UAE Mission Visa 2026: Requirements, Eligibility & Application Process

Introduction to UAE Mission Visa

The UAE Mission Visa, also known as the UAE Mission Work Permit, is a short-term employment visa designed for expatriates who are hired to work on specific projects in the UAE. Unlike permanent employment visas, a mission visa is issued to probationary or project-based workers for a limited duration.

This visa is highly beneficial for companies that need skilled professionals for temporary projects without committing to long-term employment contracts.

READ ALSO: Detailed Guide on Domestic Workers Rights in UAE 2026

Types of UAE Mission Visa

1. Special Mission Entry Permit

• Short-term UAE visa valid for 16 days.

• Non-renewable and non-extendable.

• Issued by the Department of Naturalization and Foreign Affairs.

• Allows only a single entry into the UAE.

2. Mission Work Permit

• Issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

• Valid for 60 days, with possible renewal.

• Typically used by professionals hired for urgent short-term projects.

• Can extend up to 3 months depending on project needs.

• Provides eligibility for a labour contract and UAE labour card.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Mission Visa

Foreign nationals can only apply for a mission visa through a UAE-based employer or company registered with MOHRE.

Eligibility depends on:

• The nature of the company’s project or activity.

• Approval of quota for hiring expatriates.

• Registration of the employer with the Ministry of Labour/MOHRE.

• Employee being outside the UAE at the time of application.

📌 Note: Before 2018, employers had to deposit a bank guarantee of AED 24,000 per employee. However, this requirement has now been removed, making the process easier for companies.

READ ALSO: How to Apply for UAE Family Visa in 2026

Required Documents for UAE Mission Visa

To apply for a UAE mission visa, the following documents are needed:

• Copy of the company’s trade license

• Valid establishment card

• E-signature card of employer

• Passport copy of employee (must be valid for at least 6 months)

• Original passport (for medical tests)

• Recent passport-sized photographs (white background)

• Educational certificates attested (if required for the role)

• Employer’s UAE passport copy

UAE Mission Visa Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide 2026)

1. Employer applies for a 60-day mission work permit via MOHRE.

2. The company’s PRO (Public Relations Officer) manages the application process.

3. MOHRE reviews eligibility, quota, and company registration.

4. Employee signs the mission visa application form.

5. Once approved, a Mission Entry Permit is issued.

6. Employee enters the UAE with the entry permit stamped in the passport.

7. Employer submits a copy of the visa to MOHRE.

8. Employee undergoes a medical test.

9. Employer and employee sign the labour contract.

10. Upon approval, the employee receives a labour card and UAE labour contract.

📌 If an employer wishes to apply for another mission visa for the same employee, the previous labour card must be cancelled, and the employee must exit the UAE before re-entry.

READ ALSO: Temporary Work Permits in UAE 2026

UAE Mission Visa Duration & Validity

• Special Mission Entry Permit: 16 days (non-extendable).

• Mission Work Permit: 60 days, renewable, and can sometimes extend up to 3 months.

UAE Mission Visa Cost in 2026

The exact fee varies depending on the company type and MOHRE category. On average, the UAE mission visa cost ranges between AED 500 – AED 1,000, excluding medical tests and insurance. Employers usually bear the cost.

UAE Mission Visa Processing Time

The UAE mission visa is processed quickly compared to standard work visas. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 working days for approval, depending on documentation and MOHRE approvals.

UAE Mission Visa for Freelancers

Freelancers cannot directly apply for a mission visa. It must be sponsored by a UAE-based company that requires their services for a specific project. Freelancers working in fields like IT, design, construction, or consultancy may receive mission visas if hired by an employer.

Key Advantages of UAE Mission Visa

• Fast approval and short processing time.

• Cost-effective for employers.

• Ideal for short-term, project-based jobs.

• Provides legal work authorization in the UAE.

Conclusion

The UAE Mission Visa 2026 is a flexible and practical solution for employers and expatriates engaged in short-term projects. With streamlined eligibility criteria, reduced costs, and fast processing, it offers an excellent pathway for temporary employment in the UAE.

👉 Apply online today at UAE Visa Online to begin your UAE mission visa application hassle-free.