Exciting changes are taking place in the UAE labour market with a new classification system being introduced on 1 June 2022, that will provide companies in the private sector up to 93% discount on expat work permits.
These discounts are provided to companies that exceed government-mandated Emiratisation rates and meet set criteria.
Here’s what you need to know:
Category 1
If placed in this category, you will only pay 250 AED per work permit which will be valid for a period of 2 years.
To qualify, organisations need to meet at least one or more of the below criteria:
- Exceed Emiratisation rates at least three times above the target.
- Teaming up with Emirati Talent Competitiveness Programme Nafis to hire & train at least 500 citizens every year
- Be active in the targeted sectors and activities determined by the Council of Ministers based on the proposal presented by MOHRE.
- Be a venture owned by a young citizen according to approved standards in this regard, or being one of the training and employment centres that support implementing the Workforce Planning Policy by promoting cultural diversity in the UAE.
Category 2
Private companies that follow all UAE labour laws & regulations but do not fulfil the other standards will pay 1,200 AED per work permit.
Category 3
Companies that do not adhere to the labour law will fall under the third category and be required to pay all fees in full: 3,450 AED per work permit. Companies that commit other violations such as recruiting workers without obtaining a work permit, providing incorrect data or violating obligations to workers wage protection amongst others will also fall under this category with a minimum duration of 3 months.
The ministry of Emiratisation will provide a clear roadmap for private sector organisations in the UAE and is ready to support those with 50 or more employees on their transformation journey.
