How to get a residence visa in Dubai
Dubai has become one of the world's most attractive destinations for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking new opportunities in a dynamic, tax-friendly environment. Obtaining a residence visa in Dubai opens doors to living, working, and thriving in one of the Middle East's most cosmopolitan cities. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about securing your Dubai residence visa.
Understanding Dubai Residence Visas
A UAE residence visa is a long-term permit that allows foreigners to live and work in Dubai and the broader United Arab Emirates. Unlike tourist visas, which are temporary, residence visas provide legal residency status, access to essential services, and the ability to sponsor family members.
The UAE offers several types of residence visas, each designed for different categories of residents. Understanding which visa category applies to your situation is the first step toward successful application.
Types of Residence Visas in Dubai
Employment Visa
The employment visa is the most common type of residence permit in Dubai. It's issued to individuals who have secured employment with a UAE-based company. The sponsoring employer handles most of the application process and associated costs.
Key Features:
- Valid for 2 years (renewable)
- Sponsored by your employer
- Allows you to work legally in UAE
- Enables family sponsorship with minimum salary requirements
- Tied to your employment contract
Eligibility Requirements:
- Valid employment contract with UAE company
- Company must have valid trade license
- Position must match your qualifications
- Minimum salary threshold (varies by emirate and family sponsorship needs)
Investor Visa
Investor visas are granted to business owners and company shareholders who establish or invest in UAE businesses. This visa category provides greater flexibility and independence compared to employment visas.
Key Features:
- Valid for 2-3 years depending on investment
- No employer sponsorship required
- Can sponsor employees and family members
- Allows business operations and management
- Renewable as long as business remains active
Eligibility Requirements:
- Own shares in UAE company (mainland or free zone)
- Valid trade license in your name
- Proof of business premises (office lease)
- Minimum investment varies by jurisdiction
- Pass medical fitness test and security checks
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit offering 5 or 10 years of residency without the need for a sponsor. This prestigious visa category targets investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, and specialists who contribute significantly to UAE's development.
Key Features:
- Valid for 5 or 10 years
- No sponsor required
- Can stay outside UAE without visa cancellation
- Sponsor family members indefinitely
- Faster processing at airports
- 100% business ownership
Eligibility Categories:
Real Estate Investors:
- Purchase property worth minimum AED 2 million
- Property must be retained throughout visa validity
- Can be single property or multiple properties totaling AED 2 million
- Off-plan purchases acceptable with payment plan
Entrepreneurs and Investors:
- Own project with minimum capital of AED 500,000
- Previous or current business project of at least AED 500,000
- Approval from accredited business incubator
- Partnership in a new startup
Specialized Talents:
- Doctors, scientists, researchers, and inventors
- Creative individuals in culture and art
- PhD holders or specialized degree holders
- Outstanding students with minimum GPA 3.75
Dependent Visa (Family Sponsorship)
Once you have your own residence visa (employment or investor), you can sponsor immediate family members including spouse, children, and parents (subject to conditions).
Key Features:
- Validity matches sponsor's visa
- Sponsor spouse, children (any age), and parents
- Dependents can apply for work permits separately
- Access to UAE education and healthcare
- Same benefits as sponsor
Requirements for Family Sponsorship:
- Minimum salary threshold (AED 4,000-10,000 depending on family size)
- Suitable accommodation (attested tenancy contract)
- Sponsor's valid residence visa and Emirates ID
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificates (for children)
- Health insurance for dependents
Retirement Visa
The UAE introduced retirement visas for individuals aged 55 and above who wish to retire in Dubai, enjoying the country's lifestyle and climate.
Key Features:
- Valid for 5 years (renewable)
- No sponsor required
- Can sponsor spouse
- Part-time work permitted
- Access to all UAE services
Eligibility Requirements (one of the following):
- Own property in UAE worth at least AED 2 million
- Hold savings of at least AED 1 million
- Have active income of at least AED 20,000 monthly
- Combination of savings (AED 1 million) and property ownership
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Dubai Residence Visa
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Category
Assess your situation and identify which visa type applies to you. Are you employed by a UAE company, starting your own business, investing in real estate, or joining family? Your category determines the requirements and process ahead.
Step 2: Secure Your Sponsorship
For Employment Visa: Your employer initiates the process. Ensure your employment contract is signed and your company has the necessary quota for hiring.
For Investor Visa: Complete your company formation with approved trade license. Your business becomes your sponsor.
For Golden Visa: Gather eligibility proof such as property title deeds, investment documents, or qualification certificates.
For Family Visa: Ensure you meet minimum salary requirements and have suitable accommodation.
Step 3: Obtain Entry Permit
Your sponsor (employer or your own company) applies for an entry permit through the immigration system. This typically takes 3-5 working days.
If you're already in UAE on a tourist visa, this becomes a "change of status" application. If you're abroad, you'll receive an entry permit to enter UAE for visa processing.
Step 4: Enter UAE (If Abroad)
Use your entry permit to enter the UAE. Entry permits are typically valid for 60 days from issuance. Plan your travel accordingly to complete remaining steps within this timeframe.
Step 5: Complete Medical Fitness Test
All residence visa applicants must undergo a medical screening at government-approved health centers. The test screens for infectious diseases including tuberculosis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C.
What to Bring:
- Original passport
- Entry permit copy
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical test fees (approximately AED 300-500)
Results Timeframe: 24-48 hours for standard screening. If further tests are required, it may take longer.
Step 6: Submit Emirates ID Application
The Emirates ID is your official identification card in the UAE. Application is submitted at designated Emirates ID centers operated by Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
Required Documents:
- Original passport
- Entry permit
- Passport-size photograph
- Biometric registration (fingerprints and photo taken at center)
Processing Time: 5-10 working days for physical card delivery, though digital versions are often available immediately via smartphone apps.
Step 7: Receive Visa Stamping
Once medical results are clear and Emirates ID application is submitted, immigration authorities stamp your residence visa in your passport. This can be done at immigration offices or typing centers authorized to process visas.
Final Documents Received:
- Residence visa stamp in passport
- Emirates ID card (delivered to your address)
- Digital visa accessible through ICA smart apps
Step 8: Activate Your Visa
Your residence visa becomes active from the stamping date. The validity period begins from this date, not from application or entry date.
Documents Required for Dubai Residence Visa
General Documents (All Visa Types)
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- Entry permit or change of status approval
- Completed application forms
- Medical fitness certificate
- Emirates ID application receipt
Employment Visa Specific Documents
- Signed employment contract
- Educational certificates (attested)
- Previous employment documents (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate from current sponsor (if changing jobs in UAE)
- Company trade license copy
- Establishment card copy
Investor Visa Specific Documents
- Company trade license
- Memorandum of Association
- Share certificates or ownership proof
- Office tenancy contract (ejari)
- Bank account details
- Business plan (for some free zones)
Golden Visa Specific Documents
For Real Estate Investors:
- Property title deed
- Property valuation report
- Sales agreement or mortgage documents
- Proof of payment
For Entrepreneurs:
- Business license and ownership documents
- Financial statements showing investment amount
- Approval letter from incubator (if applicable)
- Project description and business plan
For Specialized Talents:
- PhD certificate or advanced degree (attested)
- Professional licenses or certifications
- Recommendation letters from authorities
- Portfolio or proof of achievements
Family Visa Specific Documents
- Sponsor's Emirates ID and passport copy
- Marriage certificate (attested by MOFA)
- Birth certificates for children (attested by MOFA)
- Sponsor's salary certificate
- Tenancy contract (ejari) showing adequate accommodation
- Bank statements proving minimum salary
- Health insurance for dependents
Document Attestation Process
Many documents require attestation (legalization) to be accepted by UAE authorities. The attestation process verifies document authenticity through a chain of validations.
Attestation Chain for Foreign Documents:
- Notary Public in issuing country
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs in issuing country
- UAE Embassy in issuing country
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in UAE
Common Documents Requiring Attestation:
- Marriage certificates
- Birth certificates
- Educational degrees and transcripts
- Previous employment letters
- Medical reports (in some cases)
Timeline: Complete attestation can take 2-4 weeks depending on the country. Many attestation service providers can expedite this process for a fee.
Costs Involved in Getting a Dubai Residence Visa
Residence visa costs vary depending on the type of visa, sponsoring entity, and additional services required.
Typical Cost Breakdown
Employment Visa (2 years):
- Entry permit: AED 300-500
- Medical test: AED 300-500
- Emirates ID: AED 370 (2 years)
- Visa stamping: AED 500-750
- Typing and processing fees: AED 200-300
- Total: Approximately AED 1,700-2,500
Investor Visa (2-3 years):
- Entry permit: AED 500-1,000
- Medical test: AED 300-500
- Emirates ID: AED 370-540
- Visa stamping: AED 1,000-1,500
- Processing fees: AED 500-1,000
- Total: Approximately AED 2,700-4,500
Golden Visa (10 years):
- Entry permit: AED 1,000
- Medical test: AED 300-500
- Emirates ID: AED 1,070 (10 years)
- Visa stamping: AED 3,000-5,000
- Processing fees: AED 1,000-2,000
- Total: Approximately AED 6,400-9,600
Dependent Visa (per person):
- Entry permit: AED 300-500
- Medical test: AED 300-500
- Emirates ID: AED 370
- Visa stamping: AED 500-750
- Total: Approximately AED 1,500-2,200 per dependent
Note: Costs are approximate and may vary based on specific circumstances and service providers.
Processing Timeline
Understanding typical processing times helps you plan your relocation or visa application effectively.
Standard Processing Timeline:
- Entry permit application: 3-5 working days
- Medical fitness test: 1-2 days
- Test results: 24-48 hours
- Emirates ID application: Same day
- Visa stamping: 3-5 working days
- Emirates ID card delivery: 5-10 working days
Total Timeline: 2-3 weeks from entry permit application to final visa stamping, assuming all documents are correct and no complications arise.
Golden Visa Timeline: 3-4 weeks due to additional verification processes.
Expedited Processing: Some free zones and service providers offer expedited processing reducing timeline to 5-7 working days for additional fees.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Medical Test Issues
Some applicants face medical test complications if screened conditions are detected. While conditions like HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis B typically result in visa rejection, other conditions may require additional documentation or specialist review.
Solution: Ensure you're in good health before applying. If you have a manageable condition, obtain medical reports from your home country demonstrating it's controlled and doesn't pose public health risk.
Document Attestation Delays
Attestation through embassies can take weeks, causing application delays.
Solution: Start attestation process well in advance. Consider using professional attestation services that have established relationships with embassies and can expedite processing.
Insufficient Salary for Family Sponsorship
Many applicants are surprised by minimum salary requirements for sponsoring family members.
Solution: Understand requirements before relocating. If salary is insufficient, consider waiting for a raise, negotiating with employer, or exploring alternative arrangements like spouse obtaining their own employment visa.
Bank Account Opening Difficulties
Opening bank accounts sometimes proves challenging for new residents.
Solution: Work with business setup consultants who have banking relationships. Bring comprehensive documentation including employment contract, salary certificate, residence visa, and Emirates ID. Consider digital banks with simplified requirements.
Tips for a Smooth Visa Application Process
1. Start Early: Begin gathering and attesting documents before arriving in UAE. This significantly reduces waiting time once you're in the country.
2. Use Professional Services: Business setup consultants and PRO services navigate the process efficiently, handling appointments, submissions, and follow-ups on your behalf.
3. Keep Documents Organized: Maintain physical and digital copies of all documents. Create a checklist and mark items as completed.
4. Verify Requirements: Rules occasionally change. Verify current requirements with official sources or professional consultants before proceeding.
5. Plan for Contingencies: Build buffer time into your plans. Unexpected issues like document rejections or additional requirements can delay processing.
6. Download Smart Apps: Install ICA UAE Smart and FAIC apps for digital visa access, application tracking, and important notifications.
7. Maintain Valid Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for residence visa issuance. Secure appropriate coverage before applying.
8. Stay in Touch with Sponsor: Regular communication with your sponsor (employer or PRO service) ensures you're informed of progress and any issues.
After Receiving Your Residence Visa
Once you have your residence visa, several important tasks remain:
Open Bank Accounts
With your Emirates ID and residence visa, you can open personal and business bank accounts. Choose banks based on your needs, whether international transfers, business banking facilities, or investment services.
Register for Healthcare
While private health insurance is mandatory, registering with healthcare providers ensures smooth access when needed. Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) cards may be required depending on location.
Obtain Driving License
UAE residence visa holders can convert foreign driving licenses or apply for new ones. Requirements vary by country of origin. Some nationalities can directly exchange licenses, while others must complete driving tests.
Register Children for School
If you've sponsored children, begin school registration immediately. Popular schools have long waiting lists, so early application is crucial.
Maintain Visa Validity
Residence visas require periodic renewal and have specific stay requirements:
- Employment Visa: Don't stay outside UAE for more than 6 months continuously
- Investor Visa: Maximum 12 months outside UAE
- Golden Visa: No time restrictions on staying outside UAE
Visa Renewal Process
Residence visas require renewal before expiry. The renewal process is generally simpler than initial application but still requires documentation and fees.
Renewal Requirements:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months remaining)
- Current Emirates ID
- Medical fitness test (new screening required)
- Continued employment or active business license
- Payment of renewal fees
Timeline: Begin renewal process 2-3 months before expiry to ensure continuous legal status.
Conclusion
Obtaining a residence visa in Dubai is a structured process that, while involving multiple steps, is highly manageable with proper preparation and guidance. Whether you're coming for employment, starting a business, investing in real estate, or joining family, Dubai offers various visa pathways to accommodate different situations.
The key to success lies in understanding your specific visa category, gathering the right documents, following procedures correctly, and ideally working with experienced professionals who navigate these processes daily. With your residence visa secured, you'll unlock the full potential of living, working, and thriving in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
MyDubaiBiz specializes in guiding individuals and businesses through every step of the residence visa process. Our team handles documentation, coordinates with authorities, and ensures your application proceeds smoothly from start to finish. Contact us today to begin your Dubai journey with confidence.
