Quick Answer: The UAE Job Seeker Visa allows skilled professionals to enter the UAE without a sponsor to search for employment. Available for 60, 90, or 120 days with fees starting at AED 200. You must hold a bachelor’s degree and fall within MOHRE skill levels 1-3, or be a recent graduate from a top 500 global university. Once you secure a job offer, your employer can convert your visa to an employment visa without leaving the country.
Introduction
Finding a job in Dubai used to mean applying from abroad and hoping for an interview invitation. The UAE Job Seeker Visa changed that. Introduced in October 2022 under the Advanced Visa System, this visa lets you enter the country, attend interviews in person, and network directly with employers.
No sponsor required. No job offer needed before you arrive. Just your qualifications and the drive to find the right opportunity. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a UAE Job Seeker Visa and turning it into full-time employment.
What is the UAE Job Seeker Visa?
The UAE Job Seeker Visa is a single-entry visit visa that allows skilled professionals and recent graduates to enter the UAE without a host or employer sponsor. It provides legal authorization to search for employment, attend interviews, and explore career opportunities across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates, helping you feel confident and secure in your plans.
Unlike a tourist visa, the Job Seeker Visa is specifically designed for employment exploration. You cannot work on this visa, but once you receive a job offer, your employer can process your employment visa while you remain in the country, providing support to pursue your career goals.
Key Features
- Self-sponsored (no employer or UAE national required)
- Single-entry permit
- Available for 60, 90, or 120 days
- Convertible to an employment visa without exiting the UAE
- Online application through the ICP or GDRFA portals
Related: UAE: Complete Guide to Employment Visas
Eligibility Requirements
The UAE Job Seeker Visa targets skilled professionals who can contribute to the country’s economy. You must meet one of the following criteria:
Option 1: Skilled Professional
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Classified in MOHRE skill levels 1, 2, or 3
- Demonstrate sufficient financial means for your stay
Option 2: Recent Graduate
- Graduated from a top 500 university (as recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education)
- Graduated within the last 2 years
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
MOHRE Skill Level Classification
| Level | Category | Examples |
| Level 1 | Legislators, Managers, Business Executives | CEOs, Directors, General Managers |
| Level 2 | Professionals (Scientific, Technical, Human Fields) | Engineers, Doctors, Accountants, IT Specialists |
| Level 3 | Technicians and Associate Professionals | Lab Technicians, Nurses, Drafters |
Visa Duration Options
Choose your visa duration based on your job search strategy and financial situation.
| Duration | Best For | Extension | Entry Type |
| 60 Days | Quick job search, multiple interviews lined up | Can extend once | Single Entry |
| 90 Days | Broader search, networking | Can extend once | Single Entry |
| 120 Days | Strategic search, career exploration | Maximum initial period | Single Entry |
The 90-day option is most popular among job seekers. It provides enough time to attend multiple rounds of interviews while keeping costs manageable. If you already have interviews scheduled, the 60-day visa may be sufficient.
Job Seeker Visa Fees
Fees vary based on the duration and the location of your application. The official GDRFA fees are:
| Duration | GDRFA Base Fee | Total with Services* |
| 60 Days | AED 200 | AED 1,495 – 1,800 |
| 90 Days | AED 300 | AED 1,655 – 2,000 |
| 120 Days | AED 400 | AED 1,815 – 2,200 |
*Total includes processing fee, service charges, insurance, and refundable security deposit (approximately AED 1,025). The security deposit is returned after visa expiry.
Related: Dubai Work Permit Requirements & Costs 2026 (uaeinsiderguide.com)
Required Documents
| Document | Requirements |
| Valid Passport | Minimum 6 months validity, clear scan of bio page |
| Passport Photo | Recent, white background, passport size (JPEG format) |
| Educational Certificate | Bachelor’s degree or higher (attested if required) |
| Financial Proof | Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the stay |
| Health Insurance | Valid UAE-compliant travel insurance |
| Graduation Certificate (Recent Grads) | Must show graduation within the last 2 years from a top 500 university |
How to Apply Online
You can apply through the ICP Smart Services portal or the GDRFA Dubai website. Here is the step-by-step process:
- Create an account on the ICP Smart Services portal (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) using UAE Pass or individual credentials
- Navigate to Public Services and select “Issue Job Seeker Visa” or “Visit Visa to Explore Job Opportunities.”
- Select your preferred duration: 60, 90, or 120 days
- Fill out the application form with details matching your passport exactly
- Upload required documents in PDF or JPEG format
- Pay the visa fee via credit/debit card
- Submit your application and note your reference number
- Track status through your ICP account (processing takes 2-5 working days)
- Receive your e-visa by email once approved
Alternative application channels include the GDRFA Dubai website, Amer Service Centers, ICP Customer Happiness Centres, and authorized typing centers.
Converting to an Employment Visa
Once you secure a job offer, your employer handles the conversion process. You do not need to leave the UAE.
Conversion Process
- Receive a formal job offer letter from the UAE employer
- Sign the employment contract
- Employer applies for a work permit through MOHRE
- Status change processed (AED 500 fee)
- Complete a medical fitness test at an approved center
- Register for Emirates ID (biometrics)
- Residence visa stamped in passport
The entire conversion process takes 2-4 weeks. Your employer pays all visa-related costs under UAE law. Make sure to begin the conversion before your Job Seeker Visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Related: Green Visa vs Golden Visa: Which is Right for You?
Job Search Tips for Dubai
Before You Arrive
- Prepare a UAE-format CV (include photo, nationality, visa status)
- Optimize your LinkedIn profile with a clear headline and location set to the UAE
- Register on UAE job portals: Bayt, GulfTalent, LinkedIn, Indeed UAE, Naukrigulf
- Research target companies and identify hiring managers
During Your Stay
- Attend industry events, job fairs, and networking meetups
- Visit the company offices for walk-in applications, where accepted
- Connect with recruitment agencies specializing in your field
- Follow up on applications within 3-5 days
- Keep track of your visa expiry date and plan accordingly
High-Demand Sectors in 2026
- Technology and IT (AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing)
- Healthcare (doctors, nurses, specialists)
- Finance and Fintech
- Engineering (construction, renewable energy)
- Digital Marketing and E-commerce
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
Related: UAE Golden Visa for Professionals: Salary & Qualification Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a UAE Job Seeker Visa?
No. The Job Seeker Visa only permits you to search for employment, attend interviews, and explore opportunities. Working without a valid employment visa is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on re-entry to the UAE.
Can I extend my Job Seeker Visa?
The 60-day and 90-day visas can typically be extended once for a similar period without leaving the country. However, continuous extensions are not allowed. Once your visa expires (including extension), you must exit and can apply again if you still meet the eligibility criteria.
Do I need to leave the UAE to convert to an employment visa?
No. Once you receive a job offer, your employer can apply for a status change within the UAE. You complete the employment visa process (medical test, Emirates ID, visa stamping) without exiting the country.
Can I bring my family on a Job Seeker Visa?
No. The Job Seeker Visa is a single-entry permit for the applicant only. You cannot sponsor family members until you secure employment and obtain a residence visa. Once employed, you can apply for family sponsorship if you meet the minimum salary requirements.
What happens if I do not find a job before my visa expires?
You must leave the UAE before your visa expires to avoid overstay penalties (AED 50 per day). You can apply for a new Job Seeker Visa from outside the country if you still meet the eligibility requirements. There is no limit on how many times you can use it.
Official Sources
- UAE Government Portal: u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/visit-visas/jobseeker-visit-visa
- ICP Smart Services: smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- GDRFA Dubai: gdrfad.gov.ae
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): mohre.gov.ae
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. UAE visa regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with official government sources (u.ae, ICP, GDRFA) before making decisions.
Last Updated: February 2026