UAE residence visas grant foreigners the opportunity to reside in the United Arab Emirates for longer periods. Unlike short-term visas, such as tourist visas, residence visas offer durations ranging from 2 to 3 years, with the possibility of renewal for up to 10 years.

Our guide sheds light on the significance of obtaining a UAE residence visa and provides invaluable insights into the visa renewal process, enabling you to make the most of your time in this remarkable nation.

With a UAE residence visa, you have the freedom to choose any Emirate for your new home. Rent an apartment and settle in any location within the UAE without restrictions. Keep in mind, your driver’s license aligns with the Emirate of visa issuance. While Dubai offers exceptional entertainment and infrastructure, residency costs may be higher in this sought-after Emirate.

Getting a UAE residence visa is straightforward, especially if you plan to establish a mainland company. Here’s the process:

1. Register your company.
2. Obtain an establishment card.
3. Receive your entry permit.
4. Apply for an Emirates ID.
5. Complete the required medical tests.
6. Stamp your passport with the UAE visa.

An advantage of the UAE visa process is that most of it can be completed from your home country. Only the medical exams and passport stamping need to be done in the UAE, typically taking around five business days. Remember to plan accordingly as you won’t be able to leave the country until the process is complete.

The cost of becoming a UAE resident varies depending on your visa type and business location. Lower visa fees apply to the northern Emirates like Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Ajman. Dubai has slightly higher fees due to business registration costs and mandatory health insurance coverage.

Being one of the 8.84 million expats in the UAE offers advantages. You can visit the country without constantly applying for tourist visas, especially if your country isn’t immediately eligible. It’s also easier to open a bank account in Dubai, benefiting investors and corporations expanding their operations to the UAE.

Maintaining your residence visa is simple. Just ensure you enter the UAE once every six months. Failure to meet this requirement may necessitate reapplication for a visa.

Renewing your visa is a simpler process than obtaining the original visa. Around 1-2 weeks before your visa expires, undergo a medical checkup at a screening center. After taking the required tests, send the medical report and passport to the immigration office. They will stamp your passport, allowing you to stay in the UAE for another period.

To stay longer in the UAE, you can apply for a 5-year or 10-year visa under a new government initiative. Two categories qualify for these longer-term visas: high-value investors and talented researchers or professionals in fields like art, medicine, or science. Meeting the criteria allows you to extend your stay before renewing your visa.

Canceling a visa in the UAE is a straightforward process. To cancel your visa while staying in the UAE, send your passport to the issuing authority. The visa will be canceled within several days to a few weeks.

If canceling your visa while outside the UAE, you must have resided outside the country for more than six months. You may need to send your passport to the UAE, or hire a company for assistance.

Cancellation methods vary based on the type of visa and the issuing authority. Options include using online services, visiting a typing center, or using the mobile app. Follow the specific instructions for each method to complete the visa cancellation process.

To cancel a UAE residence visa, you will need the following documents:

1. Signed copy of the cancellation paper
2. Labour card and Emirates ID
3. Original passport
4. Clearance document from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation

Having these documents ready will ensure a smooth process for canceling your UAE visa.

If you’re ready to make the United Arab Emirates your home, obtaining a residence visa is within your reach. Our team is here to guide you through the process and turn your dreams of becoming a UAE resident into a reality. Contact us today!