The following key changes are expected to impact the work permits process:

1. A standardised offer letter in Arabic, English and, if required, in a third language that the candidate understands, will have to be prepared through the Labour Ministry's electronic system at a Tasheel Service Centre. The offer letter will be signed electronically by the employer, and will require signature from the proposed candidate. The signed offer letter will then be submitted to the Ministry alongside other documents for the work permit application.

2. The Ministry has also announced the issuing of a new employment contract template which will have to be prepared at a Tasheel Service Centre within 14 days of the candidate's arrival in the UAE based on the employment entry permit, or from the date of the local status amendment. The employment contract terms will have to match those stated on the offer letter. It is expected that the full text of the offer letter and the new employment contract will be available from 1 January 2016.