How do I sponsor a new employee who is currently overstaying in the UAE?

An employer can usually bring an overstaying candidate onto a valid employment visa, but the overstay must be resolved as part of the process. The general route is to begin the standard work-visa procedure — work offer/permit through MOHRE for mainland roles (or the relevant free-zone authority), followed by the entry permit and residence steps through immigration — while settling any outstanding overstay fine, which typically has to be paid before a new visa is issued unless an amnesty is active. Depending on the candidate's current situation, the change may be done as an in-country status adjustment or may require a status-change exit, so the immigration authority (GDRFA in Dubai or the ICP) will confirm which applies. Make sure your company's establishment card and licence are valid, as sponsor-side problems are a common cause of refusals. Because fees, eligibility, and the exact sequence depend on the role type, free-zone vs mainland, and any flags on the candidate's file, confirm the current requirements with MOHRE and immigration before committing. For unusual cases — prior bans or absconding flags on the candidate — verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI can advise.