United Arab Emirates: Immigration Rule Changes in Dubai International Financial Center Free Zone
April 25, 2024
Effective immediately, the Dubai International Financial Center Free Zone (DIFC) has reduced the maximum validity period for a non-sponsored employment permit to two years, down from three years, possibly to align with the duration of the employment residence permit. This will result in the employers of foreign nationals having to renew their employees’ work permits more often, increasing costs. Additionally, the DIFC implemented new services aimed at simplifying and enhancing immigration application procedures. First, employees on a standard employment residence permit who have been outside the United Arab Emirates for more than six months for valid reasons, such as medical or educational purposes, can now have their employer submit an online application on their behalf for a re-entry certificate to facilitate their return to the country, provided that their employment residence permit has not expired. Previously, this option was not available and employers were required to cancel their employee’s employment residence permit and then apply for a new work permit if the employee was outside the United Arab Emirates for more than six months. Additionally, UAE residence permit applicants seeking to update personal information on an already issued employment entry permit can now have it amended; previously, this was not available and such applicants were required to have their employment permit canceled before their employer could apply for a new permit on their behalf, creating a lengthier process and increasing costs.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Media mentions
UK Managing Partner Nadine Goldfoot reflects on how the UK’s immigration system might adapt to better support business and short-term mobility.
Awards
Negocios Now names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to its NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 list.
Video
Learn the key requirements for digital nomad visas and find out which countries you can apply to as a remote worker or freelancer.
Media mentions
Practice Leader Olga Nechita provides practical guidance on navigating UK immigration routes, settlement options and key considerations for applicants.
Video
Senior Business Immigration Consultant Missy Mae Makil discusses the new DOLE rules for employing foreign nationals in the Philippines.
Media mentions
UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit examines how the UK’s new Immigration White Paper could affect talent mobility and growth in the life sciences sector.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses recent changes in Saudi Arabia's commercial regulations, their impact on international businesses and how they support Vision 2030.
Awards
Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries received the “Partnership with an International Charity” award at the 10th Annual Better Society Awards.
Blog post
Corporate Services Director Elena Caron outlines essential information and updates regarding obtaining a freelance licence in the UAE, highlighting key requirements and benefits for freelancers.
Media mentions
Partner Rajiv Naik discussed how UK employers can prepare for immigration reforms by reviewing policies and aligning mobility with workforce planning.
Blog post
UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit discusses how the UK’s Immigration White Paper presents both challenges and opportunities, highlighting the need for a system reset to address immigration issues effectively.
Media mentions
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how Luxembourg’s clear immigration system and strategic reforms attract global talent and employers.
Media mentions
UK Managing Partner Nadine Goldfoot reflects on how the UK’s immigration system might adapt to better support business and short-term mobility.
Awards
Negocios Now names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to its NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 list.
Video
Learn the key requirements for digital nomad visas and find out which countries you can apply to as a remote worker or freelancer.
Media mentions
Practice Leader Olga Nechita provides practical guidance on navigating UK immigration routes, settlement options and key considerations for applicants.
Video
Senior Business Immigration Consultant Missy Mae Makil discusses the new DOLE rules for employing foreign nationals in the Philippines.
Media mentions
UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit examines how the UK’s new Immigration White Paper could affect talent mobility and growth in the life sciences sector.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses recent changes in Saudi Arabia's commercial regulations, their impact on international businesses and how they support Vision 2030.
Awards
Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries received the “Partnership with an International Charity” award at the 10th Annual Better Society Awards.
Blog post
Corporate Services Director Elena Caron outlines essential information and updates regarding obtaining a freelance licence in the UAE, highlighting key requirements and benefits for freelancers.
Media mentions
Partner Rajiv Naik discussed how UK employers can prepare for immigration reforms by reviewing policies and aligning mobility with workforce planning.
Blog post
UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit discusses how the UK’s Immigration White Paper presents both challenges and opportunities, highlighting the need for a system reset to address immigration issues effectively.
Media mentions
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how Luxembourg’s clear immigration system and strategic reforms attract global talent and employers.