Transferring sponsorship in Dubai: A comprehensive guide
Transferring sponsorship in Dubai is a significant process for companies and expats operating in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This process allows sponsorship to be transferred from one company or individual to another, which for many is a crucial step in company management. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about transferring sponsorship, including procedures, requirements and frequently asked questions.
What is sponsorship in Dubai?
In Dubai, a sponsorship system is required to regulate the legal aspects of expatriate residency and corporate activities. The sponsor can be an individual or a company that takes responsibility for the sponsored employee or person. This can take various forms, including
- Employer sponsorship
- Family sponsorship
- Sponsorship by an owner company
Why is the transfer of sponsorship necessary?
The transfer of sponsorship may be necessary for a number of reasons, including
- Change of employment of an expat
- Company mergers or acquisitions
- Changes in family sponsorship, e.g. divorce or death of the sponsor
How does the transfer of sponsorship work in Dubai?
The transfer of sponsorship is a multi-step process that must be carried out carefully:
- Submission of the application: the application for transfer must be submitted to the relevant Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Required Documents: Prepare the required documents such as the employment contract, passport copies and the current sponsorship agreement.
- Approval of the new sponsor: The new sponsor must be willing to take on the responsibility and obtain the relevant authorisations.
- Finalising the transfer: Once approved, the sponsorship is officially transferred to the new sponsor, which also requires the relevant documentation to be updated.
Frequently asked questions about the transfer of sponsorship in Dubai
Who can transfer the sponsorship?
Normally, both individuals and companies can act as sponsors. However, the new sponsor must fulfil the legal requirements and approvals.
How long does the transfer process take?
The duration of the transfer process can vary, but it usually takes between 1 and 3 weeks, depending on the specific requirements and the efficiency of the authorities.
What are the costs involved in transferring the sponsorship?
The costs depend on the fees charged by the competent authorities and possible legal fees. It is advisable to find out in advance.
Illustrative example on the topic: Transfer of sponsorship in Dubai
An illustrative example of the transfer of sponsorship in Dubai could be the story of Lisa and her employer, an international company. Lisa, an expatriate from Germany, had been working in Dubai for three years. Her company merged with another one, which necessitated changes in management. Her new manager, who was responsible for personnel decisions, decided to transfer Lisa to the new sponsorship in order to continue using her services. After submitting all the necessary paperwork to the authorities and receiving approval from the new sponsor, the process went smoothly. Lisa was able to maintain her work visa and continue her professional career in Dubai.
Conclusion
Transferring sponsorship in Dubai is an essential process for expats and companies in the UAE. By understanding the requirements, steps and potential challenges, interested parties can manage this process efficiently. Understand the legal requirements and when in doubt, consult a professional to ensure the transfer is legal and smooth.
If you want to learn more about the different aspects of living and working in Dubai, we recommend you also look into the property market or buyer’s market to get a more comprehensive picture of living and working conditions in this dynamic city.
