How to Switch Dubai Tourist Visa to Employment Visa?

To change a 3-month tourist visa to an employment visa in Dubai, you must follow a series of steps. Here’s a general outline of the process:

1. Obtain a Job Offer

• Before you can apply for an employment visa, you need to secure a job in Dubai. The employer must be willing to sponsor you for the visa.

2. Employer Applies for a Work Permit

• Your employer will need to apply for a work permit (also known as a labor card) from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The work permit is a prerequisite for applying for an employment visa.

• The employer will need to provide documents like your passport copy, educational qualifications, and other necessary documents.

3. Exit and Re-entry Option

• If you are on a tourist visa, in some cases, you may need to exit the country and return after the new employment visa is processed. This is known as an ""employment visa transfer"" or ""status change"" and can be done through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, though policies may change based on your situation.

• Some employers may be able to transfer your tourist visa directly to an employment visa without requiring an exit, but this will depend on your specific case and the discretion of the authorities.

4. Medical Testing and Emirates ID Application

• You’ll need to undergo a medical test in the UAE (a mandatory procedure for all foreign workers). Once this is complete, you'll be issued a certificate for health clearance.

• You will also need to apply for an Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).

5. Residence Visa Issuance

• After the work permit is granted and you’ve passed the medical test, your employer will apply for your residence visa. Once approved, you will receive a residence visa, which allows you to live and work in Dubai.

6. Visa Stamping

• Once the residence visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport, and you can begin working legally.

Important Notes:

• Ensure your tourist visa is valid during the application process. If it expires before the change is complete, you may be required to leave the country.

• Some changes in visa policies can occur, so it's important to verify with the UAE authorities or a legal consultant before proceeding.

For accurate and specific guidance, it is always a good idea to consult with the Dubai Immigration or the company you are working with.