UAE Work Visa for Indians & Pakistanis — Complete 2026 Guide

The UAE is home to over 3 million Indians and 1.5 million Pakistanis — making it one of the most popular destinations for South Asian professionals. This guide covers everything about UAE work visas in 2026.

Types of UAE Work Visas

• Employment Visa: Standard work visa sponsored by UAE employer
• Mission Visa: For short-term project work sponsored by employer
• Freelance Permit: Work independently without employer sponsorship
• Golden Visa: 10-year residence for investors, skilled professionals, and outstanding talents

Standard Employment Visa Process

1. Receive job offer from UAE employer — they initiate the visa process
2. Employer submits visa application to MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources)
3. You receive entry permit — valid 60 days
4. Enter UAE on entry permit
5. Complete medical fitness test in UAE
6. Apply for Emirates ID
7. Receive residence visa stamped in passport

Documents Required

• Valid passport — minimum 6 months validity
• Passport-size photos on white background
• Educational certificates — attested by UAE embassy in your home country
• Experience certificates from previous employers
• Medical fitness certificate from approved clinic

Document Attestation

This is the step most people miss. Your educational degrees must be:

1. Attested by the relevant authority in your home country (HEC in Pakistan, relevant board in India)
2. Attested by your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
3. Attested by the UAE Embassy in your country
4. Attested by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs after arrival

UAE Golden Visa — Who Qualifies

• Investors with UAE real estate worth AED 2 million+
• Entrepreneurs with approved startup
• Specialized talents — doctors, engineers, scientists, artists
• Outstanding students with GPA 3.8+
• Humanitarian workers

⚠️ For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Always verify with official government sources. ApproveMyVisa is not a law firm.