Dubai Job Seeker Visa (UAE) 2026: Duration, Eligibility, Documents, Fees & Step-by-Step Application Guide

Looking to land a job in Dubai in 2026? The UAE Job Seeker Visa—also known as the Job Exploration Entry Permit—lets qualified professionals enter the UAE without a sponsor to attend interviews, network, and secure employment. This guide covers eligibility, 60/90/120-day options, documents, official fees, processing time, and exactly how to apply online—plus pro tips to maximize your job search window.

What is the Dubai Job Seeker Visa?

The Job Seeker Visa is a single-entry permit (valid for 60, 90, or 120 days) enabling skilled professionals to enter the UAE, meet employers face-to-face, and complete formalities to convert to a work visa once they receive a job offer.

Who is Eligible in 2026? (MOHRE Skill Levels & Education)

To qualify, you generally need to meet any of the below:

• MOHRE Skill Levels 1–3 (managers/executives, professionals, technicians) and hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent; or

• Be a recent graduate (within 2 years) from a top-ranked global university (as recognized by UAE authorities) and hold a bachelor’s; and

• Provide prescribed financial guarantee (security deposit/financial proof) as required.

These criteria align with UAE’s official guidance on jobseeker permits and MOHRE skill classifications for 2025–2026.

MOHRE Skill Levels Explained

• Level 1: Legislators, managers, business executives

• Level 2: Professionals (scientific, technical, human fields)

• Level 3: Technicians (applied technical roles)

Graduates from Top Universities

If you graduated within 2 years from a university listed among approved global rankings and hold a bachelor’s, you may qualify even without UAE work experience.

Visa Duration Options: 60, 90 & 120 Days—Which One Should You Choose?

• 60 days: Best for candidates with pre-booked interviews and a tight employer pipeline.

• 90 days: Balanced choice to explore multiple roles, attend events, and complete paperwork.

• 120 days: Ideal for specialized roles (tech, engineering, healthcare) needing longer cycles and multiple interview stages.

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare clear scans (PDF/JPEG) and ensure consistency across all documents.

Photo, Passport & Education Proof

• Passport with 6+ months validity

• Recent photo (white background)

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher), preferably attested

• If applying as a recent graduate: proof of graduation (within 2 years)

Financial Proof & Health Insurance

• Financial guarantee (security deposit) or bank balance/means as per current policy

• Health insurance covering your entire stay

• CV/Resume and any professional certifications (recommended)

Official Government Fees in 2026

The official issuance fee for the Job Seeker Visa typically includes:

• Request/Application fee (around AED 100)

• Issue fee: AED 200 (60 days), AED 300 (90 days), AED 400 (120 days)

• 5% VAT on applicable components

• Service fees and a refundable security deposit/financial guarantee may apply depending on your case.

• e-Channel or smart services platform charges may also be added at checkout.

Note: Market prices you see online (e.g., AED 555–800+) often bundle government fees + service/processing fees + VAT and any deposit. Always compare the official fee breakdown vs agency total.

Processing Time & Validity Rules

• Typical processing: 2–10 working days after complete submission (varies by volume/verification).

• Single entry: Once you enter, your 60/90/120-day clock starts.

• Grace/overstay: Follow current overstay fines and grace rules; avoid overstays to protect your record.

• Status change: If you secure a job, your employer can change status internally to a work permit/residency.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online (ICP/GDRFA)

1. Create an account on UAE smart services portal/app.

2. Choose Job Exploration / Job Seeker entry permit (60/90/120 days).

3. Fill the form accurately (as per passport).

4. Upload documents: passport, photo, degree, financial proof, insurance.

5. Pay fees (request + issue + service + VAT + deposit, if applicable).

6. Submit & track your application.

7. Receive eVisa by email. Print or keep a digital copy for travel.

Converting a Job Seeker Visa to a Work Visa

Once you receive a job offer, your employer will:

• Apply for your work permit with MoHRE,

• Initiate medical screening & Emirates ID enrollment,

• Change status and issue your residency visa (no need to exit in most cases).
  Processing timelines vary by sector, company quota, and compliance checks.

Smart Job Search Plan for Your 60/90/120 Days

• Week 1–2: Finalize CV (UAE format), optimize LinkedIn, shortlist target companies and recruiters.

• Week 3–6: Attend walk-ins, industry meetups, and career fairs; schedule multiple interviews.

• Week 7–10+: Follow up, complete case studies/assessments, negotiate offers, begin work permit processing.

• Ongoing: Keep scanned documents ready; respond same-day to HR emails.

Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections (and How to Avoid Them)

• Incomplete/unclear documents → Upload high-resolution scans, ensure matching names.

• Degree not attested/mismatch → Get attestation early; include transcripts if needed.

• Insufficient financial proof → Provide robust bank statements or meet deposit criteria.

• Wrong category/skill level → Apply under the correct option and include role-relevant evidence.

• Insurance gaps → Purchase a valid policy covering the entire stay.

Why Apply with Dubai Visit Visa Online

• Guided application review to reduce avoidable rejections

• Up-to-date fee clarity and transparent breakdowns

• Priority filing and status tracking

• Advisory on status change once you secure your offer

Risk of DIY or unvetted agents: Inaccurate forms, missing financial proof, or the wrong duration can lead to rejections, delays, or extra costs. Work with a trusted, specialized team for a smoother outcome.

CTA: Start Your Dubai Job Seeker Visa Application

Ready to begin? Apply for your Dubai Job Seeker Visa now with our expert team—get document review, transparent fee guidance, and priority processing to maximize your 60/90/120-day job search window.
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