If you are considering moving to Dubai or the UAE, obtaining a residency visa is a crucial step. This visa allows you to live and work in the UAE, offering various benefits such as access to healthcare and the ability of open a bank account. Let’s take you through the process of applying for a UAE residency visa, including requirements, procedures and processing times.
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Types of UAE residency visas
Before starting your residency application process, it’s important to understand the different types of UAE residency visas available. Each visa type has its own eligibility criteria, required documentation, and costs. Here are the main types of UAE residency visas.
Employment visa
The Employment Visa is for individuals who have secured a job in the UAE. This type of visa is employer-sponsored, meaning the company you work for handles the visa process and associated costs.
Eligibility: Employment contract in the UAE.
Cost: The cost varies based on the company’s size and the employee’s job position. Typically, the visa ranges between AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 (approximately $817 to $2,722). The employer generally covers this cost, but some companies may ask the employee to reimburse it.
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Investor visa
The Investor Visa is designed for those looking to invest in property or start a business in Dubai or the UAE. This visa grants residency to entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors who meet certain financial thresholds.
Eligibility: Ownership of property worth at least AED 1 million or an investment in a UAE-based business.
Cost: AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 (approximately $1,361 to $4,083), depending on the investment amount and other related fees. Additional fees apply for setting up a business.
Family visa
The Family Visa allows expats already holding a UAE residency visa to sponsor their spouse, children, and sometimes even parents to live with them in a UAE. This sponsor must meet a minimum salary requirement to be eligible.
Eligibility: Family member of a UAE resident and sufficient income.
Cost: AED 2,000 to AED 5,000 (approximately $544 to $1,361) per family member, depending on the number of dependents.
Student visa
The Student Visa is available for those enrolled in a UAE-based educational institution. The school or university typically sponsors the visa.
Eligibility: Proof of enrolment in a UAE institution.
Cost: AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 (approximately $272 to $817), depending on the length of the course and the institution’s requirements.
Retirement visa
The Retirement Visa is available for retirees over the age of 55 who wish to settle in the UAE. Applicants must meet certain financial criteria, such as a minimum investment or savings threshold.
Eligibility: Age over 55 and proof of financial security: AED 1 million savings (approximately $272,260) or AED 20,000 monthly income (approximately $5,445).
Cost: AED 5,000 to AED 7,000 (approximately $1,361 to $1,905), depending on the type of proof of income and other related requirements.
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How to apply for these residency visas
Secure a sponsor
To apply for a UAE residency visa, you must have a sponsor. This sponsor can be:
- Your employer (for an employment visa)
- A family member (for a family visa)
- Yourself (if you are an investor or property owner)
Your sponsor will handle most of the paperwork, particularly for employment visas.
Gather the required documents
Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you will need the following documents:
- Valid passport: Ensure your passport is valid for a least six months
- Passport-sized photos: Typically, you’ll need two passport photos with a white background
- Visa application form: Completed and signed by you and your sponsor
- Proof of residency: This could be a lease agreement or property ownership documents
- Medical certificate: A health checkup report from an authorised UAE medical centre
- Sponsorship documents: Proof of sponsorship from your employer or family member, including salary and employment details for employment visas.
Undergo medical testing
All applicants for UAE residency visa are required to pass a medical examination, which includes a blood-test and chest x-rays. This process is crucial for detecting communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and hepatitis. If you pass the medical exam, you will receive a medical certificate, which is mandatory for visa approval.
Apply for an Emirates ID
Once your medical results are in, you’ll need to apply for an Emirates ID. The Emirates ID is essential for various services, including opening bank accounts, signing contracts and accessing healthcare. You can apply for it at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) centres or online.
Submit your application
Once you have all the necessary documents and your medical results, your sponsor will submit the residency visa application on your behalf. If you are applying as an investor or self-sponsor, you will submit it yourself. The application can be done either online via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or at one of the typing centres in the UAE.
Pay the visa fee
The cost of the UAE residency visa varies depending on the type of visa and its duration. For example, an employment visa may cost between AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 (approximately $817 to $2,722). You’ll also need to pay for medical exams and the Emirates ID application. The cost for the Emirates ID is AED 370 (approximately $100).
Processing time
The processing time for a UAE residency visa can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of visa and whether all documents are in order. It’s important to track your application status through the GDRFA or FAIC websites to ensure it’s being processed.
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Final notes
Moving to Dubai or the UAE and obtaining a UAE residency visa is a straightforward process if you follow the step carefully. Whether you are relocating for work, investment or family reasons, securing the right visa will ensure your move goes smoothly. Make sure to gather all required documents, undergo the necessary medical exams, and pay close attention to the type of visa you’re applying for. More about moving to Dubai on the blog here.
