Do you plan to live, work, or invest in the UAE? A UAE residence visa is essential for expatriates who want to stay in the country long-term. Whether you’re moving for employment, business, or family reasons, obtaining a residence visa is a crucial step.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of getting a UAE residence visa, including the types of visas available, required documents, application steps, and costs involved.
What is a Residence Visa in the UAE?
A UAE residence visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the UAE legally. It is issued for a period of 1 to 10 years, depending on the visa type, and must be sponsored by an employer, a family member, or through property or business ownership.
Holding a UAE residence visa provides various benefits, including access to banking services, healthcare, and driving licenses.
Types of UAE Residence Visas
The UAE offers different types of residence visas based on the applicant’s purpose for staying in the country:
- Employment Visa – Issued to individuals working for a UAE-based company or government entity.
- Investor/Partner Visa – For entrepreneurs and business owners investing in the UAE.
- Family Visa – Allows residents to sponsor their spouse, children, and parents.
- Golden Visa – A long-term visa (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and outstanding students.
- Property Owner Visa – Available for individuals who own property worth AED 750,000 or more.
Retirement Visa – For retirees aged 55 and above who meet the financial requirements.
What Documents are Required for a UAE Residence Visa?
To apply for a UAE residence visa, you need the following documents:
- A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity)
- A passport-sized photograph (as per UAE visa guidelines)
- A copy of the entry permit or tourist visa (if applicable)
- A sponsorship letter from an employer, family member, or business (depending on the visa type)
- A medical fitness test report from a UAE-approved medical center
- Emirates ID application receipt
- Health insurance policy (mandatory for most visa categories)
- Tenancy contract or proof of accommodation
Additional documents may be required based on the visa category, such as proof of investment for business visas or property ownership documents for property visas.
How to Apply for a UAE Residence Visa?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a UAE residence visa:
- Obtain an Entry Permit – Your sponsor (employer, family, or business entity) applies for an entry permit from GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).
- Undergo a Medical Test – Complete a medical fitness test at a UAE-approved health center.
- Apply for Emirates ID – Submit an Emirates ID application at an ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security) center.
- Obtain Health Insurance – Secure a health insurance policy as per UAE regulations.
- Visa Stamping – Submit your passport to the GDRFA for visa stamping, completing the process.
The processing time varies but typically takes a few days to a few weeks.
Benefits of Getting a UAE Residence Visa
Holding a UAE residence visa comes with multiple advantages:
- Legal stay and employment in the UAE
- Access to UAE banking and financial services
- Ability to rent or buy property in the UAE
- Sponsor family members for residency
- Access to high-quality healthcare and education
- Easy international travel and visa-free entry to some countries
What is the Cost of a UAE Residence Visa?
- The application fees for a UAE residency visa in 2025 could be around AED100. The cost of a UAE residence visa is determined by numerous factors, including the applicant’s location, the length of their desired stay, insurance coverage for family members, and so on. The charge for a two-year UAE Residence Visa is AED 3,990.
- Based on these considerations, the following is an estimated list of Dubai residency visa expenses.
- The cost of a UAE residency visa is determined by its tenure. The cheapest residency visa in the UAE costs approximately AED 3,990*.
- A two-year resident visa in Dubai costs approximately AED 3,500 without medical insurance and AED 4,200 with medical insurance.
- 3 year residency visa Dubai candidates without insurance will pay around AED 3700, while those with insurance would pay AED 5472. (Expired)
- The cost of an investment visa – Golden Visa (10 years) is typically around AED 5,000*, which includes application processing, medical test fees, and typing center charges.
- The retirement visa costs around AED 3,000* for application processing, medical test fees, and typing center charges.
Remember that these are estimates, and actual expenses may vary. It is always preferable to verify with the official UAE authorities or one of our specialists at unicorn global solutions Business Setup to get the most up-to-date pricing structure for your specific case.
UAE Residence Visa Renewal Fees 2025
If your UAE residence visa is eligible for renewal, it’s important to initiate the process before it expires to avoid penalties. Visit visas and temporary work permits cannot be renewed.
UAE Residence Visa Renewal Process
The renewal process generally follows these steps:
- Initiate the Renewal Process
- You or your sponsor (except for Green Visa holders) must apply for renewal through the relevant UAE authorities or a typing center.
- Prepare the Required Documents
- Valid passport (with at least six months’ validity)
- Existing Emirates ID
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of income or employment
- Pay the Renewal Fees
- Application fee (approx. AED 100 or USD 27)
- Issuance fee
- Typing center charges
- Medical Test (If Required)
- Some visa categories require a medical fitness test at an approved UAE medical center.
- Renew Your Emirates ID
- Submit an Emirates ID renewal application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP).
- Obtain Your Renewed Visa & Emirates ID
- Once your application is approved, you will receive your renewed residence visa and new Emirates ID.
UAE Residence Visa Renewal Fees in 2025
The total cost for UAE residence visa renewal in 2025 is estimated to be between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000, depending on several factors:
- Application fee which is typically around AED 100 (approx. USD 27)
- Issuance fee
- Typing centre fees
- Emirates ID renewal fee
- Medical insurance
- Knowledge and Innovation Dirham
Difference Between the UAE Entry Permit and Residence Visa
You can enter the UAE for a specific reason if you have a UAE entry permit. Most visa classes have a short validity period of one month. You are not permitted to live or work in the United Arab Emirates with an entrance permit. It is intended for things like completing your application for a resident visa, going to events, doing temporary jobs, or receiving medical care.
On the other hand, you can live and work in the UAE for a long time if you have a UAE residence visa. Usually, residence permits are valid for two to ten years. Depending on the type of visa, you may lawfully live, work, and sponsor family members.
While residency visas can be renewed after fulfilling certain conditions and paying the related fees, entry permits are typically not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Expense Approximate Amount (AED)
Property Purchase (Minimum Value) 750,000+
Residency Visa Application 4,000 – 7,000+
Title Deed Registration 4% of Property Value
Emirates ID Issuance 300 – 500 (per year)
Yes, you can live in Dubai permanently by obtaining a residence permit (visa). There are several ways to secure residency in the UAE:
Types of UAE Residency Visas
- Employment Visa: The most common residency option, sponsored by your UAE employer.
- Investment Visa: Obtain a 10-year residency visa by purchasing real estate in the UAE.
- Family Visa: Sponsored by a spouse, parent, or legal guardian.
- Freelance Visa: Available for self-employed professionals in various industries.
- Business Visa: Granted to entrepreneurs setting up a business in the UAE.
- Student Visa: Issued to students enrolled in UAE universities.
UAE Residency Visa Details
- The Golden Visa offers up to 10 years of residency with renewal options.
- Residency remains valid even if you live outside the UAE.
- For investment-based residency, you must hold the investment for at least three years.
Other Requirements for Residency
To apply for permanent residency in the UAE, you may need:
- Recent passport-size photo
- Copy of passport
- Emirates ID application receipt
- Lease contract or proof of residence
- Entry permit
- Birth certificate (for dependents)
- Medical insurance or health card
For a hassle-free residency application, contact Unicorn Global Solutions today!
UAE Residency Visa Through Real Estate Investment
Investing in real estate worth AED 750,000 or more allows you to obtain a 2-year UAE residence visa. Key conditions include:
- Minimum Investment: The property value must be AED 750,000 or more.
- Mortgage Option: You can finance the purchase, but at least 50% of the property value must be paid upfront.
- Visa Duration: The residency visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed.
For expert assistance in securing your UAE real estate investment visa, contact Unicorn Global Solutions today!
Under current UAE legislation, there are five primary ways to acquire citizenship:
- By Descent – Individuals born to Emirati parents automatically receive UAE nationality.
- By Investment – High-net-worth individuals can obtain citizenship by making significant investments in the UAE.
- By Marriage – Foreigners married to UAE nationals may apply for citizenship after meeting specific residency and legal requirements.
- By Naturalization – Long-term residents who have lived in the UAE for several years may be eligible for citizenship under specific conditions.
- By Outstanding Services – Individuals with exceptional contributions in fields like science, medicine, arts, or sports may be granted citizenship.
For expert guidance on UAE citizenship and residency options, contact Unicorn Global Solutions today!
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa offers numerous advantages to its holders:
- Residency: Live in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor.
- Family Sponsorship: Bring your family to live with you in the UAE.
- Business Ownership: Own and operate a business in the UAE.
- Travel: Enjoy minimal restrictions on travel in and out of the UAE.
- Healthcare and Education: Access top-tier healthcare and education facilities.
Eligibility Criteria for the UAE Golden Visa
To be eligible for the Golden Visa, individuals must meet specific criteria:
- Investors: Must invest in public investments or own property worth at least AED 2 million.
- Entrepreneurs: Must run an economic project valued at AED 500,000.
- Scientists: Must have a letter of recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists.
- Doctors: Must have an approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
- Creative Professionals: Must have an approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts.
- Students: Must have graduated from an accredited university with a GPA of 3.8 or higher.
The Golden Visa program was introduced to attract skilled professionals and affluent individuals to the UAE, aiming to foster business growth and success within the country.
Conclusion
Obtaining a UAE Residence Visa is a crucial step for those looking to live, work, or do business in the UAE. With its strong economy and world-class infrastructure, the UAE offers excellent opportunities for expatriates. Unicorn Global Solutions ensures a smooth and hassle-free visa application process, guiding you every step of the way.
For more details Text us on whatsApp or call us today .
