Abu Dhabi: Expatriates applying for a job in the UAE must first obtain a certificate of good conduct in order to be issued a work permit, a UAE government body has announced.

The new rule will take effect from February 4, 2018.

The official news agency WAM reported on Monday that the UAE Coordination Committee approved a Cabinet Resolution issued in 2017 stipulating that expatriates who apply for work visa in the UAE must first obtain a certificate of good conduct — issued by either by his home country or the country where he lived for five years.

The certificate must then be attested by UAE diplomatic missions, or oversees Customer Happiness Centres at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The committee, which consists of members representing relevant UAE government bodies, said the move comes as part of efforts to create a safer society.

The rule also stems from the UAE’s belief in the importance of protecting community members and ensuring that they enjoy a safe life, making the UAE as one of the most secure countries in the world.

The committee clarified that the certificate is not required from those who come to the country on a visit or tourist visa.