Under normal processing, this can take up to two weeks to complete.

In-country processing involves steps the foreign national must complete to obtain an Employment Residence Permit (ERP) after entering the country. Once the foreign national enters Dubai on an Employment Entry Permit, they must undergo a medical examination and Emirates ID biometrics and subsequently apply for an ERP and Freezone ID Card with the Jebel Ali Freezone Authority. According to the Authority, under VIP processing the medical examination, Emirates ID biometrics, and application submission are all completed in one working day and the ERP is delivered the following day.

What This Means for Employers

Clients operating in Jebel Ali free zone should benefit from quicker processing times.