September 2, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: The Golden Visa program of the United Arab Emirates offers long-term residency to investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs. A frequently posed inquiry among residents pertains to whether a change in employment necessitates a modification of the visa. Authorities and legal professionals affirm that holders of the UAE Golden Visa holders are not required to cancel or alter their residency visa when transitioning between employers.
This visa operates on a self-sponsored basis, indicating that it is not associated with any specific company. As a result, the residency remains valid regardless of whether an individual resigns, faces termination, or opts for a career hiatus. However, it is essential to note that the Golden Visa work permit must be updated.
In the UAE, all employees must possess a valid work permit, which, for UAE Golden Visa holders, is obtained by the employing company through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
The differentiation between the Golden Visa and a work permit is significant. The Golden Visa facilitates residency status, whereas the Golden Visa work permit governs the ability to engage in employment. It is imperative to note that a holder of a Golden Visa is not permitted to commence a new job legally in the absence of a work permit, despite the validity of their residency visa.
This framework is supported by existing labor legislation. Specifically, Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, Article 7, along with Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, Article 6(1)(j), stipulates that individuals holding a Golden Visa are required to obtain a Golden Visa work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) when they are employed by an officially registered company.
Rules for Changing Jobs
The procedure for a Golden Visa holder who accepts a new employment position is characterized by its simplicity. Initially, the individual’s previous employer is responsible for canceling the existing work permit. Following this, the new employer submits an application for a Golden Visa work permit, including the employment contract and all necessary documentation. Upon receiving approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), the individual is permitted to commence work.
Moreover, UAE Golden Visa holders benefit from exemptions regarding the typical restrictions applicable during probationary periods. According to Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, Article 11(3), these individuals are allowed to change employment freely, even while still within their probation period. This provision empowers professionals to seize new employment opportunities without unnecessary delays.
Employers are required to submit various documents to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) when applying for a new Golden Visa work permit. The documents necessary for this application process include a passport-sized photograph, a passport that remains valid for a minimum of six months, a copy of the Golden Visa, and a signed employment contract.
Additionally, educational certificates must be submitted; these documents require attestation based on the skill level associated with the position. For regulated professions, such as those in medicine, law, or education, the provision of a valid professional license is imperative.
This framework establishes clear guidelines for both employers and employees. By eliminating the need for companies to sponsor residency visas for UAE Golden Visa holders of the Golden Visa, the process alleviates administrative responsibilities. Employers need only to focus on obtaining the Golden Visa work permit. Furthermore, employees benefit by maintaining their long-term residency status, which remains intact regardless of changes in their employment circumstances.
Impact on Professionals and Businesses
The Golden Visa system’s flexibility has positioned the United Arab Emirates as an appealing destination for skilled professionals. The assurance of residency allows employees to transition between positions or take career breaks without jeopardizing their legal residency status. Additionally, the stability of this program extends to families and dependents, who remain unaffected by changes in employment.
From the perspective of employers, the Golden Visa streamlines the recruitment process. Companies experience expedited hiring since they are not required to manage visa sponsorship; their primary focus shifts to obtaining the necessary Golden Visa work permit. Consequently, many businesses are motivated to seek out highly qualified candidates who possess Golden Visas.
The categories of the Golden Visa program that benefit from this streamlined process include property investors, skilled professionals in designated priority sectors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and distinguished students. It is important to note that across all categories, the same principle applies: while the Golden Visa work permit may change when employment shifts, the residency visa itself remains valid.
Legal experts emphasize that, although the regulatory framework is well-defined, various challenges may still emerge. Issues such as delays in the cancellation of existing work permits, insufficient awareness among human resources teams, and uncertainties regarding document requirements can hinder the procedural efficiency. To mitigate these potential setbacks, it is advisable for both employees and employers to maintain close collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) or licensed service providers.
Furthermore, the government of the United Arab Emirates perceives the Golden Visa initiative as an integral component of a broader strategy aimed at attracting and retaining international talent. By decoupling residency from employment and granting UAE Golden Visa holders the flexibility to transition between jobs, the nation enhances its status as a prominent center for business and innovation.
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