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🛂 UAE Work Visa for Pakistani Citizens (2026)

Eligibility, documents and process — plus a free fee calculator on the main /visa page.

⚡ VoA with qualifying visa
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Quick answer

Pakistani passport holders are eligible for UAE visa-on-arrival only with a valid US, UK, EU, Australian, or Canadian visa or residence permit. Otherwise a pre-arranged Work Visa is required, obtainable through an airline, licensed travel agency, or UAE-based sponsor.

Eligibility for Pakistani passport holders

Visa-on-arrival is available only to Pakistani passport holders carrying a valid US, UK, EU, Australian, or Canadian visa or residence permit. Standard Pakistani passport holders require a pre-arranged visa.

Pakistan hosts one of the UAE's largest expatriate communities.

About the UAE Work Visa

Employer-sponsored residence visa that lets the holder live and work in the UAE for the duration of their employment contract.

Validity
Typically 2 years; tied to the employment contract
Extendable?
Yes, subject to current rules
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Typical documents

  • Passport copy with at least 6 months validity
  • Attested educational certificates (degree, diploma)
  • Signed employment contract from a UAE-based employer
  • Recent passport-size photographs
  • Medical fitness test
  • Emirates ID application
  • Health insurance (typically employer-provided)
  • Work permit or entry permit issued by MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority

How Pakistani citizens typically apply

Applications for Pakistani passport holders are typically routed through the following authorized channels:

  • Licensed Pakistani travel agencies
  • Emirates Airlines
  • flydubai
  • UAE-based PRO services

Nearest UAE diplomatic mission: Islamabad (Embassy); Karachi (Consulate).

Notes specific to Pakistani applicants
  • Applicants are typically asked to provide a Pakistani national identity card (CNIC) in addition to the passport.
  • A confirmed return ticket and a verifiable residential address in Pakistan are standard requirements.
  • Work and residence visa processing involves additional sponsor / employer verification steps.
Common rejection reasons
  • Failed medical fitness test
  • Unattested educational certificates
  • Employer not in good standing with MOHRE
  • Previous absconding or labour case record
  • Mismatched job title vs. qualifications
Process notes
  • UAE law requires the EMPLOYER to cover all work-visa costs, including renewals. Employees should not be asked to pay these out of pocket.
  • Free zone employment visas typically cost less than mainland employment visas.
  • For an estimate of current fees, use the calculator on the main UAE Visa page.

Get current fees and currency conversion

Visa fees change periodically and are quoted in AED. Use these free tools to estimate costs in your currency:

Planning the move itself?

FAQ
Do Pakistani citizens need a visa to enter the UAE?

Visa-on-arrival is available only to Pakistani passport holders carrying a valid US, UK, EU, Australian, or Canadian visa or residence permit. Standard Pakistani passport holders require a pre-arranged visa.

What is a UAE Work Visa and who is it for?

Employer-sponsored residence visa that lets the holder live and work in the UAE for the duration of their employment contract.

How long is a UAE Work Visa valid?

A UAE Work Visa is typically valid for Typically 2 years; tied to the employment contract. It can be extended subject to current rules.

What documents do Pakistani applicants need for a UAE Work Visa?

Typical documents include: Passport copy with at least 6 months validity; Attested educational certificates (degree, diploma); Signed employment contract from a UAE-based employer; Recent passport-size photographs. Specific requirements may vary by sponsor and emirate.

How much does a UAE Work Visa cost for Pakistani applicants?

Fees vary by visa duration, sponsor, and processing speed. For an up-to-date estimate, use the free UAE Visa Fee Calculator on the main /visa page.

Sources & Methodology
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