UAE Residence Visa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a popular destination for expatriates seeking employment, investment, or a better lifestyle. The UAE offers many advantages for foreigners with its modern infrastructure, booming economy, and tax-free environment. However, you need a UAE Residence Visa to live and work in the UAE long-term. This visa opens the doors to various benefits, including access to financial services, healthcare, and the ability to sponsor family members. In this guide, we will explore what the UAE Residence Visa entails, the different types of residence visas, the eligibility criteria, and the application process. Whether you're moving to the UAE for work, education, investment, or family reasons, this article will provide you with all the essential information.

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What is a UAE Residence Visa?

A UAE Residence Visa permits foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE for an extended period. The visa is typically issued for 1 to 3 years, although long-term visas of 5 to 10 years are also available under special circumstances, such as for investors and retirees. The visa can be renewed multiple times, allowing expatriates to stay in the UAE for as long as their circumstances permit.

Unlike a tourist visa, which is short-term and specific to travel purposes, the UAE Residence Visa grants the holder various rights, including the ability to:

• Open a UAE bank account
• Apply for personal, car, or home loans
• Sponsor family members for residency
• Access public or private healthcare services
• Enroll children in UAE schools
• Get a UAE drivers license
• Travel visa-free to certain countries

Individuals must obtain an entry permit to apply for a UAE residence visa. This entry permit is valid for a limited period, during which the applicant must finalise their residence visa application.

Also read:  What is a Visit Visa in the UAE?

Key Benefits of a UAE Residence Visa

Securing a UAE Residence Visa provides numerous benefits:

• Financial Services: You can open a bank account, apply for loans, and access credit facilities.
• Family Sponsorship: As a UAE resident, you can sponsor your immediate family members for their own residence visas.
• Healthcare Access: You can benefit from government healthcare services and health insurance plans.
• Education for Children: Your children can attend government or private schools in the UAE.
• Visa-Free Travel: UAE residents enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to multiple countries, enhancing travel convenience.

Who is Eligible for a UAE Residence Visa?

To qualify for a UAE Residence Visa, you must fall under one of the following categories:

• Employment in the UAE: Foreign nationals who secure a job in the UAE can obtain a residence visa sponsored by their employer. This includes employment in both government and private sectors. 
• Education in the UAE: Students accepted into educational institutions in the UAE can get a residence visa. Their respective universities or schools sponsor them.
• Dependents of UAE Residents or Citizens: Spouses, children, parents, and other close relatives of UAE citizens or foreign residents can be sponsored for a family residence visa.
• Investors in the UAE: Individuals who make significant investments (such as property investment or a business venture) are eligible for a long-term residence visa.
• Property Owners: Foreigners who purchase property in the UAE can apply for a residence visa if the property meets a specified minimum value.
• Retirees: Individuals who meet the financial criteria can apply for a retirement visa, which allows them to live in the UAE long-term.
• Freelancers and Remote Workers: The Work Remotely from Dubai program allows freelancers and remote workers to live in Dubai while working for international clients or companies.

Types of UAE Residence Visas

There are different types of UAE Residence Visas based on the purpose of your stay. Let�???�??�?�¢??s explore each one in detail:

UAE 10-Year Golden Visa

The UAE 10-Year Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa granted to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in various fields such as science, technology, culture, and business. It is primarily aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, and researchers who contribute to the growth and innovation of the UAE. Benefits include:

• Renewable 10-year visa
• The ability to sponsor family members
• There is no need for an employer or sponsor to reside in the UAE
• Multiple-entry visa for six months to complete the residence process

UAE 5-Year Golden Visa

The UAE 5-Year Golden Visa offers long-term residence options for outstanding students, entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals with specialised talents. This visa is similar to the 10-year Golden Visa but is targeted at individuals who qualify under specific investment or achievement-based criteria for a shorter duration. Benefits include:

• Renewable 5-year visa
• Sponsorship for family members
• Freedom to reside and work without a local sponsor

UAE Retirement Visa

The UAE Retirement Visa is designed for foreign nationals aged 55 or older who wish to retire in the UAE. To qualify, individuals must meet specific financial criteria, such as owning property worth AED 2 million, having savings of AED 1 million, or having an active income of AED 20,000 per month. This visa is valid for five years and can be renewed.

UAE Employment Visa

The UAE Employment Visa is issued to foreigners who have secured a job in the UAE. This visa is sponsored by the employer and allows the holder to live and work in the UAE. The visa is generally valid for 2-3 years, depending on the employment contract, and can be renewed as long as the job remains valid.

UAE Company Investor Visa

The UAE Company Investor Visa is issued to foreign nationals who invest in a business or establish a company in the UAE. Investors who contribute substantial capital are eligible for this visa, which is typically valid for three years. The investor visa also allows holders to sponsor family members and live in the UAE while managing their business.

UAE Family Visa

The UAE Family Visa allows residents or citizens to sponsor their immediate family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents. Sponsors must meet financial requirements to support their dependents. The visa duration depends on the type of sponsor's residence visa and is typically valid for 1 to 3 years.

UAE Domestic Workers Visa

The UAE Domestic Workers Visa allows UAE residents or citizens to sponsor domestic workers such as maids, nannies, cooks, or drivers. Sponsors must meet specific salary and accommodation requirements to obtain this visa. The visa is usually valid for two years and can be renewed based on continuing employment.

UAE Specialist Resident Visa

The UAE Specialist Resident Visa is a special visa for skilled professionals, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, technology, and education. This visa is designed to attract individuals with expertise in fields that are vital to the development of the UAE economy. It can be issued for up to 10 years, depending on the profession and qualifications.

UAE Student Visa

The UAE Student Visa is granted to foreign nationals who are accepted into an accredited university or educational institution in the UAE. The visa is sponsored by the educational institution and is valid for the duration of the student's studies, typically ranging from 1 to 4 years. Students must renew their visa as they progress through their academic programs.

Green Visa 

The Green Visa is a new type of visa aimed at freelancers, self-employed individuals, and highly skilled workers. It allows the holder to sponsor themselves without the need for a company sponsor. It offers flexible terms and is designed to attract talent to the UAE. The Green Visa is typically valid for five years.

UAE Blue Visa

The Blue Visa is a 10-year residence visa designed for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability and protection. It is issued to environmental advocates, activists, researchers, and members of international organisations who are dedicated to environmental causes.

Also read:  Freelance Visa in Dubai

Need for an Entry Permit for UAE Residence Visa 

An entry permit is the initial step in obtaining a UAE residence visa. It allows foreigners to enter the UAE legally and is typically valid for a short period, usually ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the nature of the visit.

• Purpose: The entry permit is a temporary document that allows individuals to enter the UAE with the intent to complete the necessary formalities for a residence visa, such as undergoing medical exams, securing employment, or finalising investment processes.
• Validity: Entry permits are usually valid for 30 to 90 days. For instance, an entry permit for employment purposes might last 90 days, while a tourist entry permit is generally valid for 30 days.

Your sponsor, whether it's your employer, spouse, educational institution, or a business entity, must apply for your entry permit prior to your arrival in the UAE. Once you�???�??�?�¢??ve entered the country using this permit, your sponsor will initiate the application process for your residence visa.

Requirements for a UAE Residence Visa

To apply for a UAE Residence Visa, you must provide several supporting documents. The required documents depend on the type of visa, but generally, you will need:

• UAE Visa Application Form: You can obtain this online or at a typing centre in the UAE.
• Passport: Your original passport, valid for at least six months.
• Passport-size Photos: Two recent passport-size photos meeting the UAE visa photo guidelines.
• Entry Permit: The entry visa or permit that allows you to enter the UAE.
• Proof of Sponsorship: Your sponsor's proof of UAE residency or citizenship (e.g., Emirates ID).
• Medical Fitness Test: All foreign nationals must pass a medical exam before receiving a residence visa; the exam tests for infectious diseases.
• Proof of UAE Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all UAE residents.
• For Family Visas: Proof of family ties, such as birth or marriage certificates.
• For Work Visas: The employer must submit a copy of the employment contract, trade license, and company card.
• Additional Documents: Depending on the purpose of your stay (e.g., investment, education), additional documents may be required.

How to Get a Dubai Residence Visa?

Dubai, being one of the seven emirates of the UAE, follows the same general procedures for obtaining a residence visa. You need a sponsor in Dubai, such as an employer, family member, or yourself, if you are investing or purchasing a property.

The sponsor applies for the entry permit and then the residence visa at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or an Amer center. Once your residence visa is approved, you will receive an Emirates ID for identification and access to government services.

UAE Residence Visa Application Process

Applying for a UAE Residence Visa is a multi-step process; in most cases, a sponsor must file the application on your behalf.

Step 1: Entry Permit Application

As mentioned above, Before applying for a residence visa, you must enter the UAE using an entry permit. Your sponsor (employer, family member, or educational institution) must apply for this permit, which allows you to enter the UAE to complete the residence visa process.

Step 2: Residence Visa Application

Once you are in the UAE with an entry permit, your sponsor will apply for your residence visa at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the relevant emirate.

Here is a step-by-step overview of the process:

• Medical Fitness Test: Before applying for a residence visa, you must undergo a medical fitness test at an authorised health centre in the UAE.
• Emirates ID Application: Along with the residence visa, your sponsor will also apply for an Emirates ID card. This card is required for various activities, such as opening a bank account and accessing government services.
• Submit Documents: Your sponsor submits all required documents, including proof of health insurance, entry permit, and the medical fitness test results.
• Pay Visa Fees: The residence visa fee depends on the visa's duration (1, 2, or 3 years). Your sponsor will pay the visa fees on your behalf.
• Receive Visa: After your application is approved, the GDRFA will affix the residence visa sticker to your passport, and you will receive your Emirates ID.

Fees for UAE Residence Visa

The fees for a UAE Residence Visa vary depending on the visa's duration and the processing location. Additional costs may include: 

• Medical fitness test 
• Health insurance
• Emirates ID 

Validity of UAE Residence Visa

Your UAE Residence Visa's validity depends on the purpose of your stay. Generally, residence visas are issued for 1, 2, or 3 years, but long-term investment or retirement visas are available for 5 to 10 years.

Renewing a UAE Residence Visa

A UAE Residence Visa is renewable, but the process must be completed within the 30-day grace period before the visa expires. Sponsors are responsible for submitting the renewal application at the GDRFA in the emirate where the visa was issued. 

Steps for Renewal:

•  Medical Fitness Test: Just like when obtaining the visa initially, you must pass a medical fitness test.
•  Health Insurance: Ensure that your UAE health insurance is up-to-date and valid.
•  Emirates ID: Your Emirates ID must also be renewed for the same duration as your visa.

The UAE Residence Visa renewal process is handled by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate where the visa was issued.

UAE Visa Renewal for Divorced Women and Widows

In October 2018, the UAE government introduced a new rule allowing widows and divorced women of UAE residents to remain in the country without a sponsor for one year. This extension also applies to their children if they were under the husband's visa at the time of his death or divorce.

Requirements:

•  Proof of death or divorce
•  Proof of accommodation
•  Proof of financial independence
•  Emirates ID
•  Medical fitness certificate

This type of visa can only be renewed once.

UAE Residence Visa Expiry Grace Period

After your UAE Residence Visa expires, you are granted a 30-day grace period to renew or leave the country. During this period, you won't be fined for overstaying. However, if you don't renew or exit the UAE by the end of the grace period, you will face overstay penalties.

UAE Residence Visa Overstay Fees

If you remain in the UAE after your residence visa has expired and the grace period has passed, you will incur overstay fees:

•  First six months (180 days): AED 25 per day
•  Second 6 months (180 days): AED 50 per day
•  Beyond one year: AED 100 per day

Overstaying beyond the grace period can lead to significant fines, so renewing or leaving the country in time is crucial.

What Happens If You Leave the UAE for More Than 6 Months?

If you hold a UAE Residence Visa and leave the country for more than six consecutive months, your visa will become invalid, and you will need to reapply for a new residence visa to re-enter the UAE.

Exceptions to the 6-Month Rule:

• Golden Visa holders and their family members.
• Government employees living abroad for medical treatment or assignments.
• Investors with approved residence permits.
• Spouses of Emirati citizens, sponsored by their husbands.
• Students enrolled abroad under UAE sponsorship.
• Domestic workers accompany their employers overseas.

If you fall into one of these categories, you can retain your UAE residence status despite extended periods outside the country.

Key Takeaways

• The UAE Entry Permit is temporary and allows foreigners to enter the UAE. Once in the country, your sponsor applies for the UAE Residence Visa.
• The UAE Residence Visa allows long-term stay and is renewable, with durations of 1 to 3 years (or up to 10 years for certain categories like investors).
• You have a 30-day grace period to renew your visa after it expires, but overstay fines are applied beyond that period.
• Divorced women and widows can stay in the UAE without a sponsor for one year after their husband's death or divorce.
• If you leave the UAE for over six months, your residence visa will expire unless you belong to certain exempt categories like Golden Visa holders.

If you plan to live, work, or invest in the UAE, securing a UAE Residence Visa is the key to accessing a host of benefits, including financial services, healthcare, and family sponsorship. Ensure you stay compliant with UAE visa regulations and make timely renewals to avoid 

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