Breakdown
How it works
A mainland employment visa costs roughly AED 3,000–7,000 all-in: work permit (AED 300–5,000 by skill level and company category), entry permit AED 1,200, medical AED 320–750, Emirates ID AED 370 for two years, status change AED 640 if done in-country, plus insurance. Family visas cost about AED 2,800–3,500 per dependant plus a refundable AED 3,000 deposit each and insurance.
Formula
Worked example
Skill level 1 mainland employee with 2 dependants and AED 1,500 insurance each: employee ≈ AED 5,330; dependants ≈ AED 4,330 each → AED 14,000 plus AED 6,000 deposits.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for family visas?
The employee, unless the contract provides a family visa benefit. Minimum salary to sponsor family: AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation).
Why do free zone costs differ?
Free zones bundle visa costs into packages (AED 3,500–6,500 per visa) and allocate visa quotas by office space.
Are visa fees refundable if I leave early?
No — government fees are non-refundable; the dependant deposit is returned on cancellation.