What is typically the hiring process in Dubai? I have gone through a series of interviews, done my negotiations and will be getting my final offer this week. The HR deptt asked me to get my educational degree attested from the home country. This was done last week and I should be receiving the attested degree tomorrow. What happens next?

1. Do I need to send the original attested educational degree to the HR? I am not comfortable since I may never see it again. Does the Company need the originals to secure an employment visa or would a photocopy be sufficient?

2. Alternatively, since I am a Canadian citizen I do not need a visit visa to enter Dubai . If I enter Dubai on a visit visa , can it be easily converted to an employment visa? My family can follow or accompany me.

Any advise will be appreciated.