What is the procedure for obtaining visas and work permits in SAIF Zone?

Obtaining visas and work permits for employees and investors in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is a crucial step in the business setup process. SAIF Zone offers a streamlined process to facilitate the issuance of visas and work permits for both company employees and investors. Here is a step-by-step procedure for obtaining visas and work permits in SAIF Zone:

1. Company Formation: Before initiating the visa and work permit application process, the business must complete its company formation within SAIF Zone. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals, securing office space, and registering the company with SAIF Zone authorities.

2. Employment Contract: Once the company is established, employers should draft employment contracts for their prospective employees. These contracts should outline the terms and conditions of employment, including salary, benefits, and job responsibilities.

3. Visa Application:

  • Submit a visa application for each prospective employee to the SAIF Zone Authority. The application typically includes the following documents:
    • Passport copies of the employee(s)
    • Passport-sized photographs of the employee(s)
    • A copy of the employment contract
    • A copy of the employee’s academic and professional qualifications
    • A medical fitness certificate (this may be required later in the process)
  • SAIF Zone authorities will review the visa applications and issue an entry permit for the employee(s) if all requirements are met. The entry permit allows the employee(s) to enter the UAE and initiate the visa process.

4. Status Adjustment:

  • After entering the UAE on an entry permit, the employee must undergo a medical examination to obtain a health certificate from an approved medical center. This health certificate is a mandatory requirement for the visa process.

5. Emirates ID Registration:

  • Once the health certificate is obtained, the next step is to apply for an Emirates ID card. The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity document for all UAE residents.

6. Visa Stamping:

  • After receiving the Emirates ID, the company submits the employee’s passport and relevant documents to the UAE immigration authorities for visa stamping. This process involves obtaining a residency visa sticker in the employee’s passport.

7. Medical Insurance:

  • Companies are required to provide medical insurance coverage for their employees as per UAE labor laws. Ensure that each employee has valid health insurance coverage.

8. Entry into the UAE:

  • Upon obtaining the residency visa, the employee can legally work and reside in the UAE. They should return to the UAE using the newly stamped residency visa.

9. Visa Renewal:

  • UAE residency visas are typically valid for a specific period, such as two or three years. Companies must ensure that employee visas are renewed before they expire to avoid penalties or legal issues. The renewal process follows a similar procedure as the initial visa issuance.

10. Investor Visas: – Investors and shareholders of companies in SAIF Zone can also obtain investor visas. The specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the share capital and structure of the company. Generally, investor visas are granted to individuals who hold a significant share in the company, and they are subject to certain financial and administrative conditions.

It’s important to note that visa and work permit procedures may evolve over time, and the requirements can vary based on factors such as the nationality of the employee, the type of employment contract, and changes in immigration regulations. Therefore, it’s advisable to work closely with the SAIF Zone Authority and potentially engage with BizDaddy consultants to ensure compliance with the latest visa and work permit requirements and regulations in SAIF Zone and the broader UAE.