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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 11

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How to get a visit visa to the UAE?

Tourism is a big part of the UAE’s economy, with the industry expected to boom to Dh116.1 billion by 2027.  Here is a breakdown of all that you need to know about the regulations and costs related to visit visas.  There is a slight difference between tourist visas and visit visas, wherein a visit visa can later be converted (before expiry) into an employment visa or a residence visa without the need to exit the country upon payment of a fee.

 

Visit Visa:

Can be of 30 days or 90 days with two extensions possible of a maximum of 90 days each. Visit visas can be broken down into the following categories:

  • 30-day single entry visa
  • 30-day multiple entry visa
  • 90-day single entry visa
  • 90-day multiple entry visa

There are also options available for two-days, four-days or 14-days visa but they are considered transit or service/business visas and have different regulations around them.

 

To apply for a visit visa, you need to provide the following documents:

  • Completed application form.
  • Passport-sized photograph with a white background.
  • Passport copy, with the passport valid for at least six months at the time of travel.

 

It is advisable to also have other official documents with you in case you are travelling with family members.  You may be asked to submit your marriage certificate if you are travelling with your spouse, birth certificates of your children, if they are travelling with you as well as your parents’ documents showing proof of relationship, if they are above 60.

 

A tourist/visit visa can be applied for by any of the following UAE-based agencies:

  • Airline
  • Hotel
  • Travel agency
  • Individuals

 

What is the process?

There are certain requirements for each of these organisations if you would like to apply for a visa through them. UAE-based airlines – Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and FlyDubai – offer tourist visa services.  Airlines or hotels would require you to book your travel or stay with them in order for them to process your visit visa.

 

If you are booking with a travel agent, you would need to book the tour package with the agency. However, always check whether the travel agencies are registered before sending them your official travel and identification documents. You can do so by contacting the UAE embassy in your country.

 

If a trusted friend or family member lives in the UAE, he or she can also apply for your tourist visa through any of the approved platforms:

  • The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA)
  • General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
  • Mobile apps
    • GDRFA Dubai’s mobile app – available on Apple and Android
    • DubaiNow – available on Apple and Android
  • Typing centres
  • Amer centres in Dubai

 

It is important to note that the cost of the visa can vary based on which agency you have approached and which emirate you are applying from.

For residents applying for a visit visa for a family member or a friend, they may also need to make a deposit.  You could also get a discount on the visa from agencies if you are making a group booking. Find out more by speaking to people and agencies before you make the final decision. The cost for visit visa and tourist visa are different.

 

These are the costs for the visit visa, if you apply through Amer centres:

  • 30-day single entry visa – Dh393
  • 30-day multiple entry visa -Dh653
  • 90-day single entry visa – Dh793
  • 90-day multiple entry visa – Dh1,653

 

These are the costs for a tourist visa, if you apply through Amer centres:

  • 30-day single entry visa – Dh253
  • 30-day multiple entry visa -Dh553
  • 90-day single entry visa – Dh603
  • 90-day multiple entry visa – Dh1,553

 

However, applying through Amer centres requires a security deposit which is refunded when the sponsored exit the country.

 

Do I need to carry the visa copy with me?

With the automation drive in the UAE, visas are now issued online and at the immigration, you should be able to go through based on the e-visa associated with your passport. However, it is always advisable to carry a copy of all necessary documents while travelling.

 

Can I extend my visa?

All types of visit and tourist visas can be extended for 30 days twice, upon renewal without the need to leave the country:

  • To renew your visa for 30 days, you would need to pay approximately Dh1,450
  • To extend your visa for 90 days, you would need to pay approximately Dh2,000

 

This cost, too, can vary based on your agent and the emirate you are applying from. If you overstay your visa, you will have to pay a fine of Dh100 for each day of the overstay, calculated from 10 days after the visa expiry.  However, the new rule for extension does not apply on the following categories:

  • visitors and tourists who are residents in GCC countries
  • residents accompanying GCC nationals
  • those on special entry permits
  • those on 96-hour permit for special missions.
  • Visa on arrival

 

Nationals from 59 countries can get visa on arrival in the UAE. The list of the countries can be found here.  However, the duration of the visa as well as provision of extension can vary based on which country you are from.

  • a visit visa issued by the USA or
  • a green card issued by the USA or
  • a residence visa issued by the UK or
  • a residence visa issued by the EU

They can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 14 days provided that the visas or the green card is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival into the UAE.

 

Should I get travel insurance?

It is always recommended that you get travel insurance when visiting a country. While the amount might seem like a lot, it protects tourists and visitors from extreme expenses in case of medical emergencies.

Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

Types of Visa in the UAE. Moving to Dubai

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 10

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How to apply for your family's visa in the UAE?

Let’s start with Dubai.

 

Dubai

Whether your family is already in the country on a visit visa or in another country, here is a step-by-step process of all you need to know and do to apply for their visa.

 

The visa process is managed by Amer services, by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).  Once your Dubai employment visa is stamped, make sure you have the following documents and certificates:

 

Step 1 – Required Documents:

  • For sponsoring your spouse you require your marriage certificate attested by your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • For sponsoring your children, original birth certificates of children attested by the relevant authorities.
  • Copy of valid passport of family members – The passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months.
  • Passport-sized photograph. NOTE: For visa and Emirates ID applications, the photograph needs to be taken on a white background, with ears, forehead to chin completely visible.
  • A copy of your registered tenancy contract.

For applicants who were already residents of the UAE and are simply changing jobs, it is important to keep old Emirates IDs that were issued to your family members as well.

 

Step 2 – Visit An Amer Centre:

Once you have all the documents in place, visit an Amer service centre with your (sponsor’s) original Emirates ID.  Branches of the Amer service centres can be found across the emirate, with many shopping malls also having centres that provide all the necessary information.

 

You can also access the services online via www.amer247.com, which is run by a semi-government organisation, providing services related to visa, Emirates ID and medical testing applications.  There is also an app for ‘Amer GDRFAD’ on Apple appstore and the Google Playstore.  If you have any questions related to Amer services, you can call the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs on 8005111.

 

Once the process is initiated by Amer services, it takes 48 hours to receive an e-visa, which will be sent to your registered email address.  Once the e-visa has been processed, there are three ways in which you can apply for your family’s residence visa.  

 

If your family is not in the country, the normal e-visa will be issued and your family can enter the country on the e-visa.  If they are already in the country, either on a visit visa or an old residence visa, you will need to exit the country and enter it using the e-visa.  Alternatively, you could place a request at the Amer centre for change of visa without exit.

 

Charges:

  • File opening charges – Dh269.
  • Normal e-visa (when the family is outside the UAE) – Dh500 entry permit.
  • If your family is in the country, entry permit is for Dh1,170 for each member you are sponsoring.
  • If you choose the third option, you will need to pay an additional fee of Dh670 per person for ‘change of status’.

Step 3 – Submit To A Medical Test:

When requesting the medical test application at the Amer centre, advise which Dubai Health Authority (DHA) medical fitness centre is closest to your home, or most convenient for you to visit as this will be mentioned in the application.  Take the application to the DHA health centre, where you will need to first get your blood test and x-ray done. Applicants are tested for HIV, tuberculosis, Hepatits B and in some occupations syphilis.

 

Charges:

  • Regular application – Dh320 (where the medical test results come within five working days).
  • Urgent – Dh410 (where the medical test results come within 48 hours).
  • VIP – Dh750 (where the medical test results come within four hours).

Once the medical test results are in, you will be notified via email on your registered email address.  For any medical test related queries, you can call the Dubai Health Authority on 800 342

 

Step 4 – Get the Emirates ID:

Take the Emirates ID application, which was typed at the Amer centre, to a Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship centre.

 

Take the following documents with you:

  • Emirates ID application of the family members.
  • Your original Emirates ID.
  • Photograph of your family members.

If you have never had your Emirates ID made, you will need to provide biometric data like your finger print and an iris scan. This is only applicable for people 18 years and above.

 

Charges:

  • Dh270- for two year
  • And Dh370 for three years

Step 5 – Get Health Insurance:

Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and family members need to get at least a basic health cover – referred to in Dubai as the Essential Benefits Plan.

 

Step 6 – Get Visa Stamped:

The final step is to get your visa stamped on the passport. For it, you will need to visit the Amer centre with the following documents:

  • Medical fitness report.
  • Emirates ID application.
  • Original passport of the family members.
  • Health insurance papers.
  • Your (sponsor’s) original Emirates ID.

Charges:

  • Regular – Dh460 (You will get the passport with the stamped visa in three to four working days).
  • Urgent – Dh560 (Same day stamping, but the sponsor will need to go to the Immigration service).

Once an application is complete the applicant will receive a call from the authorised courier service – Zajel – for collection. You will also receive an SMS on your registered mobile number with the Zajel airway bill number.  Once the visa is stamped, the passport will be returned through the same courier service,”

 

Other Emirates:

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs manages the visa application process for Abu Dhabi and all other emirates.

 

Step 1 – Get The Entry Permit:

In other emirates, the entry permit or e-visa is referred to as the tasheera.  To apply for the tasheera, you can either visit a typing centre or apply for the visa online. You will need the following documents:

  • For sponsoring your spouse, marriage certificate attested by your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • If you are sponsoring your children, original birth certificates of children attested by the relevant authorities.
  • Copy of valid passport of family members. The passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months.
  • Passport-sized photograph. NOTE: For visa and Emirates ID applications, the photograph needs to be taken on a white background, with ears, forehead to chin completely visible.
  • Copy of your registered tenancy contract.

If you would like to apply online, visit https://echannels.moi.gov.ae and click on the ‘Individual Services’ option. Once you enter your email address, you will get an email with the link for registration.  Follow the steps required to apply for the tasheera or entry permit.  Once the application has been submitted, you will get the tasheera in two working days.

 

Charges:

  • Normal tasheera (when the family is outside the UAE) – Dh500 entry permit.
  • If your family is in the country, tasheera is for Dh1,170 for each member you are sponsoring. They will need to exit the country and enter on the tasheera.
  • Or, you can pay an additional fee of Dh670 per person for ‘change of status’ without the need to exit the country.

NOTE: Even though you have the option to apply online, the process can be quite detailed and if you prefer paying a little extra to get the application done by a professional typing centre, you can do so for a fee of Dh50.

 

Step 2 – Apply for Emirates ID:

To apply for the Emirates ID, you will again need to go to a typing centre to fill out the application.  Once the application is filled out, visit a Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship centre with the following documents:

  • Original passport of each family member.
  • Any old Emirates IDs issued to the members (for previous residents of UAE).

Past residents of the UAE simply need to provide their Emirates ID and do not need to provide biometric data.  New applicants will be scanned for biometric data like finger print and iris scan.

Biometric scan is not required for children under 18.

Charges:

  • Dh270- for two year
  • And Dh370 for three years

Step 3 – Medical Test:

If you are applying for the visa in Abu Dhabi, visit a Health Authority of Abu Dhabi Medical Fitness Centre.

Charges:

  • Dh250 per person

For all other emirates, visit a Ministry of Health and Prevention centre.

Step 4 – Health Insurance:

Health insurance is mandatory in Abu Dhabi. For other emirates, you can skip to step 5. However, it is advisable to get health coverage, even if it is a basic health insurance plan, as medical costs during emergencies can mount quickly.

 

For medical insurance in Abu Dhabi, visit a Health Authority of Abu Dhabi health centre or contact Abu Dhabi’s National Health Insurance Company – Daman on 800 432626 or visit damanhealth.ae

Charges:

  • Dh250 per person
  • Dh500 for same day processing

Step 5 – Get The Visa Stamped:

You will then need to visit a typing centre again with the following documents:

  • Your (sponsor’s) passport copy and visa copy.
  • Original passport of family members.
  • Stamped Emirates ID application.
  • Health insurance papers (for Abu Dhabi).

Even though more recently health insurance and Emirates ID systems have been linked to the immigration services, it is better to carry all copies in case they are requested for by the immigration department.

Charges:

  • Dh400 per person for stamping visa.
  • Dh500 for same day stamping (the sponsor will need to go to the immigration office to get the visa stamped on the passport/s).
  • Once the visa stamping application has been submitted, you will need to pay an additional Dh35 for Empost delivery service.

The passport, with the stamped visa will be delivered to you through the courier service.

 

If you are interested in working in the UAE Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

Want to apply for your family's visa in the UAE? This is the process.

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 9

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How does the process of terminating employment contracts work in the UAE?

There are two types of contracts in the UAE: limited and unlimited. And each of them has a set number of steps for their termination, again depending on if it is resignation, arbitrary dismissal or the end of a contract.

Limited contract:

A limited contract cannot exceed two years’ term and it must mention the notice period ranging from a minimum of one month to a maximum of three months.  Either party can singly terminate the original contract or a renewed contract provided they comply with the legal consequences of early termination which include:

  • Notifying in writing at least one month in advance but no longer than three months.
  • Honouring the contract obligation for the duration of the notice.
  • Compensating the other party to the level that was agreed to by both the parties, provided this does not exceed the equivalent of three months’ gross wages.

A limited contract can be terminated on the following basis:

  • If the term of the contract expires and is not renewed.
  • If both, the employer and employee mutually agree to end it.
  • If a worker commits any of the violations as mentioned under Article 120 of the Labour Law.
  • Unlimited contract.

In case of unlimited contracts, an employment relationship is terminated in one of the following instances:

  • Both, the employer and employee mutually agree to terminate the contract.
  • When either party decides, at any time, to terminate the contract provided that the terminating party abides by the legal notice requirements and continues to honour his obligations for the duration of the notice period, which cannot be less than one month and no longer than three months.
  • When either party acts unilaterally to terminate the contract, without complying with the legal notice and without reasons of default by the other party – in this case, the terminating party bears the legal consequences of early termination.

Termination without notice:

An employment contract, whether limited or unlimited can be terminated without notice period by either party in accordance of the UAE Labour Law.  An employer can terminate an employment contract without notice and deprive the employee of his end of service gratuity, if the latter:

  • Adopts a false identity or nationality or if he or she submits forged documents or certificates.
  • Is appointed under a probationary period and dismissal occurred during or at the end of said period.
  • Commits an error causing substantial material loss to the employer provided that the latter advises the labour department of the incident within 48 hours from having knowledge of the same.
  • Violates instructions concerning safety of the place of business provided that such instructions are displayed in writing at conspicuous places or verbally informed to an illiterate employee.
  • Fails to perform his or her basic duties under the employment contract and persists in violating them despite formal investigation with him or her in this respect and warning him or her of dismissal if the same is repeated.
  • Divulges any secrets of the establishment where he or she is employed.
  • Is awarded final judgement by the competent court in respect of an offence prejudicing honour, honesty or public morals.
  • During working hours, is found drunk or under the influence of prohibited drugs.
  • In the course of his work, commits an assault on the employer, the manager or any of his colleagues.
  • Absents himself without lawful excuse for more than 20 intermittent days or for more than seven successive days during one year.

An employee can terminate an employment contract without notice period if:

  • The employer has failed to meet contractual or legal obligations towards the worker (for example, if he fails to pay wages for a period exceeding 60 days)
  • The employee has filed a court complaint against an employer who has failed to secure employment of the worker (for example, in case of a business shutdown or if the business has been inactive for a period exceeding two months)
  • The final ruling for a labour complaint referred to the Labour court by Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation is in favour of the worker.
  • Arbitrary dismissal
  • Arbitrary or unfair dismissal takes place when an employer terminates an employee or forces him to resign without any justifiable reasons.

According to Article 122 of the UAE Labour Law, arbitrary termination of an employee happens when an employee is fired for reasons not related to work performance, or when the employee files a valid complaint against an employer, which made the latter terminate him maliciously.

Article 122 – The termination of the employment of the worker by the employer shall be deemed arbitrary should the cause of termination not be related to the work, in particular should the termination of the employment of the worker be made by reason of the filing by the latter of a serious complaint before the pertinent authorities or a valid claim against the employer.

Article 120 of the UAE Labour lays out the reasons for which termination without notice is lawful.  They are that the employer may dismiss the worker without prior notice in any of the following cases:

  • Should the worker assume false identity or nationality, or submits false certificates or documents.
  • Should the worker be appointed under probation, and the dismissal occur during or at the end of the probation period.
  • Should the worker commit an error resulting in colossal material losses to the employer, provided that the Labour Department is notified of the incident within 48 hours of the knowledge of the occurrence thereof.
  • Should the worker violate the instructions related to the safety at work or in the work place, provided that such instructions be written and posted in a prominent location, and that he is notified thereof should he be illiterate.
  • Should the worker fail to perform his main duties in accordance with the employment contract, and fail to remedy such failure despite a written investigation on the matter and a warning that he will be dismissed in case of recidivism.
  • Should he divulge any of the secret of the establishment where he works.
  • Should he be convicted in a final manner by the competent court in a crime of honour, honesty or public ethics.
  • Should he be found in a state of drunkenness or under the influence of a narcotic during work hours.
  • Should he assault during the work the employer, responsible manager or co-worker.
  • Should he be absent without valid cause for more than twenty non-consecutive days in one year, or for more than seven consecutive days.

If an employee believes that he has been dismissed illegally, he can complain to Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The ministry will try to solve the issue amicably. If an amicable settlement is not reached, the case will be referred to the respective court.  As per Article 123 of the UAE Labour Law, if arbitrary dismissal is proven, the court will order the employer to pay a compensation to the employee.

  • Should the worker be arbitrarily dismissed, the competent court may order the employer to pay a compensation to the worker. The court shall assess such compensation, taking into account the type of work and the extent of damage incurred to the worker as well as the duration of employment and after the investigation of the work conditions. In all cases , the amount of compensation shall not exceed the wage of the worker for a period of three months calculated on the basis of the last due wage.
  • The provisions of the preceding paragraph shall not breach the right of the worker to the gratuity entitled thereto and the compensation in lieu of notice provided for herein.
  • The court will assess the value of compensation taking into account the type of work, the extent of damage incurred to the employee and the duration of the employment. In all cases, the amount of compensation must not exceed the wage of the employee for a period of three months, calculated on the basis of the last wage the worker is entitled to.
  • In addition to compensation, the employee can claim his gratuity, notice period dues or any other unpaid dues he is entitled to from his employer.)

Grace period:

After termination of employment contract and cancellation of the work visa, the terminated employee is granted a 30-day grace period from the date of cancellation, where he can either obtain a new residence permit or leave the country. Illegal residents are liable to be fined and/or deported.

We hope this helps and if you are interested in working in the UAE then Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

Know your employment rights in the UAE

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 8

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Deportation From The UAE

There two types of deportation, legal and administrative. Legal deportation is issued under a court order, while administrative deportation is issued by Federal Identity and Citizenship Authority and lifted under an application to General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs in the related emirate.

Judicial deportation – Legal deportation is issued under a court order against a foreigner who is sentenced for a felony by a custodial punishment. Article 121 of Law No. 3 of 1987 on penal code, amended by virtue of Federal Law No. 34 of 2005, amended by virtue of Federal Decree-Law No. 7 of 2016 provides that a foreigner, who is sentenced for a felony by a custodial punishment or for crimes involving sexual assault, shall be deported from the State.

In other misdemeanours, the court may order that he must be expelled from the country or that the expulsion be as an alternative penalty to the custodial punishment.

Administrative deportation – Administrative deportation is issued by Federal Identity and Citizenship Authority against a foreigner for the sake of public interest, public security or public morals. This type can be removed under an application to be submitted to General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs in the related emirate.

According to the Ministerial Decision No. 360 of 1997, promulgating the executive regulation of Law No. 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residency of Foreigners, amended by Decree Law No. 17 of 2017, the federal public prosecutor or his legal representative and chairman of Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship or his representative may issue a deportation order against a foreigner, even if he/she holds a valid entry permit or residency visa, if that deportation order is required for the sake of public interest, public security, public morals or public health, or if that foreigner does not have an apparent means of living.

Order of deportation issued to a foreigner may include the members of his family, who depend on him for their living.

Grace period to settle interests of the deported person – If a foreigner against whom a deportation order has been issued has interests in the country that need to be settled, he shall be granted a grace period after providing a bail. Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship shall define the duration of that grace period, which shall not exceed three months.

Lifting administrative deportation – A foreigner who has been deported administratively may not return to the country except with special permission from Ministry of Interior, as per Article 28 of Law No. 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners.

The application for obtaining the special permit referred to above shall be submitted to the naturalisation and residency administration concerned with receiving the applications for entry permits and visas, provided that the application shall contain all information related to the previous residency permits, the reasons for deportation, and circumstances which occurred thereafter. Justifications for entry may be mentioned in the application, supported with documents and necessary evidence.

Lifting legal deportation – A foreigner, against whom a legal deportation order is issued, may apply to the public prosecution to cancel the deportation order. He/she may state reasons for his application and submit supporting documents. The application is sent to a special committee to take a decision on lifting the deportation order. In Dubai, you can apply online to cancel deportation via the website of Public Prosecution.

What is the Blacklist? – According to the Executive Regulation of Law No. 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners, the blacklist includes the names of individuals prohibited to enter or leave the UAE due to committing a crime, their liability for civil rights or for being dangerous to the public security.

Entering names in the blacklist or cancelling names shall be based on a letter issued by the authorities concerned for the following categories:

  • Individuals banned from entrance
  • Persons who previously committed crimes and ordered by the competent court to deport the country
  • Persons deported under administrative orders of Ministry of Interior according to Article 23 of Law No. 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners
  • Persons whose activities are reported by International Criminal Cooperation Department
  • Persons who were proved to be suffering from AIDS or other diseases that Ministry of Health and Prevention deems dangerous to the public health
  • Persons deported from the GCC countries for criminal reasons.

How do you get off the blacklist? – Individual names recorded in blacklists can be lifted according to the following conditions:

  • Individuals listed under a competent court decision shall be subject to procedures and rules included in articles 102, 103 and 104 of the Ministerial Resolution No. 360 of 1997
  • Individual names listed under a decision by Minister of Interior or his/her authorised representative according to article 23 of Law No. 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners will be lifted under a decision issued by the same minister
  • Individual names listed under an order by International Criminal Cooperation Department will be lifted in the same way of listing.
  • Individuals banned from leaving
  • Every individual against whom an order is issued by the public prosecutor or its representative, regarding a case being investigated
  • Every individual against whom an order is issued by a competent court, regarding a case being considered
  • Any person liable for paying government funds, in which case, the leaving ban order will be issued by the competent Minister or his authorised representative.

How do you get off the banned from leaving list?

  • Names of individuals banned from leaving the UAE can be lifted from the blacklist under a written order by the Public Prosecutor or his/her representative after receiving a written notice from the same entity which issued the ban order
  • Names of individuals banned from leaving the UAE under a competent court decision will be lifted from the blacklist under a written order from the same court
  • Names of individuals liable for paying government funds will be lifted from the blacklist under a written order from the authority concerned stating justification and reasons. In this case, the ban lifting order has to be issued by Minister of Interior or his authorised representative.

What is an administrative list? – The administrative list includes names of persons banned from entering the UAE due to cancellation of their residence visas and persons banned from leaving because of escaping from their sponsors.

Administrative list includes the following:

  • Maids and other similar individuals, who cancelled their residence visas before expiration of their labour contracts
  • Persons who absconded from their sponsors and were reported to the police
  • Persons against whom an administrative deportation order was issued.

How are names lifted off the administrative list? – Department of Entry and Residence Permits may lift names of the following categories from the administrative list after one year from their leave or deportation from the UAE:

  • Domestic helpers added to the list because of cancelling their residence before expiration of their employment contracts.
  • Individuals deported from the UAE according to Article 29 of Foreigner Entry and Residency Law
  • Individuals banned from entering the UAE according to fines reduction regulations provided in the Ministerial Resolution No. 360 of 1997.

Who organises and updates these lists? – The Federal Department of Criminal Police in Ministry of Interior is responsible for preparing, organising and updating blacklists. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs is responsible for preparing, organising and updating the administrative lists.

Interested in a new life adventure in the UAE? Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

Dubai: Expectation vs reality - BBC NewsAdd Your Heading Text Here

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 7

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United Arab Emirates: Five-year Tourist Visa Scheme Announced

The UAE’s first multi-entry five-year tourist visa will encourage travellers to become ‘repeat visitors’ and spend more while they are in the Emirates, experts said.  Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, said the visa would be implemented in the next four months as part of a drive to establish the country as a ‘major global tourism destination’.  It will allow tourists multiple entries into the country over the five period, instead of having to apply for entry for each visit. It is not clear if there will be a visa application fee and no other details have yet been released.  At present, tourists can visit the UAE with a free multiple entry visa for up to 90 days, from the date of entry.

“Dubai will be on the radar as a longer term option especially in the winter months,” said Maggie Bootsman, general manager of Travel Counsellors UAE.  “This is a fantastic opportunity to allow people into the UAE for a longer period of time.”  Apart from tourists from India, Pakistan and the Philippines who can visit their family more frequently, it will attract visitors from Europe, Africa and South America who travel to the region.  “It gives tourists visiting the region a window of opportunity to experience all that Dubai and the UAE have to offer,” Ms Bootsman said.  “We have a lot of visitors from South Africa to the region. Australians too come here but for a very short period. Once they visit, they will understand there is more depth so they will be interested in staying longer.”

The new system will help streamline visa requirements. While South Africans apply before they arrive in the country and pay Dh380 for a 30-day visa, Australians are eligible for a free 30-day visa on arrival at the airport.  Citizens from nations including the US, UK, Canada, Japan and China do not require advance visas.  The Cabinet decision included a visa waiver for Mexican citizens that will be implemented along with the five-year visa in the first quarter of the year, according to Wam news agency.

While recent government figures show a drop off in numbers of Indian, British and Russian tourists, Dubai welcomed 12 million visitors in the first nine months of 2019.  The Cabinet decision could have wide-ranging benefits, Ms Bootsman said.  “When people know they can spend more time here, it could be an opportunity for them to look at holiday apartments in Dubai,” she said.  “This was blocked in the past because they couldn’t spend more time here but now they will be willing to invest more which will be a great boost.”

Premjit Bangara, general manager of Sharaf Travel in Dubai, said repeat visits would have a positive impact on the economy.  “The flexibility it provides is the defining change. It will encourage more travel. We are looking at people who will want to come again and again,” he said.  “After one visit, people now think that another visa costs too much. But a five-year visa will turn a first-timer into a second and third-timer.”  Longer visits will also prompt travellers to head to other emirates.  “When it’s a single entry, people visit another country. A multi-entry will draw people back again like a magnet,” Mr Bangara said.“  It’s not just Dubai and Abu Dhabi, tourists will have time to visit Fujairah and Al Ain as well.  They can space their visits out and get to know the country.”

Information about the visa fee and the duration of stay is awaited to analyse how the five-year tourist visa will stimulate tourism.  “It’s important for us to understand how long an individual will be allowed to stay in country,” said Marcin Kubarek, senior manager at Fragomen, an immigration services firm.  “After the Cabinet announcement, there will be a ministerial resolution issued giving the additional terms and conditions. Every facilitation of mobility into the country helps boost tourism, investment and business activity and this visit visa comes just at the right time.”  It would spark interest among visiting businessmen to return with family.  “As a tourism and business hub, Dubai and the UAE attracts people from South Asia, Africa, the Philippines,” Mr Kubarek said.  “This will open the markets of the UAE to potential partners doing business here who will want to spend their holidays in the country and explore the eastern and northern emirates.”

UAE Announced 5 Year Tourist Visa l Big News l For All Nationalities

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 6

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You can hold a full-time and part-time job together with the right permit

Since 2010, the UAE’s Labour Law has made provisions, which allow an employee to have a part-time job along with a full-time one subject to certain conditions. The employee can work part-time after getting the work permit from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Cost – The fee for part-time work permit includes an application fee of Dh100 and an approval fee of Dh500.

Law – As per Federal Decree Law No. 2 of 2007, if an expatriate is caught working for another company without an official permit, then a fine of Dh50,000 will be applied to the hiring company, in addition to other penalties in case of repeating the offence.

For people on an existing work permit – Emiratis, other GCC nationals and expatriate employees who are living in the UAE on a work visa, can take up a second job, upon getting a part-time work permit from MoHRE, which is valid for one year.

Part-time work permit holders are allowed to work in another company at the same time as working in the current company on a part-time basis for less than eight hours per day.

For people on a dependent visa – Those who live in the UAE on a family visa can take up a second job after getting a part-time work permit with a No Objection Certificate from the sponsor. Such work permits can be issued to men and women between 18 and 65 years of age.

Temporary/Part-time work permit – It is a service provided by the Ministry to recruit a national or expatriate worker residing in the UAE to carry out a certain work within a period not exceeding six months.

Required Documents

  • A copy of both establishments’ trade licences (the current establishment and the application applying establishment).
  • A colour photograph with a white background of the applicant.
  • A copy of the applicant’s passport.
  • If academic qualification is required (post-secondary diploma, university degree or equivalent), a copy thereof which should be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall be attached.
  • A letter of approval issued by the competent authority shall be attached if so required (doctor, pharmacist, nurse, and teacher).
  • A copy of the contract.
  • No objection certificate from the first sponsor.
  • A copy of the applicant’s visa that includes (the sponsor or establishment name) that is valid for more than six months.
  • Terms and Conditions.

Workers who are registered in the Ministry, under following conditions:

  • The permit and residency visa shall be valid for more than six months
  • The permit’s period shall not exceed six months or the current permit expiry date, whichever is earlier.
  • Approval of those authorised signatory of the current and applying establishments shall be submitted.

Workers not registered at the Ministry:

  • Government employees.
  • Students of both genders (from the age of 18 years) who are under the sponsorship of their relatives, schools, or universities. On the condition that the visa profession is (student).
  • Females (from the age of 18 years) who are under the sponsorship of their relatives.
  • Husbands of UAE national women.
  • Children of UAE national women.

Under the following condition:

  • The worker and his/her non-national relatives shall have a valid residence visa stamped in the passport.
  • The guardians approval.
  • This permit shall be valid for six months.
  • Submitting approval of the profession related authority (Ministry of Affairs – Ministry of Health – Ministry of Education – Sports, Youth, Community Development Authority).
  • Exceptions
  • The Ministry may approve to grant a temporary work permit, without satisfying the condition related to the former employer’s approval and the validity of the card and residence visa, in the following cases:
  • A labour complaint that is referred by the Ministry to a court of law.
  • If it is confirmed that the employer failed to pay wages for a period exceeding two months according to the wages protection office report or the labour relation offices report.

General conditions for the above:

  • The applying establishment trade licence should be valid.
  • The new labour profession should be suitable with the establishment activity.
  • The labour should not be below 18 years of age.
  • Payment

Request for initial approval of a new electronic work permit (Part-time)

  • 1st Category: AED 100
  • 2nd Category: Level (A) AED 100 – Level (B) AED 100 – Level (C) AED 100
  • 3rd Category: AED 100

Initial approval of a new electronic work permit (Part-time) six-month period

  • 1st Category: AED 500
  • 2nd Category: Level (A) AED 500 – Level (B) AED 500 – Level (C) AED 500
  • 3rd Category: AED 500

Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website

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BLOG SERIES – WORKING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) – PART 5

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How to get an Emirates ID & Sponsorship?

This is necessary to complete your visa application process. It is basically a digital national identification system that is required for most transactions in the UAE. It is linked to your passport and visa – it is part of a national centralized system.

Once this done, you just have to wait till your employer completes the process, has the residence visa affixed on your original passport. This can take anywhere from five days to a month, depends on your employer.  Once you have a visa, you can bring in your family dependent upon the required criteria being met.

Once you are done with your visa process, how can you get your family to the UAE?

Expatriate residents, can sponsor their families in the UAE provided they have a valid residency permit.  Male residents who are employed in the UAE can sponsor their immediate family members, such as wife and children, subject to conditions, which include minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.  Since March 2019, the type of profession is no longer a condition for an expatriate worker to be able to sponsor his family visas.

Male residents who are employed in the UAE can sponsor their immediate family members, such as wife and children, subject to conditions, which include minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. Now, an expatriate can bring over his family members to the UAE and sponsor their residence visas regardless of his profession, as long as he maintains the ‘income criteria’ or the minimum wage requirement, which is a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation

Male residents who are employed in the UAE can sponsor their immediate family members, such as wife and children, subject to conditions, which include minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. Now, an expatriate can bring over his family members to the UAE and sponsor their residence visas regardless of his profession, as long as he maintains the ‘income criteria’ or the minimum wage requirement, which is a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.

Further, if the father of the family is residing in the UAE and meets the conditions for sponsoring his children, the mother is not allowed to sponsor them.  A resident sponsor has 60 days to apply for his dependents’ residence visa after they enter the UAE and modify their status from an entry permit holder to a resident visa holder.  Family members are issued visas for one or two years depending on the nature of the work and employment contract of the sponsoring member.

Sponsored residents except adult males who are continuing their education and sponsored parents can enjoy the same visa duration as their sponsors. For adult males and parents, the residence visa is granted on a yearly basis regardless of the sponsor’s visa duration.

An expatriate resident may sponsor the residence visa for his wife and children if he fulfils the sponsorship requirements set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).  To sponsor his wife, the expatriate resident must prove an existing marital relationship by submitting an authenticated marriage certificate in Arabic or duly translated into Arabic by a certified translator.

In strict cases, a Muslim resident may be allowed to sponsor his two wives, if he meets certain terms and conditions set by the respective GDRFA.

An expatriate resident can sponsor his daughter/s only if she/they is/are unmarried, till the age of 18 years in case of a male child. Since October 21, 2018, students who graduate from their universities or secondary schools or complete 18 years of age will be granted a one-year residence visa, renewable for another year from the graduation date or on completing 18 years.  For this type of visa, parents are not required to place bank deposits. The visa will cost AED100 for first time issuing and renewal.  To avail of this service, parents must present duly attested graduation certificates from universities or schools, whether inside the country or abroad.

Important note: An expatriate resident can also sponsor his stepchildren, subject to GDRFA’s conditions, which include a deposit for each child and a written no-objection certificate from the biological parent. Their residence visas are valid for one year; renewable annually.

Required documents to sponsor your wife and children include:

  • Online application or through a registered typing office
  • Passport copies of the wife and children
  • Photos of the wife and children
  • Medical clearance certificate for the wife and children above 18
  • Copy of the husband’s employment contract or company contract
  • Salary certificate from the employer stating the employee’s monthly salary
  • Attested marriage certificate
  • Registered tenancy contract
  • Latest utility bill

How can you sponsor your parents?

An expatriate employee can sponsor his parents, which is for a year, by paying a deposit as a guarantee for each parent as stipulated by the respective immigration department. This is refundable.  An expatriate employee cannot sponsor only one of his parents. He needs to sponsor both parents together. He also needs to provide proof that he is their sole support and that there is no one to take care of them back home.  If one of the parents has passed away or if the parents are divorced, he has to show the related official documents as justification to sponsor only one of his parents

To sponsor parents, the employed expatriate resident must earn the minimum salary stipulated and obtain a medical insurance policy for parents with the minimum coverage stipulated for each, to be renewed each year. For example: GDFRA in Dubai stipulates a minimum salary of AED 20,000 or a monthly pay of AED 19,000 plus a two-bedroom accommodation to sponsor parents’ visa.

How can a woman sponsor her family?

In Abu Dhabi, a woman can sponsor her husband and children if she holds a residence permit stating that she is an engineer, teacher, doctor, nurse or any other profession related to the medical sector and if her monthly salary is not less than AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 plus accommodation. She needs to provide additional documents as stipulated by the respective authority.

In Dubai, if a woman is not employed in one of these categories, she may still get approval to sponsor her family if her monthly salary is more than AED 10,000 and with a special permission from the GDFRA.  A single mother can sponsor her child. The authorities might ask for documents similar to those required to sponsor stepchildren.

What happens to your family’s visa/s if you quit or lose your job?

The family’s residence permits are linked to the residence permit of the sponsoring expatriate employee. If the sponsoring family member’s visa is cancelled, it requires cancellation of the visas of the dependents.  Dependents are granted a 30-day grace period from the date of expiry or cancellation of their visa to obtain a new residence permit.  If the employee fails to renew or cancel the visa of his dependents, the dependents would be deemed illegal residents and could be liable to pay a fine.

A great toll free number for MoHRE to have: 800-60

Issuing of ID Card for the First Time

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Blog Series – Working In The United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Part 4

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Part 4 - Medical Fitness Requirements For Expatriates

In order for the UAE to grant or renew a residence visa for all expatriates, males and females, have to undergo and pass medical fitness tests at government approved health centres in the UAE.

All applicants of a UAE Residency Visa, whether for first time or for renewal, will be tested for two communicable diseases:

  • HIV (by testing their blood) and;
  • Pulmonary tuberculosis (by taking an x-ray of their chest).

Those found to be HIV positive or having tuberculosis will be considered medically unfit and therefore will not be granted a residence visa. They will be deported immediately by the UAE’s authorities.

Residents who are detected with dormant or inactive pulmonary tuberculosis are also considered medically fit:

In this case, they are granted a one-year ‘Health Fitness Certificate for Residence’ subject to treatment and follow-up by the Department of Preventive Medicine or equivalent government health authority.

Hence, if you suspect to be suffering from a communicable disease it is advisable to get yourself tested in your home country first.

You need to know:

  • In order to be able to obtain a clear work/residence permit, expatriates need to be free of all forms of communicable diseases such as HIV and TB.
  • In order to be able to obtain a clear work/residence permit, expatriates need to be free of all forms of communicable diseases such as HIV and TB. Hence, if you suspect to be suffering from a communicable disease it is advisable to get yourself tested in your home country first

Work visa requirements:

In order to be able to obtain a clear work/residence permit, expatriates need to be free of all forms of communicable diseases such as HIV and TB. Hence, if you suspect to be suffering from a communicable disease it is advisable to get yourself tested in your home country first.

In addition, the following categories of workers should test negative for syphilis and Hepatitis B:

  • Workers in nurseries
  • Domestic workers including housemaids, nannies and drivers
  • Food handlers and workers in restaurants and cafes
  • Workers in saloons and beauty centres
  • Workers in health clubs
  • Female domestic workers must test negative for pregnancy

Important note:

  • A new Cabinet Resolution was passed in 2016. As per this resolution, all resident expatriates while renewing their residence visas have to undergo TB screening, too.
  • Those found with scars or active TB or found having drug-resistant TB will be issued a conditional fitness certificate and be issued residence visa for one year. They will then have to undergo treatment in the UAE.

Where are government medical fitness centres located?

Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Shariah have several medical fitness centres. Check also medical examinations centres for residency offered by the Ministry of Health and Prevention – Preventive Medicine Department.

Medical examination for Residency:

You can complete your medical examinations regarding the issuance of a residence visa at a medical examination centre near you.

Services offered at the centres:

  • Printing of Residence visa forms.
  • Conducting of medical examination.
  • Issuance of Emirates ID (Preventive Medicine Departments only)
  • Documents Required
  • Valid passport copy
  • Valid Residence Permit/Visa copy.
  • Two passport size photographs with a white background.
  • Valid Emirates ID copy (only in case of renewal of residence visa).

 

Service Locations:

Medical examination centres for UAE Residency Visa process in shopping malls

  • Ibn Battuta Mall Dubai – Jebel Ali, China Court, Besides DEWA Customer Happiness center, 04-8804762, MEC.IBN@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday – Thursday, Saturday – 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Applications accepted only till one hour before closing
  • Dragon Mart 2 Dubai – International City, First floor, Near Novo Cinemas, 04-2326615, MEC.DG2@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday – Thursday, Applications accepted only till one hour before closing, Saturday – 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Applications accepted only till one hour before closing
  • Spring Souk Mall Dubai – Jebel Ali, Springs Shopping Center, 1st floor – near Reel cinema, 04-4274431, Spring.DXB@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday – Thursday
  • Salah Al Deen Street (19/b), Al Muraqqabat, Opposite to Al Reef Mall and Salah El Deen Metro Station, 04-4274431, MEC.SalahElDeen.DXB@moh.gov.ae, 7:30 AM- 7:30 PM, Sunday-Thursday
  • Al Khobaisi Dubai – Deira, Al Ittihad Street (22), Behind Hyundai Agency, 04-2355524, MEC.AlKhobaisi.DXB@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday – Thursday
  • Al Nahda Center Dubai-Deira, Al Nahda Area 1, Al Ittihad Street (4), Near Tadbeer Center, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday-Thursday, 04-2638833, MEC.AlNahda.DXB@moh.gov.ae
  • Al Khibrah Center Sharjah-Industrial Area (10) near the industrial police station (10), 06-7489547, MEC.AlKhibrah.SHJ@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday – Thursday
  • Mushrif Health Centre Ajman, Al Ittihad Street near Emirates Telecommunication Corporation Company, 06-7455900, MEC.Mushairif.AJM@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday-Thursday
  • Sahara Center Sharjah – Al Nahda Area Sahara Center – basement, 06-5313666, MEC.Sahara.SHJ@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday – Thursday
  • Al Ibdaa Center Sharjah Industrial area 18 Al Maliha street Showroom 3, 4, 06-7429800, MEC.AlIbdaa.SHJ@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday-Thursday
  • Al Dahan center Ras al Khaimah, Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Street near the red Twilight car upholstery shop, 07-2224900, MEC.Dahan.RAK@moh.gov.ae, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday – Thursday

Service Charges: 48 hours (AED 110 including VAT)

The Ministry of Health and Prevention Preventive Medicine Departments:

  • Preventive Medicine Center – Dubai (Al Baraha), 04-2731161, dxb.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Preventive medicine Center – Al Ghubaiba, 06-5662111, shj.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
  • Examination Center of Expatriate Labour in the Industrial Area, 06-5421442, shj.pmd@moh.gov.ae Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Center – Kalba, 09-2031256, kal.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Wednesday 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Centre – Dibba Al Hisn, 09-2444455, shj.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Center – Khorfakkan, 09-2384664, khor.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Preventive medicine Center – Al Dhaid, 06-8822221, dhd.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Center – Fujairah, 09-2227114, fuj.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Centre – Ras Al Khaimah, 07-2223111, rak.pmd@moh.gov.ae
  • Preventive Medicine Center – Ajman, 06-7031700, ajm.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM Sunday and Tuesday 5:00 PM to 10 PM
  • Preventive Medicine Center – Umm Al Quwain, 06-7649393, uaq.pmd@moh.gov.ae, Sunday to Thursday 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM Tuesday 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM 5:00PM to 10:00 PM Service Charges: 48hrs.
  • (Subject to 105 AED Service charge)
  • Medical Examination Packages
  • All Categories (excluding vaccination and female household domestic service) – AED 260
  • All Categories (including vaccination) – AED 310
  • Female House Hold Domestic Service – AED 360

Contact us for a confidential discussion and refer family, friends and colleagues and be rewarded.

UAE Resident visa: Medical Test

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