General guidance for employers and job seekers navigating overseas placement.
These articles are general information only and do not constitute legal, immigration, or professional advice. Visa rules, fees, and procedures vary by country and change over time — always confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy/authority or with KETBIM directly.
Employer & candidate guidance
Understanding the UAE Work Visa Process
Moving to the UAE for work generally follows a sequence: the employer secures a job offer and initiates a work permit application on the candidate's behalf, the candidate then receives an entry permit to travel, completes a medical fitness test on arrival, and applies for an Emirates ID. Once these steps clear, the residence visa is stamped into the passport and, where applicable, a labour card is issued confirming the employment relationship.
Each stage depends on accurate documentation — passport validity, educational or trade certificates, and medical results — which is why KETBIM coordinates paperwork closely with both the employer and the candidate rather than leaving it to either side alone. Requirements and fees can change, so treat this as a general roadmap rather than a step-by-step guarantee for any individual case.
For candidates
What to Expect During Pre-Departure Orientation
Pre-departure orientation is the briefing that happens after your documentation and visa are in order, but before you travel. It typically covers what daily life and workplace culture look like in your destination country, the terms of your contract in plain language, and a checklist of what to carry — original documents, contact numbers, and copies of your paperwork.
You'll also be given emergency and welfare contacts to reach if anything goes wrong after arrival, and a reminder of your rights and responsibilities under your contract. The goal is that nothing about your first weeks abroad comes as a surprise.
Choosing a partner
5 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Recruitment Agency
Is the agency licensed to recruit internationally, and can they show their registration?
Do they charge candidates any fees, and if so, are those fees disclosed clearly in writing upfront?
Will you receive a written contract before you travel, in a language you understand?
What support do they offer after you arrive and start work — is there a real point of contact?
Can they explain how the employer was vetted, and what happens if the role doesn't match what was promised?
A credible agency should answer all five without hesitation. If any answer is vague, that's worth treating as a warning sign.
