How to get a work visa in United Arab Emirates as an Indonesian citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
Why Indonesians choose United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates offers Indonesian workers 5 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Indonesians are valued for a vast, young labour force and long-established overseas employment programmes. Around 100,000 Indonesians already live in United Arab Emirates, so an established community is in place. Applications are made at the United Arab Emirates diplomatic mission serving Jakarta.
Who this is best for
- ✓Professionals seeking tax-free income and fast deployment
- ✓Finance, tech and consulting talent in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- ✓Hospitality, aviation and construction workers
- ✓Healthcare workers via DHA, HAAD and MOH licensing
- ✓High earners eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa
Available visa pathways
Employment Visa
تأشيرة عمل
The UAE Employment Visa is the standard work residency permit that most expatriates in the UAE hold. Your employer initiates and manages the entire process through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), making it relatively hands-off for the employee. It is the default pathway for anyone who has accepted a job offer from a UAE-based company.
Green Visa
التأشيرة الخضراء
The UAE Green Visa, introduced in October 2022, is a five-year self-sponsored residency visa that represents a game-changing shift in UAE immigration. For the first time, skilled employees can sponsor themselves independently of their employer, breaking the traditional kafala (sponsorship) system. It targets skilled employees, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Golden Visa
التأشيرة الذهبية
The UAE Golden Visa is the country's most prestigious long-term residency program, offering a 10-year renewable visa to qualified individuals. It was introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded since then. Categories include investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers, and — most relevant for skilled professionals — those qualifying as skilled professionals in priority fields.
Freelance Visa
تأشيرة العمل الحر
The UAE Freelance Visa allows independent professionals to live and work legally in the UAE without a traditional employer. It is issued through free zones — specialized economic areas that offer their own business licensing frameworks. This visa is ideal for consultants, designers, content creators, developers, and other independent professionals who want to base themselves in the UAE.
Remote Work Visa
تأشيرة العمل عن بعد
The UAE Remote Work Visa (also known as the Virtual Working Program) allows professionals employed by companies outside the UAE to live in the UAE for one year while continuing to work remotely for their foreign employer. Launched in 2020, it positions the UAE as a hub for digital nomads and remote workers who want to enjoy the UAE's tax-free environment, infrastructure, and lifestyle.
💡 Tip for Indonesians applicants: Have your Jakarta police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in United Arab Emirates.
Application timeline for United Arab Emirates
Accept job offer from UAE employer
Receive and sign a formal employment offer from a UAE-registered company or free zone entity.
VariesEmployer applies for work permit
Your employer submits the work permit and entry permit applications to MOHRE (mainland) or the relevant free zone authority.
3-5 daysEntry permit issued
An entry permit (pink visa) is emailed to you, allowing you to enter the UAE. Valid for 60 days from issue.
2-5 daysArrive in UAE & medical fitness test
Complete a medical fitness test at an approved health centre. This includes blood tests and a chest X-ray.
2-5 daysEmirates ID & residence visa stamped
Provide biometrics at an ICP typing centre. Your residence visa is stamped in your passport and Emirates ID card is issued.
1-2 weeksCommon required documents
Document requirements may vary by visa type.
Cost estimate in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Approximate conversions for Indonesians. Currency rates are indicative - check current rates before applying.
| Item | Amount | In IDR |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | AED 300-7500 | Rp1,307,902 |
| Minimum salary threshold (per year) | AED 360,000 | Rp1,569,482,289/yr |
Indonesian community in United Arab Emirates
Approximately 100,000 Indonesians live in United Arab Emirates, one of the larger Indonesians communities abroad. An estimated 100,000 hold work visas.
Embassy and application centres
Apply at the United Arab Emirates diplomatic mission serving Jakarta. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Related guides
Working and living in United Arab Emirates
Key industries hiring
The UAE hires heavily in oil and gas, financial services, hospitality and tourism, construction, real estate, aviation and a fast-growing technology sector centred on Dubai's free zones. Healthcare demand is strong across all seven emirates.
Cost of living and quality of life
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are expensive for housing - a one-bedroom apartment runs AED 5,000-8,000 a month - but the absence of income tax means take-home pay goes further. Employers commonly provide housing allowances, health insurance and annual flights home, and the lifestyle is modern and cosmopolitan.
Next steps for Indonesian applicants
Ready to start your United Arab Emirates visa application? Here is what to do next:
- Check which visa you qualify for
- Gather your documents
- Apply through the official portal
How to apply for a United Arab Emirates visa from Indonesian
Applications for United Arab Emirates are processed through Embassy Direct. Here is how to apply, step by step:
- 1Prepare your documents
Cover letter, bank statements, photos, and supporting evidence.
- 2Book your appointment at Embassy Direct
Processing time: 3-5 business days. Service fee: AED 100-200.
- 3Attend your appointment with all documents and passport
Biometrics: 10 fingerprints + photo at the centre.
- 4Track your application after submission
Use your reference number on the tracking portal.
- 5Collect your passport when notified
You will receive an SMS or email when your passport is ready. Collect within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Golden Visa in United Arab Emirates?
The minimum salary is AED 360,000 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in United Arab Emirates?
Processing times range from 1 to 4 weeks.
Do I need a job offer for a United Arab Emirates work visa?
Not always. Green Visa, Golden Visa, Freelance Visa, Remote Work Visa do not require one.
Can I bring my family on a United Arab Emirates work visa?
Yes. 5 of 5 visa types allow dependants.
How many Indonesians live in United Arab Emirates?
Approximately 100,000 Indonesians currently live in United Arab Emirates, making it one of the more established Indonesians communities abroad.
How much does a United Arab Emirates work visa cost for Indonesians?
Visa application fees start at AED 300 - approximately Rp1,307,902. Budget extra for medical checks, document authentication, and travel to the embassy.
Can Indonesians apply for a United Arab Emirates work visa from Jakarta?
Yes. Indonesians apply through the United Arab Emirates diplomatic mission serving Jakarta. Processing takes 1-4 weeks.
Is there a path to permanent residency in United Arab Emirates?
None of the visa types listed here directly lead to permanent residency in United Arab Emirates. However, some may allow you to transition to a residency pathway later.