Mohre Issuance Of New Work Permit (Overseas) – How To Apply Work Permit for Overseas Workers
The MOHRE Issuance of New Work Permit (Overseas) is a key service provided by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for employers in the UAE looking to hire foreign workers. This streamlined process enables private companies to legally recruit skilled professionals from outside the UAE while ensuring full compliance with the country’s labour laws.
This article serves as a comprehensive, guide to understanding the MOHRE new work permit process, documentation, fees, and legal regulations involved.
What Is the MOHRE Issuance of New Work Permit (Overseas)?
The MOHRE provides a legal framework that allows UAE employers to hire workers from abroad through an electronic application system. The MOHRE issuance of new work permit simplifies the recruitment process, ensuring proper documentation, legal compliance, and smart service delivery.
The service is designed for:
- Employers in the private sector.
- Recruitment agencies acting on behalf of establishments.
This procedure includes application, verification, approval, and issuance of permits, with coordination between MOHRE and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).
MOHRE New Work Permit Application Process
Below is a step-by-step overview of how employers can apply for a new work permit:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Log In | Access the MOHRE Smart App or website using UAE Pass. |
| 2. Submit Application | Fill out and submit the application via service channels. |
| 3. Verification | MOHRE verifies compliance with regulations. |
| 4. Notification | In case of missing documents, employer is informed. |
| 5. Issuance | Work permit is issued upon successful verification. |
| 6. Payment | Pay the applicable federal fees and insurance/bank guarantee. |
Employers must attach a signed job offer from both employer and employee.
Documents Required for MOHRE Work Permit
To ensure quick processing, ensure that the following documents are provided:
| Document | Requirement |
| Passport Copy | Must be valid for at least 6 months. |
| Colored Photo | With white background. |
| Official Job Offer | Signed by employer and employee. |
| Academic Certificates | Based on skill level classification (see below). |
| Professional Licence | Required for regulated professions. |
| National ID Card | Mandatory for specific nationalities. |
Skill Level Academic Requirements
| Skill Level | Qualification Required |
| 1 & 2 | Bachelor’s Degree or higher |
| 3 & 4 | Diploma graduate or higher |
| 5 | High School Certificate |
| 6 – 9 | No academic certificate required |
Professionals such as doctors, teachers, nurses, advocates, and fitness trainers must present valid licences from authorized UAE bodies (e.g., Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, etc.).
Special Note: Workers from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran must submit a valid, clear copy of both sides of their national ID cards.
MOHRE Work Permit Issuance Details In PDF
Terms and Conditions for MOHRE Work Permit Issuance
To ensure eligibility for the MOHRE issuance of new work permit (overseas), the following terms and conditions must be met:
- The employee must be at least 18 years old.
- The employer’s establishment must have an active license with no violations.
- A valid electronic quota must be available for the establishment.
- The profession must align with MOHRE regulations, especially if it requires professional licensing.
- The application must be submitted by the authorized signatory of the business.
- The applicant must not hold an existing active work permit.
Permit Replacement and Change of Nationality
The work permit may be replaced or the nationality changed within six months of issuance (up to two times), provided:
- The profession and gender remain unchanged.
- The previous worker’s entry permit is cancelled by ICP.
The new employer must comply with Article 9, Paragraphs 3 & 4 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on labour relations.
Fees for MOHRE Work Permit (Overseas)
The cost structure for obtaining a new work permit varies depending on the employment category:
Work Permit Application Fee
| Category | Fee (AED) |
| 1, 2, 3 | 50 |
Two-Year Work Permit Issuance Fee
| Category | Fee (AED) |
| 1 | 250 |
| 2 | 1200 |
| 3 | 3450 |
Additional Charges
| Service Type | Charge (AED) |
| Business Centre Commission | Up to 72 |
Note: Fees do not include VAT or collection charges.
Free Services
All services excluding federal fees are free of charge if completed via:
Legal Compliance and Reminders
The UAE government stresses that working on a visit visa is illegal. Violators, including employers, may face fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million.
Employers are reminded to:
- Obtain a valid work permit before employing a foreign worker.
- Ensure the new hire undergoes medical tests and applies for an Emirates ID.
- Maintain transparency and comply with all employment regulations.
Integration with Other Government Services
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) issues the entry permit post-approval, allowing the foreign worker to legally enter the UAE.
After entry:
- Medical tests are conducted.
- Emirates ID application is processed.
- Final employment contract is issued through MOHRE.
Smart Monitoring & Application Tracking
Applicants can monitor their application progress through:
- MOHRE Website
- MOHRE Smart App
- MOHRE Call Center: 600590000
The ministry also emphasizes digital transformation by offering 13 types of work permits, each catering to different employment categories to enhance the flexibility and competitiveness of the UAE labour market.
How to Track Your Work Permit Application
Employers can track application status and updates through multiple channels:
| Channel | Access Link or Method |
| MOHRE Website | www.mohre.gov.ae |
| MOHRE Smart App | Available on iOS and Android stores |
| Call Center | Dial 600590000 |
Benefits of the MOHRE Work Permit System
- Simplified online procedures via UAE Pass.
- Timely verification and feedback on missing documents.
- Legally compliant recruitment process.
- Transparent cost structure.
- Digital tracking of applications.
FAQs About MOHRE Issuance of New Work Permit
How long does it take to process the MOHRE work permit application?
Ans: The processing typically takes 2 working days, assuming all documentation is complete and accurate.
Can I apply for a MOHRE work permit if the employee is already in the UAE on a visit visa?
Ans: No. Working on a visit visa is illegal. The applicant must enter the UAE with a valid entry permit and follow the proper employment procedure.
Is there a limit to how many times I can replace a work permit or change the nationality?
Ans: Yes. You can replace a permit or change nationality twice within six months of the original issuance, provided the profession and gender remain unchanged and the ICP cancels the previous entry permit.
Conclusion
The MOHRE issuance of new work permit (overseas) service is a well-structured and digitally efficient system designed to help UAE employers recruit foreign talent legally. With clear steps, specified document requirements, and defined legal obligations, businesses can ensure compliance while strengthening the national labour force.
