September 18, 2025 | Dubai: Dubai is stepping up its efforts to attract talent, and one of the biggest changes is how the Jobseekers visa is making it easier to hunt for Jobs in Dubai. For many looking to move here, Dubai Jobs used to mean needing a sponsor before arrival. Now, the Jobseekers visa lets qualified individuals explore opportunities first, without that sponsor requirement.
If you’re someone considering applying for Jobs, this change matters. The Jobseekers visa is designed so that you can arrive, network, attend interviews, and try to land work without being tied down by sponsorship rules. For many, that makes Jobs feel more accessible in Dubai, more flexible and less risky when you don’t yet have an offer.
In this article, we explain how the Jobseekers visa works, who qualifies for it, what documents you’ll need, what costs to expect, and tips to improve your chances at finding Jobs using this visa route.
What Is the Jobseekers Visa?
- Introduced in April 2022 under the UAE Cabinet’s updated visa framework.
- Officially called the Job Exploration Entry Visa or Jobseeker visit visa.
- Allows stay in the UAE for 60, 90 or 120 days without needing an employer sponsor, giving time to explore Jobs, apply, interview.
Who Qualifies for Jobseekers Visa
If you want to use the Jobseekers visa for pursuing Jobs in Dubai, these are typical eligibility requirements:
- Skilled professionals classified under level 1, 2, or 3 according to the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. Recent graduates from globally ranked universities (often top 500) may have extra leverage.
- Valid passport (often with at least six months validity).
- Fulfil financial guarantee or proof of funds as specified.
How to Apply
Here’s how you can apply if you want to explore Jobs under the Jobseekers visa:
- Visit the UAE government portal (u.ae) or GDRFA-Dubai website.
- Select the jobseeker/job exploration visit visa service.
- Fill in the application: personal info, passport, degree certificates, etc.
- Pay visa fee depending on the duration (fees vary for 60, 90, 120 days).
- Wait for processing. Once granted, you can legally stay in Dubai (or UAE in general) to apply for Jobs in Dubai, network and attend interviews.
Costs & Other Details
- For visa of jobseekers, a stay of 60, 90 or 120 days is allowed.
- Fees differ depending on the duration. For example, in Dubai, the fee for 60 days might be around Dh200, for longer periods it goes up. Additional deposits or service charges (security deposits, guarantee fees) may apply.
- You will need attested documents, degree credentials recognised by UAE authorities.
Tips for Visa Holders Looking for Jobs
- Use the time effectively: schedule interviews, network, visit prospective employers.
- Make sure your résumé/CV is updated and tailored to Dubai corporate culture. Highlight skills and qualifications.
- Be prepared with attested educational credentials and translations if needed.
- Keep track of visa expiry, so you can either convert to a full work visa or find employment before the visit visa lapses.
What This Means for Jobseekers?
For those seeking Jobs here in Dubai, the Jobseekers visa offers a major advantage: you no longer need an employer lined up before you arrive. That reduces risk and cost. It also signals that the UAE is trying to make its job market more accessible.
If you are qualified, competent, and prepared, this visa route puts you in a better position to compete for Jobs without being locked out by sponsorship requirements.
The Job seekers visa is changing how people approach for Jobs here in Dubai. It offers more flexibility, more dignity in job hunting, and more opportunity. But it’s not a guarantee, success depends on how well you prepare, present yourself, and use the time.
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