UAE Halves Police Clearance Fees and Restricts Visit-to-Work Visa Conversions

The United Arab Emirates has implemented new visa regulations impacting foreign nationals, particularly those travelling from countries like Nepal. A significant change is the halving of the authentication fee for police clearance reports required for work visas, which has been reduced from AED 354 to AED 172.

Simultaneously, the UAE is preparing to introduce a new restriction preventing individuals on visit visas from converting them into work permits while within the country. This measure aims to address issues such as recruitment fraud and exploitation of vulnerable individuals who enter on tourist visas hoping to find employment. This restriction is awaiting an official announcement.

While the police clearance requirement has been removed for Nepali nationals travelling on visit visas, those applying for work visas must still submit authenticated police reports. Visit visas for Nepali nationals are currently issued through UAE immigration authorities in Abu Dhabi.

The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security from Nepal is engaging in diplomatic efforts to advocate for the complete abolition of the police clearance authentication fee, citing the direct financial burden on migrant workers. The UAE government has reportedly shown a positive response to this proposal. The police clearance requirement was initially introduced for Nepali nationals following the Gen Z protests last year, which added to the cost and administrative challenges for those seeking work abroad.