The UAE offers a unique opportunity for professionals worldwide with its Job Seeker Visa, allowing individuals to enter the country without requiring a host or sponsor. This visa enables foreigners to explore employment opportunities in the UAE for a specific period. Here’s everything you need to know about the Job Seeker Visa, including eligibility, the application process, and professional job levels.
What is the Job Seeker Visa?
The Job Seeker Visa is a temporary visit visa designed for foreign nationals to enter the UAE and search for employment. It is available for single trips and comes with three validity options:
- 60 days
- 90 days
- 120 days
This visa eliminates the need for a host or sponsor, making it easier for skilled professionals to access the UAE job market legally and conveniently.
Eligibility for the Job Seeker Visa
Applicants for the Job Seeker Visa must meet the following criteria:
- Professional Skill Level:
- The applicant must belong to one of the first, second, or third skill levels as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) classification. These include:
- Level 1: Legislators, managers, and business executives.
- Level 2: Professionals in scientific, technical, and human fields.
- Level 3: Technicians in scientific, technical, and humanitarian fields.
- The applicant must belong to one of the first, second, or third skill levels as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) classification. These include:
- Education:
- The applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- Graduates from the top 500 universities in the world (as per the Ministry of Education’s classification) are also eligible, provided they graduated within the last two years.
- Financial Guarantee:
- Applicants must meet the prescribed financial guarantee requirements to ensure they can support themselves during their stay in the UAE.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents for the Job Seeker Visa:
- A coloured passport-sized photograph.
- A copy of the applicant’s passport (valid for at least six months).
- Attested qualification certificates (e.g., bachelor’s degree or equivalent).
Professional Levels of Jobs in the UAE
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) classifies jobs into 9 professional levels based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organization. Here’s an overview of the levels:
- Level 1: Legislators, managers, and business executives.
- Level 2: Professionals in scientific, technical, and human fields.
- Level 3: Technicians in scientific, technical, and humanitarian fields.
- Level 4: Writing professionals.
- Level 5: Service and sales occupations.
- Level 6: Skilled workers in agriculture, fisheries, and animal husbandry.
- Level 7: Craftsmen in construction, mining, and other crafts.
- Level 8: Operators and assemblers of machinery and equipment.
- Level 9: Simple professions.
Skilled Work Classification:
Labour is considered skilled work if the following conditions are fulfilled:
- The worker falls into levels 1 to 5 of MoHRE’s classification.
- The worker holds a certificate higher than a secondary education certificate, duly attested by the relevant authorities.
- The worker’s monthly salary (excluding commissions) is not less than AED 4,000.
How to Apply for the Job Seeker Visa
Follow these steps to apply for the Job Seeker Visa:
- Prepare the Required Documents:
- Gather the required documents, including your photo, passport, and attested degree certificate.
- Submit Your Application:
- Pay the Fees:
- Visa fees vary based on the validity period:
- 60 days: AED 1,495
- 90 days: AED 1,655
- 120 days: AED 1,815
- Visa fees vary based on the validity period:
- Processing Time:
- The application typically takes 5-7 business days for processing.
- Receive the Visa:
- Once approved, your visa will be emailed to you. You can then travel to the UAE to start your job search.
Benefits of the Job Seeker Visa
- No Sponsor Required:
The visa allows independent entry into the UAE without needing a host or employer sponsorship. - Multiple Validity Options:
Choose from three durations: 60, 90, or 120 days, giving you flexibility based on your job search needs. - Legal Entry for Job Hunting:
It provides a legitimate way to explore employment opportunities in the UAE. - Smooth Transition to Work Visa:
Once you secure a job, you can easily transition from a Job Seeker Visa to a Work Visa or Residency Permit.
Related Online Services
The following online services are available for applying for the Job Seeker Visa:
- Issue Search for Job Visa – 60 Days (Single Entry): ICP
- Issue Search for Job Visa – 90 Days (Single Entry): ICP
- Issue Search for Job Visa – 120 Days (Single Entry): ICP
Visit the respective platforms for more details and to apply.
Conclusion
The Job Seeker Visa UAE 2025 is a golden opportunity for skilled professionals to explore the UAE’s thriving job market. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the outlined application process, you can unlock career opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. Ensure your documents are in order and start your journey toward a successful future in the UAE.
For more information, visit the official government portals or consult with UAE visa experts.