UAE Golden Visa: Work Permit Requirements for Employers and Professionals

United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced the Golden Visa programme in May 2019, a long-term residency initiative aimed at attracting and retaining exceptional talent across various sectors. This was part of the UAE government’s broader efforts to enhance the country's appeal as a global hub for skilled professionals. Importantly, it allows visa holders to reside in the country without the need for a local sponsor, thereby providing greater flexibility and independence in both professional and personal matters.

The Golden Visa grants residency for a period of 10 years and it has opened exciting opportunities for long-term residency and the freedom to live, work and study in the UAE. While the programme offers flexibility, it is important to understand compliance requirements when it comes to employing Golden Visa holders.

Does the Golden Visa Automatically Allow the Holder to Work?

While the Golden Visa grants residency, it does not automatically authorise the holder to work.  This is a common misunderstanding that can lead to compliance issues for both individuals and employers. Without the correct work authorisation, both parties may be subject to serious penalties.              

Work Authorisation Options for Golden Visa Holders

 

To legally work in the UAE, Golden Visa holders must still obtain a labour permit or work contract through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or a non-sponsored work card through the relevant free zone authority. The following are the available options:

MOHRE Labour Cards

The Labour Card is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to private sector companies registered with the Ministry. It applies to employees of all nationalities and serves as official proof of legal employment in the UAE. In line with labour laws and regulations, it is mandatory for Golden Visa holders to also have a valid Labour Card. Labour Card must be issued by their employer, remains valid for two years with the option of renewal.

Non-Sponsored ID Cards (Free Zone Employment)

Golden Visa holders employed by companies within UAE free zones may obtain a non-sponsored ID card issued under the authority of the respective free zone. These cards generally remain valid for one to five years, depending on the issuing authority and the jurisdiction of the employer. Each free zone follows its own protocols and procedures for issuing such cards.

In Dubai, for example, the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) and the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) issue Permanent Identity Cards (PICs), both valid for one year and renewable. The Dubai Development Authority (DDA), on the other hand, issues non-sponsored ID cards with validity periods of one, two or five years, also renewable.

Penalties for Companies Not Securing Labour Cards for Golden Visa Holders

 

Even when an employee holds a valid Golden Visa, the company remains responsible for ensuring that employment is properly documented and approved by MOHRE or the relevant free zone authorities. Employers must not assume that a Golden Visa serves as an alternative to a labour card or contract.

Failure to secure the correct work authorization can lead to serious penalties, including MOHRE sanctions such as initial warnings and potential blacklisting of non-compliant companies. In line with Federal Decree-Law (9) of 2024, fines ranging from one hundred thousand (100,000) to one million (1,000,000) Dirhams may be imposed for employing a worker without a valid work permit. In addition, companies may face operational impacts, such as the suspension of their licenses or activities within the MOHRE system.

Cancellation of Work Authorisation

 

When their employment ends, the work permit must be formally cancelled by the employer to ensure compliance with UAE labour laws. Failure to cancel the permit properly may lead to regulatory or administrative issues.

Cancelling work authorisation in the UAE is a formal and regulated process that ensures both parties meet their legal obligations. It protects the rights of the employee and safeguards the employer from future liability. Non-cancellation of work permit can negatively affect the Wage Protection System (WPS) records, potentially causing compliance issues. For freezone companies the work permit quota is released once the work permit is officially cancelled, allowing the employer to allocate that quota to new employees.

How Fragomen Can Help

Managing the Golden Visa holders effectively is crucial for both employees and employers. For employees, it secures residency, career continuity and long-term benefits. For employers, it ensures compliance with UAE regulations, smooth workforce management and minimises delays or risks that could disrupt operations. It is important to ensure that the golden visa holders have necessary work authorisation to maintain lawful employment status in the UAE and to proactively cancel their work permit when their employment with the company ends.

The UAE Golden Visa brings tremendous benefits, but do not let compliance slip through the cracks. Understanding the distinction between residency and work authorisation is critical for both employers and visa holders.

Fragomen advises employers and professionals across the UAE on Golden Visa compliance, supports them in securing the correct work permits and ensures full alignment with the UAE’s evolving labour laws.

Need to Know More?

For more information on the Golden Visa and work permit compliance in the UAE, please contact Assistant Manager Charo Medida at [email protected].

This blog was published on 29 September 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.