Visa Renewal UAE: Costs, Requirements, Step by Step Process (2025)

There is a large expat community in Dubai, which makes the visa an important topic for anyone living or working here. The system can sometimes seem overwhelming, so to know that your visa status is always wise and be clear to take action.
If you are planning on staying in Dubai for more than a short stay, you will need to go through the visa process. This applies if you start an entrepreneurial business, a company that works for a company or a sponsor that organizes a visa for family members or houseworkers. How the system works, the basics will help you avoid problems and make your life easier.
Many people choose to work with visa experts to handle the process. A business consultant like DBS Group can guide you through steps, answer your questions and save you time. With professional help, you can continue with security and focus on your work or personal plans in Dubai.
How to Renew Different Types of UAE Visas
It is important to renew your UAE visa to live legally and avoid penalties. Each type of visa has its own steps and rules. Here's a simple guide to renew a variety of UAE visa:
Tourist and Visit Visa Renewal
Tourist and visitor visas are usually not renewed. Visitors who want to stay for a long time will require new visas or extensions. You can expand the tourist visa twice, each time for 30 days, without leaving the country.
Residence Visa Renewal
Depending on the type, a residence visa should be renewed every 1, 2 or 3 years. Stages include:
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Medical examination: blood samples and x-rays of the chest.
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Submit documents: passport, photo, current visa, Emirates ID, employer sponsorship, and renewal fee.
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Emirates ID Renewal: Do it with a visa renewal.
Employment Visa Renewal
Employment visa renewal is sponsored by the employer and is similar to residency visa renewal. Steps include:
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Updated contract: Required if job details change.
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Proof of employment: Confirmation of employment from the employer.
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Health insurance: Must be valid for renewal.
Student visa renewal
For students:
Proof of registration: Letter from the school showing that fees have been paid.
Sponsorship documents: Parent or relative sponsor must have a valid visa and Emirates ID.
Investor/Partner Visa Renewal
Investors or partners must have:
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Proof of investment: Trade license or financial papers.
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No Objection Certificate: From partners if required.
Dependent Visa Renewal
For family members:
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Sponsor Visa Validity: Sponsorβs visa and Emirates ID must be current.
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Proof of relationship: Marriage or birth certificates, duly certified.
Long-Term Visa (Golden Visa) Renewal
For long-term visas like Golden Visa:
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Conditions: Keep the same investment, employment or property rules.
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Submit documents: Financial records, proof of employment, or property papers.
Medical and Special Visas
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Medical Visa: Provide new medical reports.
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Special Visa: Provide documents stating the reason for the visa extension.
Step-by-Step Visa Renewal Process
Start Renewal
Start one month before your visa renewal expires. Log in to the ICP or GDRFA online portal to start the process.
Renew Emirates ID
Submit your application to renew your Emirates ID along with your visa.
Undergo a Medical Test
Schedule your medical check-up. This includes simple tests such as blood work and chest X-ray.
Submit Documents
Provide or upload all required documents through the portal or at the service centers.
Get an Updated Visa And ID
Upon approval, your new visa will be stamped in your passport, and your updated Emirates ID will be issued.
Pay Fees
Pay the visa renewal fee. Additional fees for fines or expedited service may apply if necessary.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Dubai Visa?
The total cost of renewing a visa comes from various fees.
For an employment visa, the fees include:
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Government fee: AED 1,263.53
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PRO fee for visa: AED 1,575
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PRO fee for medical and Emirates ID: AED 1,050
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Insurance fee for limited skills: AED 420 β AED 5,120
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Government fee for medical and Emirates ID: AED 1,130
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Labor fee: AED 300 - AED 5,000 (depending on the company type)
For a partner or investor visa, the fees include:
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Medical typing fee: AED 857.50
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PRO fee: AED 2,625
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Emirates ID typing fee: AED 371.50
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Residence visa typing fee: AED 925.65
What To Do If Your UAE Visa Renewal Is Denied?
This can be heavy to be denied your visa renewal, but remain calm and take one step at once. To understand the exact cause of denial, read the notice or letter received from the immigration department. There are some common reasons:
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Missing or incomplete documents.
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Not meeting the required eligibility standards.
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Medical screening concerns.
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Lack of sufficient financial evidence.
If you feel that rejection was unfair or due to an error, you can submit an appeal. Another option is to re-apply for UAE visa renewal. Make sure your new application is accurate, complete and supported with all the necessary papers.
If you are unsure of the next stages or require help to submit an appeal, it is best to get support from a business consultant expert like DBS Group.
Start Your Visa Renewal Journey With DBS Group
At DBS Business Setup Consultancy Group, we provide professional guidance and full support in all stages of the visa renewal process. From completing documents to online submissions and solving unexpected problems, our professional team ensures that your renewal is smooth and stress free.