JAFZA visa options can be confusing, with nine types available. Over 30,000 companies operate in JAFZA, each needing the right visa (Source: JAFZA Official Website). Did you know that 34% of UAE businesses rely on JAFZA visas? This guide breaks down the types, costs, and steps to apply for, renew, or cancel your JAFZA visa easily. Ready to find the best fit for your business? Let’s review your options in more detail.
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What is a JAFZA visa?
A JAFZA visa is a UAE residency visa issued to individuals involved in business activities within the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA). It is granted to investors, company owners, and employees of businesses operating in this zone. The visa allows the holder to live, work, and sponsor family members in the UAE. It is specifically designed for those setting up or working in companies based in JAFZA, a key hub for international trade and commerce.
9 JAFZA Visa Types: Which Can Your Company Sponsor?
If you run a business in Jebel Ali Free Zone, understanding which JAFZA visa you can sponsor is essential. Each visa fits a different job, and choosing the right one helps your company avoid delays and stay compliant.
Here’s a simple list of the most common JAFZA visa types available for companies:
1. Employment Visa
Work Visa For full-time employees. Valid for up to 3 years. Most used across the zone.
2. Investor or Partner Visa
For company owners or shareholders named on the license. Connects directly to business ownership.
3. Freelance Visa
Freelancer visa For solo workers with freelance permits in tech, media, or creative fields. Not tied to one employer.
4. Dependent Visa
Allows employees or investors to bring their families. Requires salary proof and housing documents.
5. Visit Visa
Visit Visa Used for short business visits, meetings, or training. Lasts 30 to 90 days. Not for full-time work.
6. Mission Visa
For temporary work or probation roles. Valid for 90 days. Can be renewed once if needed.
7. Internship Visa
Given to students in approved training programs. Valid during the training period only.
8. Driver Visa
For company drivers transporting goods or executives. Requires proof of vehicle use or role.
9. Housemaid Visa (for executives only)
Limited to senior staff with high salaries. Approval is based on work title and income.
All JAFZA visa applications must go through the Dubai Trade Portal. Each visa has its process, timeline, and cost. Always check the latest rules with JAFZA or your PRO before applying. This keeps your business operating smoothly and helps you prevent mistakes.
JAFZA Visa Types Overview
| Visa Category | Primary Purpose | Typical Validity | Key Eligibility Basis |
| Employment Residence Visa | Working for a JAFZA company | 1-3 years | Valid job offer, sponsor compliance, suitability |
| Investor/Shareholder Visa | Investing in/owning shares in a JAFZA company | 3 years | JAFZA company registration, minimum investment |
| Dependent Visa | Sponsoring immediate family | Linked to sponsor’s visa | Income and accommodation proof, valid relationship |
| Mission Visa | Temporary work assignments | 90 days (+90 days extension) | Temporary contract, sponsor quota |
| Visit Visa (Business) | Business-related activities | 30 days | Business purpose, sponsor undertaking |
Who is eligible for a JAFZA visa?
If you’re planning to live, work, or invest in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), understanding who is eligible for a JAFZA visa is key. Below is a breakdown of the main criteria that determine who can apply:
1. Business Owners and Investors
- Business Owners: Entrepreneurs with a company registered in JAFZA can sponsor themselves and their employees for a visa.
- Investors: Individuals investing in a JAFZA company or owning shares in it are eligible for a visa. They can also sponsor their dependents.
2. Company Employees
- Full-time Employees: Employees working for companies registered within JAFZA can apply for a visa, provided the company sponsors them.
3. Skilled Professionals
- Specialized Workers: Skilled professionals and managers, especially those in technical or managerial roles, are eligible, provided they meet the company’s needs.
4. Freelancers and Contractors
- Freelancers: Individuals working as freelancers in sectors such as tech, media, or design can apply for a visa, depending on their contract and role.
5. Dependents
- Family Members: Spouses and children of JAFZA visa holders can be sponsored for residency. Some cases may include parents or other dependents.
6. UAE Residents
- Existing Residents: Individuals who already live in the UAE and want to transfer to a JAFZA visa can apply if they meet the criteria.
7. Short-Term Workers
- Mission Visa: Available for those entering JAFZA for short-term assignments, including consultants or project-based work, typically lasting 90 days, extendable by 90 more.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Your company must be registered with JAFZA.
- The employee must have a valid full-time job offer from a JAFZA-licensed company.
- Required documentation like a job offer letter, passport, and other identification must be accurate and complete.
For a smooth visa process, it’s essential to understand these requirements. Always check with JAFZA or a Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the most current eligibility criteria.
12 Simple Steps to Apply for a New JAFZA Employment Visa
Want to hire staff in Jebel Ali Free Zone? You must follow a clear process to sponsor their JAFZA visa. Each step counts. This guide shows you how to do it right from start to finish.
- First, register your company on the Dubai Trade Portal
- Check that your JAFZA lease and immigration card are still valid
- Apply for an e-quota to get visa slots for new staff
- Upload the signed job offer on the portal for JAFZA review
- Submit the employee’s passport copy and photo
- Apply for the entry permit through the same portal
- Once approved, send the permit to the employee
- The employee should enter the UAE within 60 days or request a status change
- Book the medical fitness test and biometric scan after arrival
- While waiting for results, apply for the Emirates ID
- After medical clearance, submit documents for residence visa stamping
- Collect the passport once the visa is stamped and begin onboarding
To guarantee a seamless application procedure, keep in mind these crucial reminders:
- For all visa-related procedures, use the Dubai Trade Portal.
- Make sure your documents are correct and not expired
- Check with your company’s PRO or JAFZA for the latest updates
- Start early to avoid any last-minute issues
This is how to apply for a new JAFZA employment visa without confusion or delay. Every step is simple. All you have to do is keep informed and follow the instructions.
What Documents Are Needed for a JAFZA Visa?
If you’re planning to apply for a JAFZA visa, having the right documents ready makes your life easier. Missing paperwork leads to unwanted delays, so here’s a straightforward checklist to help you:
- Passport Copy: Clear copy, that is good and valid for at least six months.
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent, color photo with a plain white background. Check photo rules carefully.
- Signed Job Offer Letter: Signed by the employee, detailing job role and salary.
- Attested Education Certificates: Needed for specific roles; confirm if required.
- Visa Application Form: Fill it out completely, matching passport details exactly.
- Medical Fitness Certificate: Obtain this from approved UAE medical centers after arriving in the country.
- Emirates ID Application: Submit application receipt and completed forms after medical clearance.
- Valid Immigration Card: Ensure your company’s card is current to avoid delays.
- Company Trade License: Clearly readable, valid trade license from Jebel Ali Free Zone.
- Entry Permit: Approved online through the Dubai Trade portal; essential for entry.
- Lease Agreement: Proof that your business holds a valid lease in JAFZA.
- Visa Cancellation Paper (if applicable): Required if the employee previously held a UAE visa.
Always double-check your documents with your company’s PRO or directly with JAFZA. Keeping everything accurate and handy ensures a smooth, delay-free visa application process
Required Documents Checklist for Employment Visa Entry Permit (EVEP Application)
| Document | Notes |
| Valid Passport Copy | must last for a minimum of six months. |
| Latest Colour Photograph | 4.5cm x 3.5cm, white background, clear features. |
| Passport Page 2 Copy | Optional. |
| Attested Education Certificate (Bachelor’s degree) | Required for Managerial/Professional roles. Must be attested by UAE MoFA. |
| NOC from Gold & Diamond Management | Required only for employees of companies in the gold and diamond sector. |
| Attested Medical Report (from Origin Country) | Required only for Sri Lankan & Indonesian nationals applying while outside the UAE. The UAE Embassy in the country of origin must attest it. |
| Cancellation Paper (of current visa) | Required only if the applicant is currently on a dependent visa and needs to cancel it while holding it (see ‘Holding Dependent Visa’ process below). |
| Offer Letter | Required only if applying for the ‘Service letter to hold dependent visa’ (see below). |
| Signed Employment Contract | May be required later in the process, but sometimes requested upfront. |
| Bank Guarantee (BG) / Insurance Details | BG in JAFZA format from UAE bank, or proof of enrollment in the JAFZA insurance scheme is mandatory unless waived (e.g., for owners/managers in some cases). |
Required Documents Checklist for Dependent Visas
| Document | Notes |
| Sponsor’s Passport Copy & Visa Copy | |
| Original Emirates ID | |
| Sponsor’s Salary Certificate | JAFZA-issued NOC/Salary Certificate or Labour Contract (if applicable). |
| Attested Marriage Certificate | For sponsoring spouse. Must be attested by MoFA in the origin country & UAE MoFA, legally translated to Arabic. |
| Attested Birth Certificate(s) | For sponsoring children. Must be attested by MoFA in the origin country & UAE MoFA, legally translated to Arabic. |
| Dependent(s) Passport Copies | Must be valid for at least 6 months. |
| Dependent(s) Passport-size Photos | White background. |
| Registered Tenancy Contract (Ejari) / Title Deed | Proof of suitable accommodation in the sponsor’s name. |
| Recent Utility Bill (e.g., DEWA) | Further proof of address. |
| Sponsor’s IBAN (Bank Account Number) | For processing payments/refunds. |
| Medical Fitness Test Results | For dependents aged 18 and above. Conducted in UAE after entry. |
| Health Insurance Policy for Dependents | Mandatory in Dubai. |
| Additional (If Applicable) | |
| NOC from Father | If the mother is sponsoring children. |
| NOC from Biological Parent | For sponsoring stepchildren. |
| Proof of Sole Support / Dependency | For sponsoring parents. |
| Sponsor’s Birth Certificate | For sponsoring parents. |
| Parent’s Marriage Certificate | For sponsoring parents. |
| Divorce/Death Certificate | If sponsoring only one parent. |
| Legal Adoption Papers | For sponsoring adopted children. |
| Daughter Unmarried Declaration | For daughters over 18. |
| Proof of Study Continuation | For sons over 18 being sponsored. |
How Much Does a JAFZA Visa Cost?
When applying for a JAFZA employment visa, understanding the full cost involved is crucial for budgeting. Several fees and factors contribute to the total cost. Here’s a clear, simple breakdown of what to expect:
Visa Application Fee
The initial cost for applying for the visa varies, depending on the employee’s job and role. It’s a standard processing fee.
Company Fees
Your company might incur additional fees, including business registration and any associated costs for sponsoring employees.
Medical Fitness Test
- A mandatory medical examination is required.
- Depending on the clinic, this usually costs between AED 760 and AED 800.
Entry Permit Fee
- One of the most important steps in the procedure is the admission permit
- The cost for the permit can range from AED 2,378 (1-year visa) to AED 2,678 (2-year visa).
- Additional charges apply if the employee is already in the UAE or over 60 years old.
Emirates ID Application
- Once the visa is approved, applying for an Emirates ID is mandatory.
- This typically costs around AED 370 to AED 390.
Residence Visa Stamping:
- After passing the medical and applying for the Emirates ID, the employee’s residence visa needs to be stamped.
- This can cost anywhere between AED 1,100 to AED 1,630.
Renewal Fees
When the visa expires, renewal costs are generally lower than the initial application.
Other Costs
If applicable, the company may need to provide a Bank Guarantee or health insurance, which can add to the overall cost.
The total cost for a JAFZA visa typically ranges from AED 4,600 to AED 7,000+, excluding insurance or bank guarantees. To get an accurate estimate, always consult with JAFZA or your PRO for up-to-date pricing.
By understanding these fees in advance, you can plan your budget accordingly and avoid surprises during the application process.
JAFZA Visa Renewal: 11 Simple Steps to Follow in 2025
Renewing your JAFZA visa on time ensures your stay in the UAE remains legal. Follow these simple steps to avoid delays and keep everything in order:
- Start Early: At least 30 days before the expiration of your visa, start the renewal process.
- Log In to Dubai Trade Portal: Use your company’s account to access the portal for the renewal application.
- Check Validity: Confirm that your company’s trade license and immigration card are up-to-date.
- Renew E-Quota: If necessary, renew the e-quota based on your employee count.
- Submit Medical Test: Upload a new medical fitness report from an authorized UAE center.
- Update Emirates ID: While waiting for the medical results, apply for your Emirates ID renewal.
- Ensure Accuracy: Double-check passport details to avoid mistakes that could cause delays.
- Apply for Residence Visa Renewal: After medical clearance, apply for visa renewal.
- Upload Documents: Include your passport copy, job contract, and any other required documents.
- Visa Stamping: Once approved, get the visa stamped at the immigration office.
- Collect Your Passport: Finally, pick up the stamped passport and update your company records.
By following these steps and staying on top of your documentation, you can ensure a hassle-free JAFZA visa renewal. Always consult your PRO for the latest updates and to ensure smooth processing.
How to Cancel a JAFZA Visa: Simple Steps, Documents, and Costs
Canceling a JAFZA visa doesn’t have to be hard. If you follow the right steps, stay prepared, and act early, the process is quick and stress-free. This guide is written in short, clear sentences for easy reading and better ranking. This is all the information you will require in 2025.
- Cancel any dependent visas before starting the main process
- Do this through GDRFA to avoid system errors later
- Gather required documents in advance to save time
- You’ll need a passport copy and a residence permit copy
- The company must also submit an end-of-service letter
- Log in to www.dubaitrade.ae using your company account
- Go to: Employee Services > Residence Permit > RP Cancellation
- Choose “Cancel Employee RP – Approval”
- Fill out the form and upload all documents
- Pay the fee using the portal’s online payment system
- Inside UAE: approx. AED 320
- Outside UAE: approx. AED 720
- If you request urgent processing, extra charges apply
- JAFZA usually completes the process in 3 working days
- Once canceled, you’ll get an email confirmation
- There is now a 30-day grace period for the employee.
- Some UAE laws may allow up to 60 days
- Confirm this to avoid fines for overstaying
- The employee must exit or switch visa status before the deadline
- Always check updates with your PRO or company admin
The Summary
Choosing the right JAFZA visa is key to keeping your business on track. With nine types to pick from, knowing the steps, costs, and documents helps you avoid delays. Whether you’re applying, renewing, or canceling, each detail matters. Don’t wait—review your options now and act early. Need help? Business Link can guide you through the full process for Business setup in uae freezones. Start today and make sure your business runs smoothly and within UAE rules.
FAQ’s
How long is a JAFZA visa valid?
A JAFZA visa’s validity depends on the type:
- Entry Permit: Valid for 60 days.
- Residence Visa: Typically valid for 3 years.
- Visit Visa: Ranges from 30 to 90 days.
- Mission Visa: Valid for up to 90 days, renewable.
Shorter 1-year and 2-year options are also available, depending on the specific visa and the fee structure. Always check with JAFZA or your PRO for the most accurate and updated information.
Can I switch jobs if I have a JAFZA visa?
Yes, you can switch jobs while holding a JAFZA visa, but the process involves canceling your current visa. Since a JAFZA visa is tied to your employer, it must be canceled when you leave. After cancellation, your new employer will need to apply for a new visa through JAFZA. Ensure you complete all required steps, including obtaining the necessary documentation and approval from your new employer, to maintain a legal working status. Always check with JAFZA or your consultant for specific procedures.
JAFZA Visit Visa vs Mission Visa: Which One Do You Need?
JAFZA provides two types of short-term visas: the Visit Visa Entry Permit and the Mission Visa.
- Visit Visa Entry Permit (VV EP):
- Validity: 30 days or 90 days.
- 30 days cost AED 1,103, while 90 days cost AED 2,153.
- Extra Requirements: Some applicants may need an Arabic Letter of Undertaking. Women under 25 may have additional rules.
- Mission Visa:
- Validity: 90 days, with one possible renewal.
- Best For: Short-term job assignments or business tasks.
Always confirm specific requirements and eligibility before applying.
