Getting your residence visa is the first and most important step to live and work in Dubai legally. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, rent a home, or even get a mobile plan. The process may seem complex at first, but once you understand the steps, it becomes straightforward.
This 2025 guide breaks down the entire visa process for employees, investors, freelancers, and families.
1. Understanding the UAE Residence Visa
A residence visa allows you to live in the UAE for 2–10 years, depending on the type. It is linked to your Emirates ID, which you’ll use for almost every transaction in the country.
1.1 Types of Residence Visas
– Employment Visa – Sponsored by your company.
– Investor/Partner Visa – For entrepreneurs and shareholders in UAE Free Zones or mainland companies.
– Freelancer Visa – For self-employed professionals.
– Family Visa – For dependents of a resident sponsor.
– Golden Visa – 10-year renewable visa for investors, skilled professionals, or property owners.
2. Key Documents Required
Prepare the following documents before applying:
– Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
– Passport-size photos (white background).
– Entry permit (if applicable).
– Medical fitness test results.
– Emirates ID application form.
– Tenancy contract (Ejari) and salary certificate.
– Attested marriage or birth certificates (for family sponsorship).
Tip: All foreign documents must be *attested* by the UAE embassy in your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
3. The Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Entry Permit
If you’re outside the UAE, your sponsor (employer or yourself) must first apply for an **entry permit** through ICP or the GDRFA portal.
Step 2 – Medical Test
After entering the UAE, take a **medical fitness test** at an approved clinic. It includes a blood test and chest X-ray.
Step 3 – Emirates ID Biometrics
Provide your fingerprints and a facial scan for your **Emirates ID**.
Step 4 – Visa Stamping
Your passport is submitted for **visa stamping** (physical or digital). You’ll receive your Emirates ID shortly after.
Processing time: 1–3 weeks
Average cost: 2 000–4 000 AED depending on type
4. Sponsoring Your Family
Residents earning a minimum salary (usually AED 4 000–10 000) can sponsor their spouse, children, or parents.
Documents Needed for Family Sponsorship
– Attested marriage/birth certificates.
– Proof of accommodation (Ejari).
– Sponsor’s Emirates ID and labor contract.
– Recent bank statements.
Children’s visas are usually valid for the same duration as the sponsor’s visa.
5. Renewing or Cancelling Your Visa
Renewal
Start renewal 30 days before expiry.
Medical test and Emirates ID update are required again.
Grace period: 30 days after expiry to renew or exit the UAE.
Cancellation
Your sponsor or company must cancel your visa officially before you can change jobs or leave permanently.
6. Special Case: The Golden Visa
The Golden Visa allows long-term residence (10 years) without a local sponsor.
Eligibility
– Investors with property worth AED 2M+
– Entrepreneurs and startup founders
– Highly skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, researchers)
– Outstanding students and graduates
Benefits
– 10-year renewable visa
– No need for employer sponsorship
– Family members included
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Submitting non-attested documents.
– Forgetting medical test or Emirates ID step.
– Overstaying after visa cancellation.
– Using unlicensed agents — always go through official portals (GDRFA, ICP).
8. Costs Breakdown (2025)
| Visa Type | Cost (AED) | Validity |
|————|————|———-|
| Employment | 2 000–3 500 | 2 years |
| Investor/Partner | 3 500–5 000 | 3 years |
| Freelancer | 7 000–9 000 | 2 years |
| Family | 2 000–4 000 | 2 years |
| Golden Visa | 9 000–12 000 | 10 years |
Conclusion
Getting a residence visa in Dubai is a straightforward process when you know the steps. Once completed, your Emirates ID opens the door to the best of Dubai — from banking to healthcare to business opportunities.
Call to Action
Need professional help with your visa application or family sponsorship?
Find trusted relocation agents and legal consultants on **The Expat Services Directory** — your reliable guide for expat life in Dubai.
Read also: The Real Cost of Living in Dubai (2025 Update)
Next: Moving to Dubai with Family: What You Need to Know
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