Dubai: Are you currently on your spouse’s visa, and wondering if you can work without the hassle of cancelling or switching visas?
The answer is – yes. It is legal to work under your husband’s or wife’s family visa, according to Musa Dayani, a Dubai-based public relations officer. However, you will need to ensure the rest of your paperwork is in order before clocking in at your job.
Dayani explained: “Normally, you will need a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your spouse, and a valid labour contract from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).”
The process involves your employer applying for a work permit from MOHRE, which authorises you to work without cancelling your visa, as well as a formal employment contract that must be signed by both you and your employer, and registered with MOHRE.
In order to apply for the work permit, you would have to provide the following documents to your employer:
A copy of your passport and visa.
A copy of your spouse’s passport and visa.
NOC from your spouse.
Educational certificates, if applicable.
Signed job offer letter.
Working without a work permit is illegal in the UAE, according to Article 60 of the Labour Law No. 33 of 2021 and its amendments. It carries penalties of at least Dh100,000 up to a maximum of Dh1 million.
