GOVERNMENT SERVICES OFFICE Client Handbook Employee Services 2015 1
DIFC Government Services Office 5 DIFC Client Portal 5 General Instruction 5 How to apply for Employee Services through the DIFC Client Portal 6 Company Establishment Card Services 8 New Establishment Card 8 Establishment Card Application 9 1. Renewal of Establishment Card 9 2. Lost or Replacement of Establishment Card 10 3. Amendment of Establishment Card 11 4. Cancellation of Establishment Card 11 5. Renewal & Amendment of Establishment Card 12 6. Renewal & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card 13 7. Amendment & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card 14 8. Renewal, Amendment & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card 15 Add a new Service on the Establishment Card 15 EMPLOYMENT VISA SERVICES 16 New Employment Visa Package 16 1. Applicant outside the country 16 2. Applicant inside the country 18 Transfer to DIFC Employment Packages 20 1. Transfer of Employment Visa from Father/Husband/Others to DIFC 20 2. Transfer of Employment Visa from Government / Free Zone Entity to DIFC 21 3. Transfer of Employment Visa from a DIFC Entity to another DIFC Entity 23 Renewal of Employment Visa 24 Cancellation of Employment/Student Visa 25 1. Visa Cancellation with Passport 25 2. Visa Cancellation Without Passport 26 Amendment of Employment Visa 27 1. Transfer of Employment Visa to a New Passport 28 2. Change of Personal Details - Occupation 29 2
3. Lost or Damaged Passport 29 4. Change of Nationality 30 Transfer of Employment Visa from DIFC to Others 31 Employment Entry Permit Services 32 1. Renewal of Entry Permit 32 2. Re-Issue Employment Entry Permit 33 3. Cancellation of Employment Entry Permit 34 Non-Sponsored Employment Services 35 1. New/Renewal of Seconded Employee Card 35 2. New/Renewal Employee Card for GCC National 36 3. Lost Replacement of Employee Card 37 4. Amendment of Employee Card 38 5. New/Renewal of Temporary Work Permit 38 6. Cancellation of Non-DIFC Employment Permit 39 Visit Visa Services 40 1. Short Term Visit Visa 41 2. Long Term Visit Visa 41 3. Cancellation of unused Visit Visa 42 On-Arrival Visa Extension 43 Other Employment Visa Related Services 44 1. Letter and NOCs 44 2. Company List of Employees issued by GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai) 45 3. E-Gate Card 45 4. Ejari Attestation 46 5. New/Renew P.O. Box 47 6. Cancellation/Tranfer of PO Box 47 7. PRO Card Application 48 8. Request to Abscond an Employee 49 9. Request to withdraw an Absconding Status 49 10. Visitor Card 50 11. Personal Information or Unified Number Report issued by GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs-Dubai) 51 12. Entry Permit/Visit Visa Deposit at Dubai International Airport 52 13. Upgrade to Express after Medical Fitness Test 53 14. Government Fine Payment 54 3
PSA Refund 54 GSO Clearance for Dissolution of a Company 54 Medical Fitness Test and Card Services 55 1. Medical Fitness Test for Non-DIFC Sponsorship 55 2. Medical Health Card Request 56 Add/Remove GSO Authorized Signatory 57 1.Add Authorized Signatory 57 2. Remove Authorized Signatory 58 4
DIFC Government Services Office The Government Service Office was established to extend the support of General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA) to clients registered with DIFC. It has since become a one-stop-shop for a large number of visa related services such as Employment visa services, Visit Visa Services, Dependent Visa Services, Non DIFC sponsored employment services, etc. The DIFC government service office Client Handbook Employee Services is a detailed guide covering all aspects of employment visa related applications. The menu provides a comprehensive list of services offered by the Government Service Office, including the following details for each service: Definition Application process Documents required to be uploaded along with the application Original Documents required for the service Service Fees and timeframe DIFC Client Portal The DIFC client portal is a system dedicated to provide DIFC registered entities with various online services such as company and employee services. Through Employee Services, DIFC entities can apply for any of the services offered by Government Services Office such as new employment visa, renewal, cancellation, etc. The portal also facilitates the submission of dependent visa packages and a range of other optional services. Please click here for portal access and to watch the introductory videos. For further queries or clarifications, please e-mail the Government Service office on gs.helpdesk@difc.ae or call us on 04-362 2222. General Instruction Please read the instructions below carefully to ensure smooth processing of the applications submitted: The company establishment card must be valid to be able to apply for Employee Services. All employment visas should be renewed / cancelled within 30 days from the expiry date in order to obtain complete access for Employee Services. The company should ensure that the portal account has enough balance prior to submitting a Service Request. If the submitted service request requires any original documents to start the process, the original(s) should be submitted at the DIFC Government Services Office as soon as the service request is submitted on the DIFC Client Portal to avoid delays. 5
The Portal User will be able to track and view the status of a submitted application through the portal. However, DIFC Government Services Office will be contacting the client through email and SMS once the documents are ready for collection as well as if further documents/information is required. The documents uploaded along with the service request should be coloured and scanned with a high resolution. Please ensure the passport photograph is with a white background, frontal view of the applicant and in.jpg format. Government Services related emails and SMS notifications will be sent to all portal users with Employee Services access. All information provided on the applications submitted will be treated with confidentiality. Clients are requested to ensure that they provide accurate information on all applications to avoid any delays or errors. Government Services Office will not be responsible for any errors on documents due to the provision of inaccurate information. All requirements and fees listed in the manual/portal are subject to immediate change by General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai or the Government Service Office without prior notice. DIFC Government Services Office working hours are: Sunday through Thursday 08:00AM to 03:00PM. The office will be closed during announced public holidays. How to apply for Employee Services through the DIFC Client Portal This section provides clear guidelines on the submission process on the DIFC Client Portal. User Access If you wish to obtain access for the first time, or would like to update your current access, please follow the steps below: Click on the link: https://portal.difc.ae/user_access_form and select the desired option from the drop-down menu (create new user or update existing user). Fill the required information, upload the passport copy of the user and click on submit. A User Details Document will be generated in the system. Print this document; obtain the signature of the user as well as the company authorised signatory as per the DIFC commercial license. Receive an email from DIFC portal team with the user id and password. Submission of Service Requests on the DIFC Client Portal Below please find clear guidelines for the submission process on the DIFC Client Portal: Log in the DIFC Client Portal and click on Employee Services Select the required service from the list of services. Fill the online application and click on Save. On the next page, click on download/upload doc and upload the required documents then click on Save. 6
Review the application and click the button Submit. Please ensure proper review of the service request is done before submission. Changes cannot be made after submitting the service request. Submit the original documents at the DIFC Government Services office if required only. Returned Services Requests Upon submission, DIFC Government Services Officer will review the application and approve, return or reject the application. Incomplete applications will be sent back to the client for more information or documents re-upload. If the service request is returned for more information, please click on the Pending Actions icon and provide required information in the field Client Comments and then click on Save. If the service request is returned for Re-upload Documents, please click on the Pending Actions icon, replace the required document(s) and then click on Save. If the pending requirement is an additional upload, click on Pending Actions icon, upload the required document under Download/Upload Doc. After upload, click on the step ID. Edit on the service request, enter a comment on customer comments and then click Save. Fine payment on the DIFC Client Portal If Government fines are to be paid, please go to Employee Services Government Fines Payment. After making the payment please click on Step ID, Edit and enter a comment on Customer Comments section and then Save. Track the status of the submitted Service Request The applicant can view the latest status of the application by clicking Service Requests in the client portal. The system will list all the service requests submitted by the entity with a clear status of each. Cancellation of a submitted Service Request If you wish to cancel a submitted service request, then please follow the steps below. This is not applicable to service requests cancelled before submission. Open the service request and click on Cancel DIFC GSO officer will verify the cancellation request and approve/reject accordingly The service request will be stopped and a refund will be processed if applicable only. For new visa applications, refunds will be applicable only before scheduling the medical fitness test. If the medical fitness test is already scheduled, the refund will not be applicable. The refund amount will be credited back to the company s portal account after approval of DIFC finance within 20 working days. 7
Company Establishment Card Services Conditions A copy of a valid Establishment Card is required for all visa related services in Government Services Office. The Establishment Card is valid for one year only and until the expiry of the DIFC commercial license, whichever comes first, and should be renewed annually. Companies holding expired Establishment Cards will not be allowed to submit any visa related applications at the Government Services Office. Establishment card should be amended if there are any changes made on the DIFC license (change in trade name, change of Address & change of business activity). Failure to renew the Establishment Card within one month of the expiry date will result in fines issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs of Dubai at a rate of AED 100 per month of delay. In the event of the loss of an Establishment Card, the company is required to present an original policy report when requesting a replacement. New Establishment Card This Service Request allows you to obtain the Establishment Card for the first time upon completing the Incorporation/Registration of the DIFC entity. Log in the portal and select the service New Establishment Card under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the require documents. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. A copy of the Certificate of Incorporation/Registration None 8
Normal 1,000 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 3 working days Express 1,250 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Establishment Card Application (Renewal, Amendment, Cancellation or replacement of Company Establishment Card) 1. Renewal of Establishment Card This Service Request allows you to renew an expired Establishment Card. Log in the portal and select the service request Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Log in the portal and select the service request Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the required original documents to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the renewed Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. A copy of the current Establishment Card Original expired Establishment Card 9
Normal 800 3 working days Express 1,000 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 2. Lost or Replacement of Establishment Card This Service Request allows you to obtain a replacement Establishment Card in lieu of a lost or damaged card. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original document to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police A copy of the Establishment Card Original Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police Normal 750 3 working days Express 1,000 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 10
3. Amendment of Establishment Card This Service Request allows you to amend company details on an Establishment Card. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original document to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A copy of valid DIFC commercial license. A copy of the Establishment Card Original Establishment Card Normal 700 3 working days Express 950 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 4. Cancellation of Establishment Card This Service Request allows you to Cancel an Establishment Card. Kindly ensure all employment visas are cancelled and employees have exited the country or transferred to another entity prior to applying for cancellation of the Establishment card. This service request is mainly for entities that are in the process of winding up. 11
Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original documents to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card Cancellation is completed. Copy of DIFC commercial license A copy of the Establishment Card Original Establishment Card Normal 420 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 5. Renewal & Amendment of Establishment Card This service request allows you to renew an expired Establishment Card and amend the company details at the same time. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original document to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the renewed Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. 12
A valid DIFC commercial license. A copy of Establishment Card Original Establishment Card Normal 1,500 3 working days Express 1,950 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 6. Renewal & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card This service request allows you to renew an expired Establishment Card which is lost. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original document to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the renewed Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police A copy of Establishment Card Original Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police 13
Normal 1,550 3 working days Express 2,000 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 7. Amendment & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card This Service request allows you to apply for a replacement of a lost Establishment Card and amendment of the company details at the same time. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original documents to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police A copy of Establishment Card Original Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police Normal 1,450 3 working days Express 1,950 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 14
8. Renewal, Amendment & Lost Replacement of Establishment Card This Service request allows you to renew an expired Establishment Card which is lost, with amendments in company details. Log in the portal and select the service Establishment Card Application under Employee Services. Submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original documents to DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the Establishment Card is ready for collection/delivery. A valid DIFC commercial license. Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police A copy of Establishment Card Original Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police Normal 2,250 3 working days Express 2,950 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Add a new Service on the Establishment Card (Short Term and Long Term Visit Visa services) This service request allows you to add visit visa services to the company establishment card such as adding the short term visit visa or the long-term visit visa services as well as increase the number of visit visas added already. If the visit visa is not added yet, the company will not be eligible for any visit visas. 15
Log in the portal and select the service Add a new service on the Establishment Card under Employee Services. Submit after uploading the required documents. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the required service is added to the Establishment Card A valid DIFC commercial license. A copy of Establishment Card None Add Short Term or Long Term Visit Visa Increase the number of Short Term or Long Term visit visa quota 5,440 + 40+ Guarantee of AED 1,000 per visitor 720 + 40 + Guarantee of AED 1,000 per visitor 2 working days 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Employment Visa Services New Employment Visa Package 1. Applicant outside the country This Service Request allows you to apply for a new employment visa under DIFC sponsorship while the applicant is out of UAE. Log in the portal and select the service New Employment Package under Employee Services. Select the service type as Applicant outside UAE, Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent from the Government Service Office within 3 working days, given that there are no further delays by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, to collect the 16
original entry permit which should be deposited at the port of entry prior to the applicant s entry to UAE. Submit the original passport and entry permit once the applicant has entered the UAE in order to process his/her Emirates ID biometrics Complete the medical fitness test at the DIFC medical centre. If Emirates ID biometrics is required, collect the original passport, original visa (for new applications) and Emirates ID registration form stamped by DIFC from Government Services Office right after completing the medical test and undergo the EID biometrics (fingerprint and photo capture) at any Emirates ID authorised centres. Return all the original documents including the stamped Emirates ID registration form to DIFC Government Services Office once the biometrics are completed. An e-mail notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card and original Emirates ID registration form are ready for collection/delivery. Documents to be Uploaded Clear coloured passport photocopy, including the personal details page. Failure to submit a clear copy will result in further delays. Coloured copy of the Company Establishment Card. Applicant s photograph with white background in jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties highlighting the job title of the applicant. The employer is entitled to delete any sensitive commercial terms. The contract is to be between the company in DIFC and the employee which must be in compliance with DIFC employment Law. (Contracts signed overseas will not be accepted). The selected job title in the new visa application should be identical to the job title in the employment contract, if the same is available in the visa application form. If it is not available, please select a job title that is closest to the title mentioned on the employment contract. A copy of the highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin. (This requirement is not mandatory for certain job titles such as Clerks or Assistants) A clear copy of the applicant s birth certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required if the applicant is from a non-arab country but holds a previous nationality or ancestral existence from any Arab countries. Proof of applicant s previous entry if applicable. Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application. : Original passport (required once the applicant has entered the UAE). Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission. Original Entry Permit (required once the applicant has entered the UAE). (2) passport size photographs (at the time of the scheduled medical test) 17
Normal 3,270 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 7 working days Express 5,410 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 2. Applicant inside the country This Service Request allows you to apply for a new employment visa under DIFC sponsorship while the applicant is in the UAE. Log in the portal and select the service New Employment Package under Employee Services. Select the service type as Applicant inside UAE, fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. Submit the original attested educational certificate along with a copy and the original passport as soon as the service request is submitted. Please note that the entry permit cannot be issued if the original educational certificate is not submitted at the front desk of Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the medical fitness test has been scheduled indicating the requirement of Emirates ID biometrics Complete the medical fitness test at the DIFC medical centre. If Emirates ID biometrics is required, collect the original passport, original visa (for new applications) and emirates ID registration form stamped by DIFC from Government Services Office right after completing the medical test and undergo the EID biometrics (fingerprint and photo capture) at any of Emirates ID authorised centres. Submit back all the original documents including the stamped Emirates ID registration form to DIFC Government Services Office once the biometrics are completed. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card and original Emirates ID registration form are ready for collection/delivery. 18
Clear coloured passport photocopy, including the personal details page. Failure to submit a clear copy will result in further delays. A coloured copy of the Company Establishment Card. Applicant s photograph with white background in jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Cancelled previous employment visa and a copy of the labour cancellation for individuals with a pervious residency. Copy of the last visit visa, or last on-arrival visit visa stamp for individuals who are on a visit visa at the time of application. Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties highlighting the job title of the applicant. The employer is entitled to delete any sensitive commercial terms. The contract is to be between the company in DIFC and the employee which must be in compliance with DIFC employment Law. (Contracts signed overseas will not be accepted). The selected job title in the new visa application should be identical to the job title on the employment contract, if the same is available in the visa application form. If it is not available, please select a job title that is closest to the title mentioned in the employment contract. Highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE along with a copy. (This requirement is not mandatory for certain job titles such as clerks or assistants) A clear copy of the applicant s birth certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required if the applicant is from a non-arab country but holds a previous nationality or ancestral existence from any Arab countries. Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application. Original passport (once the employment visa is issued). Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission. Two Colour photographs (at the time medical test) Normal 4,620 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 7 working days Express 7,920 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 19
Transfer to DIFC Employment Packages 1. Transfer of Employment Visa from Father/Husband/Others to DIFC This service request allows you to transfer an employee from an individual sponsorship to DIFC sponsorship. Please ensure that the applicant s visa is valid to apply for the transfer. Log in the portal and select the service Transfer to DIFC Employment Package under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. An e-mail and SMS notification from the Government Service Office will be sent once the sponsorship transfer form is ready for collection/delivery. The signature from the previous sponsor must be obtained on the original transfer form. In case of transfer from another emirate, the transfer form needs to be signed and stamped by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs of the respective emirate. Submit the original signed transfer form to the Government Services Office with the original passport, original emirates ID and original attested educational certificate with a copy (if applicable). An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the medical fitness test has been scheduled indicating the requirement of Emirates ID biometrics Complete the medical fitness test at the DIFC medical centre. If Emirates ID biometrics is required, collect the original passport and emirates ID registration form stamped by DIFC from Government Services Office right after completing the medical test and undergo the EID biometrics (fingerprint and photo capture) at any of Emirates ID authorised centres. Return all the original documents including the stamped Emirates ID registration form to DIFC Government Services Office once the biometrics are completed. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card and original Emirates ID registration form are ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured passport photocopies, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Applicant s photograph with white background in jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copies of current sponsor s passport and visa Clear Coloured copy of the company establishment Card. A clear copy of the applicant s birth certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required if the applicant is from a non-arab country but holds a previous nationality or ancestral existence from any Arab countries. 20
Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties highlighting the job title. The employer is entitled to delete any sensitive commercial terms. The contract is to be between the company in DIFC and the employee which must be in compliance with DIFC employment Law. (Contracts signed overseas will not be accepted). The selected job title in the new visa application should be identical to the job title in the employment contract, if the same is available in the visa application form. If it is not available, please select a job title that is closest to the title mentioned in the employment contract. Highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE (if applicable) Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application Original passport (upon submission of transfer form with the signature of the sponsor). Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission. (2) Passport size photographs at the time of the scheduled medical test. Normal 2,840 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 5 working days Express 4,860 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 2. Transfer of Employment Visa from Government / Free Zone Entity to DIFC This service request allows you to transfer an employee from a Government Entity or any Free Zone Company to DIFC Log in the portal and select the service Transfer to DIFC Employment Package under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information and submit after uploading the required documents. An e-mail and SMS notification from the Government Service Office will be sent once the sponsorship transfer form is ready for collection/delivery. The transfer form must be signed by authorised Signatory of the Government Entity/Free Zone authority. In case of transfer from another emirate, the transfer form needs to be signed and stamped by the General 21
Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs of the respective emirate. Submit the original signed transfer form to the Government Service Office with the original passport, original emirates ID and the original educational certificate with a copy (if applicable). An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the medical fitness test has been scheduled indicating the requirement of Emirates ID biometrics Complete the medical fitness test at the DIFC medical centre. If Emirates ID biometrics is required, collect the original passport and emirates ID registration form stamped by DIFC from Government Services Office right after completing the medical test and undergo the EID biometrics (fingerprint and photo capture) at any of Emirates ID authorised centres. Return all the original documents including the stamped Emirates ID registration form to DIFC Government Services Office once the biometrics are completed. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card and original Emirates ID registration form are ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured passport photocopies of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of current sponsor establishment card Clear coloured copy of the new company establishment Card. A clear copy of the applicant s birth certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required if the applicant is from a non-arab country but holds a previous nationality or ancestral existence from any Arab countries. Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties highlighting the job title. The employer is entitled to delete any sensitive commercial terms. The contract is to be between the company in DIFC and the employee which must be in compliance with DIFC employment Law. (Contracts signed overseas will not be accepted). The selected job title in the new visa application should be identical to the job title in the employment contract, if the same is available in the visa application form. If it is not available, please select a job title that is closest to the title mentioned in the employment contract. Highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE (if applicable) Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and General Directorate Residency and Foreigners Affairs reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application Original passport (upon submission of the transfer form with the signature of the sponsor). Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission. (2) Passport size photographs at the time of the scheduled medical test. 22
Normal 2,680 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 5 working days Express 4,660 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 3. Transfer of Employment Visa from a DIFC Entity to another DIFC Entity This service request allows you to transfer the employment visa of an individual from a DIFC registered entity to another DIFC registered entity. Log on to the portal and select the service Transfer to DIFC Employment Package under Employee Services. Fill the Service request with accurate information click on save. Current Sponsor Details should be filled with accurate information in order the system to locate the employee (Full Company name as per the commercial license, Establishment card number as 2/6/xxxxxx and DIFC License No with 4 digits numeric value only.) Print the Internal Transfer Form generated in the system. This form needs to be uploaded to the system after the signature and stamp. Upload all the required documents and submit the service request. Submit the required original documents. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card are ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured passport photocopies of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of current company establishment card Clear coloured copy of the new company establishment Card. Internal Transfer Form signed and stamped by the authorised signatories of both companies as well as the employee. Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties highlighting the job title of the applicant. The 23
employer is entitled to delete any sensitive commercial terms. The contract is to be between the company in DIFC and the employee which must be in compliance with DIFC employment Law. (a contract signed overseas will not be accepted). The selected job title in the new visa application should be identical to the job title in the employment contract, if the same is available in the visa application form. If it is not available, please select a job title that is closest to the title mentioned in the employment contract. Highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE along with a copy (if applicable) Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application Original passport. (Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission) Signed Internal Transfer Form. Normal 1,370 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 5 working days Express 1,650 + 2,500 (PSA Deposit) 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Renewal of Employment Visa This service request allows you to apply for employment visa renewal of a DIFC sponsored employee. Please ensure that the visa renewal is submitted prior to the expiry of the visa to avoid over stay fines. Log on to the portal and select the service Renewal of Employment Visa Package under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit the required original documents at DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the medical fitness test has been scheduled indicating the requirement of Emirates ID biometrics Complete the medical fitness test at the DIFC medical centre. If Emirates ID biometrics is required, collect the original passport and emirates ID registration form stamped 24
by DIFC from Government Services Office right after completing the medical test and undergo the EID biometrics (fingerprint and photo capture) any Emirates ID authorised centre. Submit back all the original documents including the stamped Emirates ID registration form to DIFC Government Services Office once the biometrics are completed. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, DIFC Employee card and original Emirates ID registration form are ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured passport photocopies of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of company establishment card A clear copy of the applicant s birth certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required if the applicant is from a non-arab country but holds a previous nationality or ancestral existence from any Arab countries. Highest educational certificate attested by UAE embassy in the country of certificate origin as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs in UAE along with a copy (if there is a change in job title upon renewal) Kindly note that the above listed requirements are the standard requirements for the visa application and UAE General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs -Dubai reserves the right to ask for other supporting documents even after submission of the application Original passport (Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission) (2) Passport size photographs at the time of the scheduled medical test. Normal 3,090 5 working days Express 5,310 2 working days Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Cancellation of Employment/Student Visa 25
1. Visa Cancellation with Passport This service requests is to cancel an employee who is in UAE or outside UAE (for less than six months with a valid DIFC Visa). Dependents visas should be cancelled prior to cancelling the employee s visa. Eligible candidates only can cancel the employment visa by holding their family visas. Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Cancellation of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the employee from the search option, fill the required information and click on save Print the Employee Confirmation Letter generated in the system. Upload all the required documents and submit the service request. Submit the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification will be sent once the individual s original passport, Cancellation papers are ready for collection/delivery. : Clear coloured passport photocopies of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Employee Confirmation Letter signed by the employee. Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original passport Original DIFC Employee Card (if available) Original Emirates ID Employee Confirmation Letter signed by the employee. Normal 300 2 working days Express 400 4 working hours Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 26
2. Visa Cancellation Without Passport This service allows you to cancel an employee who is outside UAE for more than six months or whose visa expired while he/she is out of UAE. Dependents visas should be cancelled prior to cancelling the employee s visa Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Cancellation of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office (if any). An e-mail and SMS notification from DIFC Government Services Office will be sent once Cancellation papers are ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured passport photocopies of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original DIFC Employee Card (If available) Original Emirates ID (If available) Normal 600 2 working days Express 700 4 working hours Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 27
Amendment of Employment Visa 1. Transfer of Employment Visa to a New Passport This service allows you to transfer a valid Employment visa of an employee from an old passport to new. Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Amendment of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification from DIFC Government Services Office will be sent once Passports are ready for collection/delivery. : Clear coloured copy of the old passport of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Clear coloured copy of the new passport Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original Passport (old and new) Normal 450 3 working days Express 600 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 28
2. Change of Personal Details Occupation This service allows you to amend/correct employee name, designation, passport number or company name in a valid Employment visa of an employee. Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Amendment of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office. An e-mail and SMS notification from DIFC Government Services Office will be sent once the Passport is ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured copy of the passport of the applicant, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Attested Educational Certificate if applicable Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original Passport (Kindly ensure availability of at least two empty pages in the passport before submission) Normal 470 3 working days Express 580 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 3. Lost or Damaged Passport This service allows you to transfer a valid Employment visa of an employee to a new passport issued in lieu of lost or damaged 29
Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Amendment of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit the original Passport and Lost Certificate issued by Dubai Police at DIFC Government Services Office. If the passport is lost out of UAE, visa information report issued by UAE Embassy/Consulate in the country where the passport is lost will also be required. An e-mail and SMS notification from DIFC Government Services Office will be sent once the Passport is ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured copy of the lost/damaged passport, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Clear coloured copy of the new passport Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of company establishment card New Passport Original Lost Certificate Visa Information report (if passport is lost out of UAE) Normal 950 3 working days Express 1,200 1 working day Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. 4. Change of Nationality This service allows you to transfer a valid Employment visa of an employee to a new passport issued due to change of Nationality. 30
Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Amendment of Employment Visa under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Submit all the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office.. An e-mail and SMS notification from DIFC Government Services Office will be sent once the Passport is ready for collection/delivery. Clear coloured copy of the old passport, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Clear coloured copy of the new passport Clear coloured copy of good conduct certificate issued by Dubai Police Clear coloured copy of the clearance letter issued by Dubai Courts. Applicant s photograph with white background in.jpg format with a resolution of more than 200dpi Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original Passport (old and new) Good conduct certificate issued by Dubai Police Clearance Letter issued by Dubai Courts. Emirates ID One Colour Photograph of the applicant Normal 1,000 Not Applicable Note: The service time does not include any unforeseen delays from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai. Transfer of Employment Visa from DIFC to Others This service request allows you to request DIFC approval to transfer an individual from a DIFC registered entity to a Government entity, a Free Zone entity within Dubai or an individual sponsor. 31
Application process Log on to the portal and select the service Transfer of Employment Visa to Others under Employee Services. Select the applicant from the search option, fill the information and submit after uploading the required documents Print the employee confirmation letter generated in the system Submit all the original documents at DIFC Government Services Office. Receive the visa transfer form signed and stamped by the DIFC. Clear coloured copy of the applicant s passport, including the personal details page and visa stamp page. Clear coloured copy of the new sponsor s passport, including the personal details page and visa stamp page (if the new sponsor is an individual). Clear coloured copy of the new sponsor s establishment card (if the new sponsor is an entity). Employee Confirmation letter signed by the company s authorised signatory and the employee. Clear coloured copy of company establishment card Original Sponsorship Transfer form signed and stamped by the new sponsor. Employee Confirmation letter signed by the Employee. DIFC Employee Card (if available) Normal 400 Same Time Note: there will be an additional fee of AED 400 if DIFC Employee card is lost or not available Employment Entry Permit Services 1. Renewal of Entry Permit This service request allows you to renew an expired entry permit of an individual before he/she enters the country or before completing the local amendment. The request for renewal should be submitted within 3 days prior to the expiry date of the entry permit. 32