FLASH NEWSWork on Spouse Visa UAE: Fines Reach AED 1 Million

AED 1 Million Fine for Working on Spouse Visa Without MOHRE Permit

How to Legally Work in the UAE on Your Spouse’s Visa

You can take a job in the UAE while remaining on your husband’s or wife’s residency visa, avoiding the hassle of cancelling or transferring your sponsorship. Starting work before your paperwork is fully registered, however, carries severe legal penalties.

Working without an official work permit is illegal under Article 60 of Labour Law No. 33 of 2021 and its amendments. Fines for failing to secure the required authorization start at AED 100,000 and reach up to AED 1,000,000.

What You and Your Employer Must Prepare

Spouses residing on a family visa do not need to switch to an employer-sponsored residency visa to join a workplace. Dubai-based public relations officer Musa Dayani explained that the arrangement hinges on getting the correct permit: “Normally, you will need a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your spouse, and a valid labour contract from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).”

Your hiring company must apply directly to MOHRE for a dedicated work permit that authorizes your employment under your existing family residency. To process this permit, you must hand over five required items to your employer:

• A copy of your passport and visa
• A copy of your spouse’s passport and visa
• A written No-Objection Certificate (NOC) signed by your spouse
• Your educational certificates (where applicable)
• Your signed job offer letter

Once MOHRE approves the work permit, both you and your employer must sign a formal employment contract, which the company then registers with MOHRE before you officially begin duties.

Steps to Secure Your Permit Before Starting Work

1. Obtain the NOC: Request a signed No-Objection Certificate from your sponsoring husband or wife allowing you to take up employment.
2. Submit your paperwork: Pass your passport, visa, spouse’s visa documents, offer letter, and educational credentials to your employer’s HR department.
3. Verify the MOHRE application: Ensure your employer submits the work permit request to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
4. Sign and register the contract: Execute the official MOHRE labour contract generated by the ministry and confirm registration before clocking in.

💡 Quick FAQ & IntelligenceTap to Expand

Q: Do I need to cancel my spouse visa to take a job in the UAE?

Also ReadDomestic Worker Absconding Report in the UAE: Rules, Steps and Fees

No, you can remain on your spouse's visa while working, as long as your employer obtains a work permit for you from MOHRE.

Q: What fine applies for working on a spouse visa without a labour permit?

Article 60 of UAE Labour Law No. 33 of 2021 sets penalties ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1,000,000 for working without a valid permit.

Q: Which documents are needed for a spouse visa work permit application?

You must provide passport and visa copies for both you and your spouse, an NOC from your spouse, relevant educational certificates, and a signed offer letter.