Post-Study Work Visa in Dubai

Making the leap from student life to the working world in the UAE, particularly after earning an MBA in Dubai, can really transform your career outlook. Once you finish your studies, you'll need to step out of the student zone and secure an employment visa to work legally. Luckily, the UAE offers solid post-study work options that can help you get started.

As of 2024, the UAE has rolled out the "Post-Graduate Work Permit," which lets you stay and work in the country for up to two years after graduation. This visa is a great opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience. In Dubai's vibrant job market, especially in areas like finance, technology, and hospitality, you'll find plenty of opportunities.

Find out the updates over the years regarding the Post-Study Work Opportunities in Dubai:

• 2024: Launch of the Post-Graduate Work Permit

  Dubai has rolled out the new "Post-Graduate Work Permit," allowing graduates to stay and work in the UAE for up to two years after they finish their studies. This new visa is designed to attract and keep talented professionals by giving them plenty of time to find the right job.

• 2023: More Flexibility for Employment Visas

  The UAE government made it easier for graduates to apply for employment visas, now giving them up to six months post-graduation to find a job. This change helps smoothen the transition from student life to the professional world.

• 2022: Longer Job Search Period

  The job search period for graduates was extended from 90 days to 180 days. This gives international students more time to secure a job before their student visa expires, reducing the pressure of job hunting right after graduation.

• 2021: Golden Visa for Top Graduates

  The UAE introduced the Golden Visa for exceptional graduates from leading global universities. This long-term residency visa rewards top academic performers and offers a pathway to permanent residency.

In the UAE, there are several types of work visas, each designed to fit different job situations and timeframes. The Employment Visa, usually sponsored by an employer, is ideal for long-term roles, while the Freelance Visa is perfect for independent workers and contractors.

Post-Graduate Work Permit

• Description: This permit allows graduates to stay and work in Dubai for up to two years after completing their studies.
• Eligibility: Graduates of recognised universities, with a degree relevant to the job they are seeking.
• Documents Required:
  • Degree certificate
  • Transcript
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of graduation
  • Job offer or employment contract (if applicable)

Employment Visa

• Description: Sponsored by employers for full-time positions, this visa allows you to work with a specific company.
• Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a UAE-based employer.
• Documents Required:
  • Employment contract
  • Degree certificate
  • Passport copy
  • Recent photograph
  • Medical fitness certificate

Freelance Visa

• Description: Designed for independent contractors and self-employed professionals, this visa enables you to work on a freelance basis.
• Eligibility: Individuals with a freelance contract or proof of freelance work.
• Documents Required:
  • Freelance contract
  • Degree certificate
  • Proof of previous work or client contracts
  • Passport copy

Golden Visa for Graduates

• Description: A long-term residency visa awarded to exceptional graduates from top global universities, offering a pathway to permanent residency.
• Eligibility: Graduates with outstanding academic achievements from internationally recognised institutions.
• Documents Required:
  • Degree certificate
  • Academic transcript
  • Proof of exceptional academic performance
  • Passport copy

Here is the process to apply for work permit after study in Dubai

• Obtain a Job Offer: Secure a valid job offer letter from a UAE-based company. The employer will initiate the employment visa application on your behalf.
• Visa Application Submission: Wait for your employer to submit the necessary visa application documents and pay the visa fee.
• Complete Medical and Documentation: Undergo a medical examination and gather required documents, including passport copies, passport-size photos, and the job offer letter. Submit these to the Department of Health and Medical Services to obtain a UAE health card.
• Submit Documents to Ministry of Labor: Once you have your UAE health card, provide all documents to the UAE Ministry of Labor to complete the employment visa process.
• Apply for a Residence Visa: For long-term work, apply for a residence visa. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before entry.

Following these steps will help you transition smoothly from student to professional life in Dubai.

Here are the requirements to apply for a post study work permit in Dubai

• Valid Job Offer: Must have a confirmed job offer from a UAE-based company.
• Degree Requirements: Generally, a relevant degree from a recognised institution is needed; specific industries may require more specialised qualifications.
• Employer Sponsorship: The employer must sponsor the employment visa, and they will handle the application process and fees.
• Medical Examination: Complete a medical exam from an approved health facility in Dubai.
• Health Card: Obtain a UAE health card from the Department of Health and Medical Services.
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Documents: Submit the following:
  • Job offer letter
  • Passport copies
  • Passport-size photos
  • Medical examination report
  • Completed visa application form
• Industry-Specific Conditions: Some fields, like healthcare or education, might have additional requirements, such as professional certifications or specific licensing.

Getting a post-study Dubai work permit comes with a set of rules that help you make a smooth shift from student life to the professional world. Knowing these requirements is vital for international graduates who want to turn their academic success into real career opportunities in the UAE.

• Valid Job Offer: Must have an employment offer from a registered UAE company.
• Degree from Recognised Institution: The degree must be from an accredited educational institution, with industry-specific qualifications where applicable.
• Employer Sponsorship: The visa application must be sponsored by the employer; they handle the application process and fees.
• Health Requirements: Complete a medical examination from an approved health facility in Dubai and obtain a UAE health card.
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Application Timeliness: Apply for the visa within six months of graduation to avoid delays or complications.
• Industry-Specific Certifications: Some industries, such as healthcare or engineering, may require additional certifications or licences specific to those fields.
• Document Submission: Provide all required documents including job offer letter, passport copies, passport-size photos, medical exam report, and completed visa application form.
• Compliance with Labour Laws: Adhere to UAE’s labour laws and regulations throughout the visa application process and during employment.

The validity of the post-study work permit in Dubai typically lasts for up to two years, providing ample time for graduates to secure employment. If you need more time, extensions are possible, but they depend on your current employment status and the specific type of work visa you hold.

To transition to other visa types, such as an employment visa or a residency permit, you'll need to secure a full-time job and meet additional requirements set by the UAE immigration authorities.

• Green Visa: Valid for up to 5 years, this visa is designed for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors, offering a longer stay for those contributing significantly to the economy.
• Standard Work Visa: Typically valid for 2 years, this visa is the most common type, issued to employees by their sponsoring employers for standard employment purposes.
• Golden Visa: Available for either 5 or 10 years, this long-term residency visa is aimed at investors, exceptional talents, and highly skilled professionals, providing extended stay opportunities for significant contributions to the UAE.

The Post-Study Work Visa in Dubai offers international graduates a valuable opportunity to transition from academic to professional life in the UAE. This visa allows graduates to stay and work in Dubai for up to two years, giving them ample time to secure employment and gain practical experience in their field.

Ready to turn your international education into a successful career in Dubai? AECC is here to guide you through every step of securing your Post-Study Work Visa, ensuring a smooth transition from student to professional life. Contact us today to explore your options, get expert advice, and start your journey towards a rewarding career in one of the world's most dynamic cities.