In the UAE, the law is crystal clear regarding who has to pay the recruitment cost as well as processing the visa — and it isn’t the worker. As per Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations, all costs of recruitment and employment fall exclusively on employers and also work permit charges and visa.
Top Facts from UAE Labour Law:
1. No Deduction Permitted: Employers are not permitted to deduct recruitment fees, visa fees, work permit fees, or any charges paid to labour recruitment agencies from your wages. This will also include the Emirates ID charge, medical testing charges, and stamping charges.
2. Employment Offers Should Be Open: The offer of employment and labour contract shall accurately portray the terms and conditions of employment. If an undertaking was given to bear the cost, it should be legally met.
3. Penalties for Violations: Firms convicted of making workers pay for these charges may be fined between AED 20,000 and AED 100,000.
4. Domestic Workers Are Also Protected: These rules also cover domestic workers, according to Federal Law No. 10 of 2017.
What to Do If You’re Affected
If your employer is deducting visa or recruitment fees from your wages, you can:
i. Report to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) through their app or call center (600 590000)
ii. Approach a labour lawyer or legal aid services
iii. Utilise Twa-fouq centres to resolve labour disputes
No, it is illegal for employers within the UAE to deduct visa or recruitment fees from your pay. The law is established to safeguard employees from unjustified monetary charges while at work.
