There are a number of people around the world who are interested in settling Dubai which is known for its high rise towers, lavish malls, luxury lifestyle and attractive business environments. If you have long term plans to stay in Dubai, there are various pathways to get the UAE residence visa.
This guide by Dubai Tour Visa, your one-stop shop for Dubai Visa Services, simplifies the UAE residence visa process, outlining the various pathways to residency based on your goals: employment, property ownership, or business establishment.
Table of Contents
Understanding the UAE Residence Visa
With a UAE Residence Visa, you can lawfully reside and work in the United Arab Emirates. It’s sponsored by an employer, university, family member, or yourself (under specific circumstances). The visa type determines its validity period, renewal options, and sponsorship requirements.
Key Points to Remember –
- No Criminal Record – It is a condition of all applications for UAE residency visas to have a clean criminal background check. It is essential to receive a police clearance certificate from your nation where you reside well in advance to ensure a seamless application procedure. This document, translated into Arabic by a UAE-approved translator, verifies that you have no criminal convictions.
- Medical Fitness Test – It is mandatory to undergo a medical fitness exam administered by UAE-approved healthcare facilities. The test involves a general health screening, including blood tests, X-rays, and sometimes vaccinations.
- Emirates ID – Upon visa clearance, you will be given an Emirates ID, which is your official UAE identifying document. This card has several functions which includes serving as your residency permit, health insurance card, and bank card (depending on your bank).
Pathways to Residency in Dubai
Dubai offers diverse visa options to suit your aspirations. Let’s explore the three main categories –
1. Residence by Occupation in Dubai
This is the most common path for professionals seeking employment in Dubai.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Employer Sponsorship – The application procedure is started by your employer, who also serves as your visa sponsor. They’ll need valid business licenses and work permits.
- Employment Contract – A valid employment contract outlining your position, salary, and benefits is essential.
- Educational Qualifications – Documents proving your educational qualifications relevant to the offered position might be required.
Popular Work Visas
- Standard Work Visa – Ideal for most employees in government and private sectors. It’s typically valid for two or three years and is renewable.
- Green Visa – A five-year renewable visa allowing freelance professionals and skilled workers with specific qualifications to self-sponsor their residency.
2. Residence via Purchase of Property in Dubai
Investing in Dubai’s booming property market can grant you residency.
Here’s how –
- Minimum Investment – Depending on the emirate, different minimum property values are required to obtain a residency visa. In Dubai, it’s currently AED 1 million (approximately USD 272,250).
- Type of Property – The property must be freehold, allowing foreign ownership.
- Proof of Purchase – It is necessary to have a sale deed or a letter of confirmation from the Dubai Land Department.
Benefits
- Long-term residency visas (typically three years) with the possibility of renewal.
- Potential rental income from your property.
3. Residence via Company Registration in the City
Entrepreneurs and investors can establish a business in Dubai and obtain residency visas. Here’s a basic overview –
- Company Setup – Choose your business activity and establish business with the Department of Economic Development (DED), and secure the necessary permits.
- Minimum Investment – The minimum investment required for company registration varies depending on the business activity.
- Visa Type – Business visas are typically issued for three years and are renewable upon meeting specific criteria.
Benefits
- Sponsor yourself and your employees for residency.
- 100% foreign ownership in specific business activities within designated free zones.
The UAE Residence Visa Process
Although the steps involved in obtaining a UAE residence visa process can vary based on your particular situation and most applicants must follow certain broad guidelines –
Step 1: Secure Employment or Sponsorship
The first step toward obtaining a UAE residency visa is to secure employment or any sponsorship. This can be accomplished via a nearby business, a family member, or a university if you are a student. The sponsoring entity will initiate the visa application procedure on your behalf.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Once your sponsorship is in place, you’ll need to present the paperwork you need to apply for a residence visa in the UAE. This usually requires a current passport, passport-size photos, documentation of your educational background, and health insurance. The type of Dubai visa you’re applying for and your place of origin may need you to submit additional documentation.
Step 3: Submit the Application
The sponsoring organization will submit your application for UAE residence visa application to the appropriate authorities after they have received all the necessary paperwork. This can be done either online or through a reputed Dubai visa service provider like Dubai Tour Visa.
Step 4: Undergo Medical Examination
As a requirement for the UAE residency visa application procedure, you will be required to undergo a medical examination to confirm that you meet the health standards. This often includes a basic health check-up and screening for communicable diseases.
Step 5: Receive Visa Approval
Once your UAE residence visa application is processed and approved, you’ll receive your UAE visa. This can take anything from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of your case and the authority’s processing schedule.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a UAE residence visa might be complicated, but it can go smoothly with the correct help and advice. By contacting a reputed visa agency like Dubai Tour Visa, you can easily handle the UAE resident visa process and ensure a seamless transition to your new life in the United Arab Emirates. people around the world who are interested in settling Dubai which is known for its high rise towers, lavish malls, luxury lifestyle and attractive business environments. If you have long term plans to stay in Dubai, there are various pathways to get the UAE residence visa.
Also Read: The Best Time to Visit Dubai: Weather, Temperature, & Seasonal Guide
