Visa status, notice period and availability on a UAE CV
Three short lines many Gulf recruiters look for, and how to write each one clearly and honestly.
- Visa status tells an employer what paperwork hiring you would need.
- Notice period or availability tells them when you can start.
- Put both near your contact details, one line each.
- Only write what is true and current. Update it when it changes.
Why UAE employers ask
Hiring in the UAE involves a work permit and residence visa, and the steps depend on where you are and what visa you hold now. A recruiter comparing two similar candidates may call the one who can start sooner. A clear line on your CV saves them a question.
This is common practice in the Gulf, not a rule. Some international companies prefer not to see it, and many online forms ask for it separately. If a form asks, you can leave it off the CV.
How to write your visa status
Keep it factual and short. Examples:
- Visa status: UAE residence visa (employment), valid until March 2027
- Visa status: Family-sponsored residence visa, can work with a work permit
- Visa status: Visit visa, valid until 20 November 2026
- Visa status: Golden visa holder
- Visa status: Based in India, available to relocate to the UAE
If you are not sure of the exact type or date, check your documents before writing it. Getting it wrong costs more trust than leaving it out.
Notice period and availability
Your employment contract sets your notice period. Write it the way recruiters ask for it:
- Notice period: 30 days
- Available: immediately
- Available from: 1 December 2026
If you are between jobs and ready to start, "Available: immediately" is one of the most useful lines you can add.
Where to put these lines
Under your name and contact details, in the same small type. Keep a +971 mobile number there too if you have one: recruiters in the UAE often call before they email.
Aisha Rahman · +971 50 000 0000 · aisha.rahman@email.com · Dubai
Visa status: Visit visa, valid until 20 November 2026 · Available: immediately
Job hunting on a visit visa
- Get a local number early and put it on your CV.
- Write the visa end date so employers can plan.
- Apply in your first weeks, when you have the most time for interviews.
- Have copies of your passport, photo and certificates ready. Many employers ask for attested educational certificates at the offer stage, so check what your target role needs.
- Only use job offers from employers you can verify. A real employer does not ask you to pay for a job.
Driving licence
For any job that involves driving, and many that do not, a UAE licence is a strong line. Write the type, for example "UAE driving licence (light vehicle)". If you hold a licence from another country, say which one.
Questions
Do I have to put my visa status on my CV?
No. It is common in the Gulf and can help, but it is optional. Leave it out if the application form asks separately or the employer is an international company that prefers not to see it.
How do I write that I am on a visit visa?
One line near your contact details, for example: "Visa status: Visit visa, valid until 20 November 2026". Add "Available: immediately" if you can start now.
What notice period should I write?
The one in your current contract, for example "Notice period: 30 days". If you are not working, write "Available: immediately".