The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has simplified the procedures for 13 types of work permits under the government’s Zero Bureaucracy programme. Gulf News reported the change on 8 November 2026. For workers and employers, it means less paperwork and faster online applications.
What Has Changed
| Announced by | Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) |
| Programme | UAE Government Zero Bureaucracy initiative |
| Permits covered | 13 work permit types |
| Supporting documents | Requirement to submit supporting documents removed |
| Application form | Data fields cut by 75% to 97% for some permits |
| How to apply | Online, through MoHRE’s unified digital channels |
| Processing time | Shorter (MoHRE has not published exact figures) |
The 13 Work Permit Types
- Recruiting a worker from abroad – valid for two years
- Transfer of a worker already in the UAE – valid for two years
- Workers sponsored by their families – valid for two years
- Part-time work – can be with more than one employer, valid for two years
- Freelance work – self-sponsored, without an employer
- Temporary assignment at another establishment
- Mission permit for temporary or project-based work from abroad
- Private tutoring
- Golden Residency visa holders
- Juvenile work for ages 15 to under 18 who are already in the UAE
- Student training or employment for ages 15 and above
- UAE nationals and GCC citizens – valid for two years
- National trainee permit for UAE nationals
What It Means for Expat Workers
- Changing jobs inside the UAE: the transfer permit needs less paperwork, so moving to a new employer should be quicker.
- Wives, husbands and children on a family visa: the family-sponsored permit lets them work without changing their residence visa, and the process is now simpler.
- Extra income: part-time and freelance permits are easier to get, which helps people who want a second job or to work for themselves.
- Coming from India: the permit to recruit a worker from abroad is handled by your employer. You never need to pay for it.
Important: Who Pays for the Work Permit?
Under UAE labour law, the employer pays for recruitment and the work permit. If an agent or “HR” asks you for money for a UAE work permit or visa, treat it as a warning sign. Check the offer with our Fake Job Checker before you pay anything.
How to Check Your Work Permit
- Use the MoHRE app or the MoHRE website (mohre.gov.ae)
- Call MoHRE on 600 590 000
- Ask your employer for your work permit number and check its status yourself
Planning to change jobs? Work out your end-of-service money first with the free UAE Gratuity Calculator, and see the latest verified jobs in the UAE.
Source: Gulf News report on MoHRE’s work permit changes, 8 November 2026. Details may be updated by MoHRE; always check the official MoHRE channels.