Work Permits for Abu Dhabi

In order to legally work in Abu Dhabi, expats will need to obtain a work permit; only, it’s not known by this name, it’s rather called a residence visa -sponsorship for employment.

As the title indicates, it’s necessary to have an employer sponsor you by offering you a job contract and by applying with the appropriate authorities for your visa.

 For the most part, the hiring company assumes the responsibility of completing most of the paperwork and braving the bureaucracy that comes with it. That said, it never hurts to familiarise yourself with the process, and take note of the documents you must submit to help them on their way.

Steps to getting your work permit in Abu Dhabi

After finding a job and successfully negotiating your job contract, by far the hardest part of the process, you must provide your employer with the requested, notarised paperwork that they can use to support the application process.

Generally, companies are familiar with this process and will provide you with a clear list of the documents you must gather.
Eventually, you will be issued with an entry permit, which allows you to come to Abu Dhabi and the greater UAE.

Upon arrival you must complete and pass a medical exam, and submit the results to your employer. They will finish the application process with this information, and you will be issued with a labour card; the official document that gives you the right to work in Abu Dhabi.

Labour cards are good for three years.