frameworks
Permit application must be submitted by a legally authorized company representative

MoHRE may refuse, suspend, or cancel work permits if:

The company submits false documentation
The business is non-operational or fictitious
The employer is non-compliant with labour laws

Work Permit procedures: Application, renewal, and cancellation

Understanding the official process helps ensure compliance and avoid penalties. Here are the steps for each phase of the work permit lifecycle:A. Applying for a Work Permit

Submit a complete application via MoHRE channels
Ensure all criteria (age, licensing, role match) are met
Application must be submitted by the authorized representative

B. Renewing a Work Permit

All issuance conditions must still be satisfied
Submit updated documents and qualifications
Pay the relevant fee (varies by permit type and company classification under MoHRE)

C. Cancelling a Work Permit