Can UAE Employers Legally Deduct Visa Costs from Your Salary?

Key Takeaways

• UAE visa regulations are governed by Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) and GDRFA
• Employment visa processing typically takes 2-3 weeks after all documents are submitted
• Visa costs in the UAE vary based on visa type, duration, and emirate of application

No, UAE employers cannot legally deduct visa costs from your salary. Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 explicitly prohibits employers from charging workers for recruitment and employment costs, whether directly or indirectly. Any such deductions violate UAE labour law.Many expatriate workers in the UAE face unauthorised salary deductions for visa expenses, unaware that these practices are completely

illegal. Understanding your rights protects you from financial exploitation and helps maintain fair employment relationships.What Does UAE Labour Law Say About Visa Cost Deductions?Article 6(4) of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 provides crystal-clear protection against visa cost deductions:"The employer is prohibited from charging the worker for the fees and costs of recruitment and employment

or collecting them from him, whether directly or indirectly."This comprehensive prohibition covers all recruitment-related expenses, leaving no room for employer interpretation or creative cost-shifting schemes.Employer Responsibilities Include:All hiring and recruitment agency costsTravel expenses for employee relocationVisa issuance and processing feesMedical examination and health check costsEmployee

residency permit feesPost-arrival administrative proceduresThe Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) emphasises that employers must bear full responsibility for these costs without exception.Which Pre-Employment Costs Must Employers Cover?UAE labour regulations require employers to absorb all expenses associated with bringing workers to the country and establishing their legal employment

status.Mandatory Employer-Covered Expenses:Recruitment agency fees from worker's home countryTravel costs including flights and transportationVisa application fees and related processing chargesMedical examination costs required for visa approvalEmirates ID processing and residency permit feesWork permit issuance through MoHRE systemsThese requirements apply to all mainland company employees and most

free zone workers, regardless of salary level or job category.What Information Should You Receive Before Employment?Before relocating to the UAE for work, your employer or recruitment agent must provide comprehensive employment information to prevent misunderstandings about cost responsibilities.Required Pre-Employment Information:Exact job title and detailed responsibilitiesComplete salary structure

and payment frequencyFull benefits package including allowancesWorking conditions and company policiesAll employment terms and legal obligationsYou should receive a formal annex to your job offer outlining your rights and obligations under UAE Labour Law. This documentation serves as crucial evidence if disputes arise about cost responsibilities.When Might You Need to Pay Compensation to Employers?Whilst

employers cannot deduct visa costs from your salary, specific resignation circumstances may trigger compensation requirements under UAE law.Resignation Without Notice...

About This Article

This article provides general information about UAE labour law and employment regulations. The information is based on Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and subsequent amendments. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional or contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).