Want to find a job in Dubai? Here’s how to apply for the jobseeker visa

If you’re planning to move to Dubai for work, you can now apply for a special visit visa for jobseekers. This visa allows you to stay in the UAE for 60, 90, or 120 days to explore employment opportunities — without the need for a UAE-based sponsor.

Introduced in April 2022 as part of the UAE’s updated visa system, the Job Exploration Entry Visa is designed to attract young talent and skilled professionals to the country.

What is the UAE Jobseeker Visa?

The jobseeker visa was launched under the UAE Cabinet’s new visa framework in 2022. It provides an opportunity for qualified professionals and fresh graduates to search for jobs in the UAE before securing employment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Professional Level – Must be a skilled worker in the first, second, or third professional level of the occupational classification approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
• Education – Must hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). Graduates from one of the world’s top 500 universities (as classified by the UAE Ministry of Education) are also eligible.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted online through the GDRFA-Dubai website: gdrfad.gov.ae/en.

Steps to apply:

1. Scroll down to the option “Issuing a visit visa to explore job opportunities.”
2. Click “Access the service.”
3. Create an account with your personal details (name, email, nationality, date of birth, passport info) or log in via UAE Pass.
4. Fill out the application form and upload required documents.
5. Pay the applicable visa fees.
6. After payment, you will receive a transaction number to track your application.

Required Documents

Applicants must upload the following:

• Recent personal photograph
• Copy of a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• University degree

Visa Fees

The fee depends on the duration of stay:

• 60-day visa: Dh200
• 90-day visa: Dh300
• 120-day visa: Dh400

VAT (5%) applies to all options.

Additional costs:

• Refundable security deposit: Dh1,000
• Warranty service fee: Dh20
• Collection and return of guarantee: Dh40

If applying inside the UAE, extra charges apply:

• Knowledge Dirham: Dh10
• Innovation Dirham: Dh10
• In-country application fee: Dh500

⚠️ The final cost may vary depending on your application circumstances.

Important Reminder

This information is for guidance only. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, contact the official authorities:

• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai): 800 5111
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security: 600 522222