Visa sponsorship is when a UAE employer secures and backs the residence visa of an employee. The company becomes the sponsor. It carries legal responsibility for the immigration status of that worker for as long as they are employed. Most private sector expatriates work under employer sponsorship.
The employer applies for the entry permit, then the residence visa and Emirates ID. The visa links to the work permit.
Once salary thresholds are met, an employee can often sponsor family members. Newer routes, such as the Green Visa, allow self-sponsorship for some skilled workers.
Keep sponsorship records accurate and renewals early. Understand your duties as sponsor.
Many firms hand the admin to a PRO service to stay compliant and free up HR time.
Last updated: July 2026 | Reviewed by Tuscan Consulting, Dubai