Government Relations Specialist

Position Overview: The Government Relations Specialist will oversee government-related processes for a group of companies with over 1,000 employees, based in both Freezones (JLT, Jebel Ali) and mainland UAE. The role involves managing large-scale visa and work permit applications while coordinating with the company-appointed PRO to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.

Responsibilities:

1. Visa and Work Permit Management: Handle the full process of visa and work permit applications, renewals, and cancellations for both Freezone and mainland employees, ensuring high volumes are managed efficiently.
2. In-House Typing Setup: Establish and manage in-house typing capabilities with the support of the HR team for processing government applications, ensuring accuracy and speed in document preparation.
3. Application Typing: Manage and ensure accurate large-scale typing of government applications, including visa, work permit, and related documents, following UAE labor and immigration guidelines.
4. Government Liaison: Work closely with the company-appointed PRO to facilitate communication with government authorities and Freezone entities, ensuring smooth application processes.
5. Compliance Management: Stay informed of changes in UAE labor, immigration laws, and Freezone regulations, ensuring all processes are aligned with current legal requirements.
6. Document Management: Ensure proper collection, verification, and submission of employee documents for visas, work permits, medicals, Emirates IDs, and related government requirements.
7. Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all employee visas, work permits, and other government-related documents, ensuring timely renewals and compliance.
8. Reporting: Provide regular updates and reports to management regarding the status of employee applications and in-house typing operations.
9. Problem Solving: Collaborate with the PRO and government bodies to resolve any issues or delays in the visa and work permit processes.
10. Employee Support: Offer guidance to employees on their visa and work permit status, ensuring their concerns are addressed effectively.

Desired Candidate Profile:

• 5+ years of experience in government relations, with expertise in managing large-scale visa and work permit applications.
• Proven experience in setting up and managing in-house typing capabilities for government-related applications.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws, immigration regulations, and Freezone-specific rules.
• Excellent communication skills to work effectively with the PRO and internal teams.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet strict deadlines.
• Proficiency in Arabic and English (spoken and written).

Employment Type: Full Time

Company Industry: Printing, Packaging

Department / Functional Area: Administration

Keywords: Typing, Documentation, Government Relations