UAE Residence Visa: Costs, Types, Documents, How to Get & Requirements

Living and working in the UAE means understanding how the residency visa system works. We talk about how important it is for entrepreneurs, and families who make the UAE their home to the police to get your visa sorted. Apply for your visa if you are there, and you can go through the process and make sure you are up to date.
UAE is a great place to live because of its growing economy, free lifestyle and quality of life. Whether you start a business, take new jobs or bring your family, a residential visa gives you access to government, schools and other important services.
At DBS, we always recommend working with experts who are in and out of the system. Our team can help you in all tasks, guide through regulations and ensure that you renew your visa on time. This means that you can focus on your work or family without worrying about the visa.
If you are thinking about the UAE, a residency visa is what a person needs to enjoy everything it has to offer. Whether you are working here, working or joining a family, DBS can help you in every way. You can easily process and start living your UAE dreams.
Sounds good? Let's talk straight.
What Is A UAE Residence Visa?
A UAE Residence Visa is an official permit that allows people from other countries to reside in the UAE for a specific period of time. Unlike some countries that offer βpermanent residency,β the UAE doesnβt have that option. But with a residency visa, you can stay for two, five, or ten years and renew it as needed. Many families have lived here for years and built strong businesses.
In short, a UAE residential visa is your ticket to enjoy life instead of luxury. With the right help and paperwork you can get a visa without any problems. Let's look at what you need to start. Letβs take a look at what you need to get started.
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Get Expert Help NowBenefits of Having a UAE/Dubai Residence Visa
There are many benefits to having a UAE Residence Visa. Here are some of the main ones:
Easy Bank Account Opening: To open a corporate bank account, you need an Emirates ID linked to your visa. With a residency visa, you can easily open a business bank account.
Financial Assistance: You can apply for personal, car and home loans without any legal worries.
Get a UAE driving license: You can convert your existing license or take driving lessons and tests. A residency visa is required for both.
Healthcare and education: You have access to high quality healthcare services, and your children can study in great schools.
Sponsor your family and staff: You can bring your spouse, parents and children to the UAE if you meet certain salary requirements. You can also sponsor domestic helpers such as drivers and maids.
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How to Get a UAE Residency Visa by Buying Property
What you need. Foreigners can get a UAE residency visa by buying a property worth at least AED750,000, which is around $204,000.
You can buy a house or commercial property in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Both ready-made houses and properties under construction are allowed.
If you want to use a mortgage, you can still get a 2-year visa. But you will have to pay at least 50% of the property price in advance.
The duration of the visa depends on how much you invest:
If the property is worth AED750,000 or more, a 2-year visa, around $204,000;
If the property is worth AED2,000,000 or more, a 10-year visa, around $544,500.
You can add family members. You can also include your immediate family on your visa. This means your husband or wife and your children.
For a 2-year visa, you can add children under the age of 18. For a visa of 10 years, you can add unmarried sons under 25 and unmarried daughters of all ages.
Documents Required for UAE Residence Visa
Here is a list of important documents required to apply for your UAE residence visa:
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Completed UAE visa application form
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Medical fitness certificate
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Valid UAE health insurance
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Original passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
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Passport-sized photos
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Company registration papers (if applying as a company investor)
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Proof of property ownership (if applying as a property investor)
The documents you need may need to vary depending on the type of visa by you and your status.
Recommended to Read: E-Trader License in Dubai: How to Get, Costs, Permitted Activities
Who Can Apply Residence Visa?
To be eligible for this visa, you must:
- Be 55 years of age or younger
- Have a job offer from an approved employer in a Green List Tier 1 in-demand role, or be already employed
- Be in good health
- Be of good character
- If you include your spouse and dependent children, have a genuine relationship with them
Speak and understand English
Different Types of UAE Residence Visa
There are different types of residence visas in the UAE depending on why you want to stay. Here are the common types:
1. Employment Visa
This is the most common visa. It is for people who get a job with a UAE company. The employer will usually assist with the visa process. The cost of a 2-year employment visa in Dubai is usually between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000. Check with DBS for the exact price.
2. Investor Visa
Investor visa is for those who invest a good amount in the United Arab Emirates. It lasts up to 10 years compared to other visas, and if you qualify, you do not need a sponsor.
3. Family Visa
Family visa allows UAE residents or citizens to bring their immediate family members to live with them.
4. Student Visa
This visa is for students studying at a school or university in the UAE. The school or university will be the sponsor.
5. Retirement Visa
For people aged 55 and above who have a stable monthly income (around AED 20,000 or more) and want to retire in the UAE. A UAE resident child can also sponsor their parents.
6. Business Visa
This visa allows foreign business owners to work, live and run their business in the UAE.
7. Green Visa
This is a new 5-year visa for skilled workers, freelancers and entrepreneurs. You can sponsor yourself without the need for an employer.
8. Golden Visa
A long-term visa (5 or 10 years) for wealthy investors, entrepreneurs and experts in specific fields.
Also Read: Freelance Visa in Dubai: How to Apply, Costs, Eligibility, Requirements
Start Your Visa Renewal with DBS
At DBS, we make your visa easy to renew. Our team is here to help you solve any problem from paperwork and online forms so you can meet the road. We are committed to giving you a smooth, stress-free experience.
To simplify your UAE residential visa renewal contact DBS today and stay in UAE without any concern.
Frequently Asked Questions - People also ask
Q1. Can I Travel Outside the UAE While My Residency Visa Is Being Processed?
Yes, you can travel outside the UAE while your residency visa is being processed. However, you must have a valid exit permit. Once DBS has completed this, you can return using a visit visa or your new residency visa.
Q2. How Long Does It Take to Process a UAE Residency Visa?
It usually takes a few days to a few weeks to procedure a residency visa in the UAE. This can range depending on the number of applications being processed and the documents required.
Q3. How Do I Apply For a Dubai Free Zone Visa?
To apply, first select the free zone where you want to set up your company. You will need a copy of your passport and a business plan. Submit this to the Free Zone Authority. Once approved, the visa process is usually quick.
Q4. Can I Get Permanent Residency in Dubai?
Dubai does not offer traditional permanent residency. Instead, it offers long-term residency visas for 5 to 10 years. These are mainly issued to investors and highly skilled professionals.
Q5. Can I Sponsor My Family With a Residency Visa?
Yes, if you have a valid residency visa, you can also sponsor your spouse, children, and parents. To do so, you must meet certain income and financial requirements.