Work Visa & Employment Rules for Nepalese in UAE: A Complete Guide

UAE Work Visa: The UAE is one of the top destinations for Nepalese job seekers looking for better career opportunities, higher salaries, and a tax-free income. However, securing a work visa and understanding employment rules is crucial to ensure a legal and safe work experience in the country.

Many Nepalese arrive in the UAE on a visit visa with the hope of finding a job and converting it into an employment visa. However, without the proper process and knowledge of UAE labor laws, many workers face legal and financial troubles.

In this guide, we will cover:
✅ How to convert a visit visa to an employment visa?
✅ What to check before signing a UAE job contract?
✅ Understanding UAE labor laws for expatriates.

By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the visa process and employment rights to ensure a smooth transition into the UAE job market.

1. How to Convert a Visit Visa to an Employment Visa?

Many Nepalese arrive in the UAE on a 30-day or 60-day visit visa to search for jobs. If you find an employer willing to hire you, they must process a work permit (employment visa).

1.1 Steps to Convert a Visit Visa to an Employment Visa

✅ Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a UAE Employer

• The company hiring you must be registered and licensed in the UAE.
• Make sure your offer letter states salary, benefits, and job role clearly.

✅ Step 2: Employer Applies for a Work Permit

• The employer will submit an application to MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) for a work permit approval.
• Once approved, you will receive a work permit (entry permit).

✅ Step 3: Change Visa Status (Inside UAE or via Visa Run)

• If you are already in the UAE on a visit visa, your employer can apply for a status change (without exiting the country).
• If a status change is not possible, you may need to exit the UAE (visa run) and return with your new employment entry permit.

✅ Step 4: Medical Test & Emirates ID Registration

• After entering on a work permit, you must undergo a medical fitness test (blood test and X-ray) at an authorized UAE health center.
• Apply for an Emirates ID through ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security).

✅ Step 5: Receive Your UAE Residence Visa

• Your employer will stamp your residence visa in your passport, usually valid for 2 years (private sector) or 3 years (free zone companies).
• Once your residence visa is stamped, you can legally work in the UAE.

1.2 Important Notes

⚠️ You cannot legally work on a visit visa – doing so can result in heavy fines and deportation.
⚠️ The employer must cover all visa costs – avoid paying for a work visa yourself.
⚠️ Ensure that your job contract is registered with MOHRE to avoid any legal issues.

2. What to Check Before Signing a UAE Job Contract?

Before signing a UAE job contract, Nepalese workers must carefully review the terms and conditions to avoid future disputes.

2.1 Key Points to Check in Your Job Contract

✅ Job Title & Description

• Ensure your actual job role and title match what was discussed.

✅ Salary & Benefits

• Verify the monthly salary (in AED) and additional benefits like housing, transport, and food allowance.

✅ Contract Type (Limited vs. Unlimited Contract)

• Limited Contract: Fixed-term contract (e.g., 2 years). Early termination can lead to fines or bans.
• Unlimited Contract: Open-ended contract. Can be ended with proper notice.

✅ Working Hours & Overtime Policy

• Standard UAE working hours: 8 hours/day or 48 hours/week.
• Overtime pay: 25%-50% extra for overtime hours.

✅ Probation Period

• Usually 3 to 6 months. During this time, employers can terminate without a long notice period.

✅ End-of-Service Benefits (Gratuity Pay)

• If you work 1+ years, you are entitled to gratuity pay when you leave the company.

✅ Notice Period for Resignation

• Standard 1-month notice if resigning.

✅ Recruitment Fees

• Employers should not charge any recruitment or visa fees. If asked to pay, it may be a scam.

2.2 Red Flags to Avoid in UAE Job Contracts

❌ Verbal agreements – Always insist on a written and signed contract.
❌ Fake job offers – Verify the company through MOHRE or free zone authorities.
❌ Low salaries with no benefits – Compare salaries using Bayt, GulfTalent, and Indeed.
❌ Restrictions on leaving the company – Some contracts have unfair penalties for resigning.

Always read and understand your contract before signing. If unsure, seek advice from a legal expert or Nepalese community groups in the UAE.

3. Understanding UAE Labor Laws for Expatriates

The UAE labor law protects expatriate workers by ensuring fair employment terms and outlining worker rights. Here are some of the most important UAE labor laws Nepalese workers should know:

3.1 Working Hours & Overtime Pay

✅ Standard Working Hours: 8 hours/day, 6 days/week.
✅ Overtime Pay:

• 25% extra for normal overtime
• 50% extra for night shift overtime (after 9 PM)
• Friday work = extra compensation

3.2 Annual Leave & Public Holidays

✅ 30 days of paid leave per year after completing 1 year of service.
✅ Paid public holidays based on UAE government announcements.

3.3 End-of-Service Benefits (Gratuity Pay)

✅ 1-5 years of service: 21 days’ salary per year.
✅ 5+ years of service: 30 days’ salary per year.

3.4 Job Termination Rules

✅ Notice Period: Minimum 30 days’ notice required.
✅ Unfair Dismissal: You can complain to MOHRE if terminated unfairly.

3.5 Workers’ Rights & Protection

✅ Employers must provide a legal work visa & health insurance.
✅ Confiscation of passport by employer is illegal.
✅ No forced labor – employees can resign with proper notice.

Final Thoughts

Securing a legal work visa and understanding UAE labor laws is crucial for Nepalese workers seeking jobs in the UAE.

🔹 Visit Visa to Work Visa: Secure a job offer, medical clearance, and residence visa before starting work.
🔹 Check Your Job Contract: Verify salary, working hours, overtime pay, and benefits before signing.
🔹 Know Your Rights: UAE labor laws protect workers from unfair treatment and ensure proper salaries, holidays, and end-of-service benefits.
🔹 Avoid Scams: Only apply for jobs through licensed agencies and trusted job portals.

By following the right legal procedures, Nepalese job seekers can enjoy a successful and secure career in the UAE. Remember, You need an employment visa which is the legal UAE Work Visa.