Getting a residence visa in Dubai is one of the most important steps when you move to the UAE.
Whether you are coming to work, start a business, relocate with your family, or obtain a freelance visa, the process can seem complex at first. I also felt lost at the beginning with the medical test, biometrics, Emirates ID, and e‑visas.
In this 2025 guide, I explain the real process, step by step, as if I were guiding you in person:
- Entry permit
- Medical test
- Biometrics
- Emirates ID
- Visa stamping (100% digital)
- Timelines, costs & practical tips
1. Who Can Get a Residence Visa in Dubai?
You can obtain a UAE residence visa through:
- An employer
- Your own company (investor visa)
- A free zone (freelance visa)
- Your spouse (family sponsorship)
- Golden Visa (10‑year visa)
- Student visa
A residence visa gives access to:
- Emirates ID
- Opening a bank account
- Renting a home
- Healthcare & insurance
- Obtaining a driving license
2. Documents You Need (2025)
Main documents:
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Entry permit (issued by sponsor)
- Insurance (mandatory)
- Contract / trade license (depending on visa type)
For family visas:
- Marriage certificate (attested)
- Birth certificate for children
3. Step 1 – Entry Permit (E-Visa)
This is the official approval allowing you to start the visa process.
Issued by:
- Employer
- Free zone
- PRO
- Visa consultant
Processing time:
- 24h to 5 days
You receive it by email as a PDF.
4. Step 2 – Medical Test (Mandatory)
Every resident must undergo a standard medical test:
- Blood test
- Chest X‑ray
Locations:
- Government medical centers
- SEHA clinics
- VIP fast-track options
Processing time:
- 1–2 days
Cost:
- Standard: 350–600 AED
- VIP: 700–1,200 AED
5. Step 3 – Biometrics for Emirates ID
After the medical test, you must go to an ICP center for biometrics:
- Fingerprints
- Photo
- Identity verification
Required for:
- First-time visa holders
- Visa renewal (sometimes not required)
Processing time:
- 5–10 minutes at the center
6. Step 4 – Emirates ID Application
Your Emirates ID is the official identity document in the UAE.
Validity:
- Linked to visa (2 or 3 years generally)
Processing time:
- 4–10 working days
Digital ID:
- Available immediately through the UAE ICP app
7. Step 5 – Visa Stamping (Now Digital)
Since 2023, the UAE no longer places physical stickers in passports.
Visa stamping is now:
- 100% digital
- Sent as a PDF
- Accessible in the ICP app
Processing time:
- 2–7 working days
8. Total Processing Time (Realistic 2025 Timeline)
- Entry permit: 1–5 days
- Medical test: 1 day
- Biometrics: same day
- Visa stamping: 2–7 days
- Emirates ID: 4–10 days
Total: 7 to 15 days depending on your sponsor.
9. Costs (2025 Averages)
Costs depend on visa type:
Employment visa:
- 3,000–6,000 AED (paid by employer)
Investor / partner visa:
- 3,500–7,500 AED
Freelance visa:
- 7,500–14,000 AED
Family visa:
- 2,500–5,000 AED per person
Golden Visa:
- 9,000–24,000 AED (depending on category)
10. Tips to Avoid Delays (From Real Experience)
- Make sure your passport doesn’t expire soon.
- Always check your name spelling (very important).
- Go early for the medical test to avoid queues.
- Install the UAE ICP app immediately.
- Keep all PDFs saved (entry permit, stamping, EID application).
Conclusion
Getting a residence visa in Dubai is a structured and efficient process.
With a reliable sponsor, the right documents, and a bit of organization, your visa can be finalized in just one to two weeks.
Find visa consultants, PRO services, business setup experts, and relocation advisors on The Expat Services Directory your trusted partner for moving to Dubai.
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