The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has outlined the official requirements governing the transfer of non-UAE workers between private-sector establishments through its Transfer Work Permit service, allowing eligible employers to recruit workers from other establishments registered with the Ministry.

According to the Ministry’s service guidelines, applicants must be at least 18 years old, and their proposed occupation must correspond to the new establishment’s licensed business activities. Workers entering regulated professions must also satisfy the applicable professional licensing requirements.

The new employer must hold a valid business licence and must not have violations resulting in the suspension of its operations. Applications must be submitted by an authorised signatory, and the worker must not hold an active work permit when the new application is filed.

The Ministry also requires applications for new transfer permits to be submitted within 90 days following cancellation of the previous work permit. Transfers must comply with UAE employment legislation, including the rules governing lawful contract termination and movement between employers.

Required documents include a recent colour photograph against a white background, a passport valid for at least six months, and an official Ministry-issued job offer signed by both parties. Additional professional or educational documents may be necessary depending on the occupation.

The Ministry lists a standard service completion period of two working days, subject to meeting the applicable requirements. The resulting work permit is valid for two years, and applications can be submitted through the Ministry’s website, mobile application, or authorised service centres.

Source: UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.