The major difference between a work permit and work visa in Dubai are listed below:
|
Aspect |
Work Permit (Labour Permit) |
Work Visa (Employment Visa / Residence Visa) |
|
Issuing Authority |
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) |
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) |
|
Purpose |
Entry approval to work in the UAE |
Allows living and working in Dubai for long-term |
|
Validity |
Short-term (about 2 months) |
2–3 years (renewable) |
|
When Issued |
Before entering UAE for employment |
After arrival, once medical, Emirates ID & residency stamping are complete |
|
Requirement |
Needed to enter UAE for a job |
Needed to stay and legally work long-term |
|
Sponsor |
UAE-based employer |
UAE-based employer (for standard work visas) |
|
Role in Process |
First step in employment process |
Final step that grants residency + work rights |