Asia – UAE Visa – Residence Visa

1. How do I apply for a UAE visa?


If you are planning to visit the UAE, you will need to apply for a visa before your trip. The process of applying for a UAE visa can vary depending on your nationality and purpose of visit. Here is a general overview of the steps you need to follow:

1. Check if you need a visa: Citizens of some countries do not require a visa to enter the UAE, while others can obtain a visa upon arrival. Check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country to see if you require a visa.

2. Choose the right type of visa: The UAE offers different types of visas for different purposes such as tourism, business, transit, or study. Make sure you choose the correct type based on your purpose of visit.

3. Find an authorized sponsor: Most visitors to the UAE require a local sponsor, such as a hotel, travel agency or relative who is already resident in the country. They will act as your guarantor and apply for your visa on your behalf.

4. Gather required documents: The documents needed may vary depending on your nationality and type of visa, but commonly include:
– Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
– Completed application form
– Passport-sized photo
– Proof of accommodation in the UAE (e.g. hotel reservation)
– Proof of financial means (e.g.bank statements)
– Travel itinerary
– Sponsor’s documents (e.g.sponsorship letter)

5. Apply for the visa: Once you have all necessary documents, submit them to an authorized typing center or through an online application website such as eVisa or Dubai Visa Processing Centre.

6. Pay the fees: You will need to pay a fee for processing your application which varies based on the type of visa and duration of stay.

7.Receive your visa: After submitting your application and paying the fees, you will receive an electronic copy or physical copy (depending on how you applied) of your approved visa.

8. Enter the UAE: Once you have your visa, make sure to check the entry and exit requirements for the UAE and carry all necessary documents with you when you travel.

It is recommended to apply for your UAE visa at least a month before your planned trip to allow enough time for processing. You can check the status of your application on the website where you applied, or through the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) website.

2. What types of visas are available for the UAE?


There are several types of visas available for the UAE, depending on the purpose of travel and length of stay:

1. Tourist Visa: This is a short-term visa for tourists entering the country for leisure purposes. It is usually valid for 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days.

2. Visit Visa: This visa is granted to individuals who have family or close relatives living in the UAE. It allows them to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

3. Transit Visa: For those passing through the UAE en route to another destination, a transit visa can be obtained at the airport upon arrival and is valid for 96 hours.

4. Work Visa: Also known as an Employment Entry Permit, this visa is required for individuals who have secured employment in the UAE. In order to obtain this visa, one must have sponsorship from an employer in the UAE.

5. Residence Visa: After obtaining a work permit and entering the country on a work visa, foreign nationals must apply for a residence visa within 60 days of arrival.

6. Student Visa: This visa is issued to students attending academic institutions in the UAE.

7. Retirement Visa: Individuals above 55 years of age and meeting certain financial criteria may apply for a retirement visa in order to live in the UAE during their retirement years.

8. Investor/Partner Visa: Foreign investors or business partners in companies registered in the UAE may obtain this type of visa.

9. Long-term Visit Visa: This type of visa allows individuals to enter and exit the country multiple times over a period of up to 10 years, with each stay being limited to six months at a time.

10. Golden Visa: The Golden Visa was introduced in 2019 as part of efforts to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to live and work in the UAE long term. It grants holders extended residency permits (up to 10 years) and certain benefits, such as access to government services and ownership of real estate.

3. How long does it take to get a visa for the UAE?

The processing time for a UAE visa may vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. In general, it can take anywhere from 2-14 days to get a visa for the UAE.

4. Do I need to get a visa before entering the UAE?
Yes, all foreign nationals (with few exceptions) require a visa to enter the UAE. It is recommended to obtain a visa before arriving in the country, as entry visas are not always issued upon arrival.

5. What is the maximum duration of stay allowed with a UAE tourist visa?
The maximum duration of stay allowed with a UAE tourist visa is typically 30 days, but this timeframe may vary based on the issuing authority or specific circumstances. Some types of visas may allow for longer stays, such as multiple-entry visas or business visas.

4. Do I need a sponsor to apply for a UAE visa?


There is no requirement for a sponsor to apply for a UAE visa. You can apply for a visa through registered travel agencies, hotels, or directly through the official government website. However, in some cases, a sponsor may be required, such as for certain types of employment visas or if you are visiting on a tourist visa and need an invitation from someone in the country. It is best to check with the specific requirements for your type of visa before applying.

5. What documents are required for a UAE visa application?


The documents may vary depending on the type of UAE visa being applied for. Generally, the following documents are required:

1. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and a minimum of two blank pages.
2. Completed visa application form (can be done online or in person)
3. Two recent passport-sized photographs.
4. Proof of accommodation in the UAE, such as hotel booking or invitation letter from a host.
5. Confirmed round-trip flight ticket.
6. Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the UAE, such as bank statements or credit card statements.
7. Travel insurance covering the duration of your stay in the UAE.
8. Depending on the purpose of your visit, additional documents may be required, such as a letter from an employer or business partner for a business visa, or marriage certificate for a spouse visa.
9.A copy of your Emirates ID (if you have one).
10.A return envelope with prepaid postage for delivery of your passport.

It is advisable to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for any additional requirements specific to your nationality or type of visa being applied for before submitting your application.

6. Can I apply for a UAE visa online?

Yes, you can apply for a UAE visa online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. You will need to provide all necessary documents and pay the required fees in order to submit your application successfully. The type of visa you are applying for will determine the specific requirements and application process.

7. Is there an age limit for obtaining a UAE visa?


Yes, the UAE does have an age limit for obtaining a visa. Generally, individuals under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to obtain a visa.

For tourist visas, minors under the age of 18 must also be accompanied by at least one adult family member if traveling without their parents. For business and long-term visas, minors under the age of 18 must provide a copy of their birth certificate and written consent from both parents or legal guardians.

There is no upper age limit for obtaining a UAE visa, but older individuals may face additional requirements or restrictions when applying for certain types of visas, such as medical exams for work or residency visas. It is best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for specific guidelines and requirements.

8. Can I extend my stay in the UAE with my current visa?


Yes, you can extend your stay in the UAE with your current visa. However, the process and requirements for extending your visa may vary depending on the type of visa you hold and the duration of your stay. It is recommended that you contact the relevant authorities, such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) in Abu Dhabi, for more information on how to extend your stay.

9. Can I work in the UAE with a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not allow you to work in the UAE. You will need to obtain a valid employment visa or work permit to legally work in the UAE.

10. Do I need to show proof of travel insurance when applying for a UAE visa?


Yes, proof of travel insurance is required when applying for a UAE visa. The insurance should cover medical expenses and emergency medical treatment for the entire duration of your stay in the UAE. If you are planning to visit the country for more than 90 days, you may also be required to show proof of coverage for repatriation and emergency evacuation. You can purchase travel insurance from any reputable insurance provider before submitting your visa application.

11. What is the cost of a UAE tourist visa?


The cost of a UAE tourist visa varies depending on the length of stay and purpose of visit. Here are some common fees:

– 14-day visa: AED 350 ($95)
– 30-day visa: AED 400 ($110)
– 90-day visa: AED 800 ($220)
– Multiple-entry tourist visa valid for 6 months: AED 2,500 ($680)

Fees may also vary depending on the application method (online or through an agency) and any additional services such as fast-track processing. It is best to check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date fees.

12. Do citizens from certain countries need to apply for a visit or tourist visa before arriving in the UAE?

Yes, citizens of certain countries are required to apply for a visit or tourist visa before arriving in the UAE. Some of these countries include India, Russia, China, Philippines, and South Africa. It is best to check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country for specific visa requirements.

13 How long can I stay in Dubai with a tourist Visa


Typically, a tourist visa for Dubai allows for a stay of up to 30 days. However, this may vary depending on the type of visa and your country of origin. It is important to check the specific details of your visa before traveling to ensure that you do not overstay your permitted time in Dubai.

14 Can I enter other emirates on a Dubai tourist Visa


No, a Dubai tourist visa only allows entry into Dubai and not other emirates in the United Arab Emirates. If you wish to visit other emirates, you will need to obtain a separate visa for each emirate, or a multiple entry visa for the UAE.

15 How do I renew my residency Visa


To renew your residency visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check the requirements: The first step is to find out what documents and requirements are needed for renewal. This may vary depending on the country where you hold your residency.

2. Submit an application form: You will need to fill out a visa renewal application form. This can usually be found on the immigration department’s website or obtained in person from their office.

3. Gather necessary documents: Prepare all the required supporting documents such as a valid passport, current residence permit, proof of employment or income, and any other relevant documentation.

4. Pay fees: Most countries charge a fee for renewing a residency visa. Make sure you have enough funds to cover these costs.

5. Schedule an appointment: Some countries require you to schedule an appointment before submitting your renewal application. Make sure to do this in advance to avoid any delays.

6. Attend biometric data collection if necessary: Depending on your country’s policies, you may be required to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints and/or a photo) at this stage.

7. Wait for processing: It may take a few weeks for your residency visa to be processed and renewed.

8. Collect your new visa: Once your application has been approved, you will be notified when and how to collect your renewed residency visa.

It is important to start the renewal process early, as some countries have strict deadlines for renewing visas before they expire.

16 Is there an age limit for sponsoring family members on my residence Visa?


The age limit for sponsoring family members on your residence visa varies depending on the country you are residing in. Some countries do not have specific age limits, while others have set an age restriction of 18 years or above. It is best to check with the immigration authorities of the country you are currently residing in to confirm their policies regarding sponsorship of family members on a residence visa.

17 Are there any restrictions or conditions on working on a residence Visa?


Yes, there are typically restrictions and conditions on working while on a residence visa. These may vary depending on the specific country and type of residence visa being held, but some common restrictions and conditions may include:

1. No work without a valid work permit: In many countries, a residence visa does not give you automatic permission to work. You may need to obtain a separate work permit before you can legally take up employment.

2. Limited to certain job categories or industries: Some countries only allow residence visa holders to work in specific job categories or industries, such as healthcare or technology.

3. Time limits: Your residence visa may have an expiry date, after which you will need to renew it if you wish to continue living and working in that country.

4. No self-employment: Many countries do not allow residence visa holders to run their own businesses or work as freelancers unless they have obtained special permission.

5. Minimum income requirements: Some countries require that residents earn a minimum income in order to maintain their status, which may affect their ability to work part-time or take lower-paying jobs.

6. Restrictions on resigning or changing jobs: Some residence visas have clauses that prohibit holders from quitting their current job or changing employers without notifying authorities first.

7. Reporting obligations: In some cases, residents must report changes in employment status or other personal details to immigration authorities, such as getting married, having children or moving cities.

It is important to check the specific regulations and conditions for your particular residence visa before taking up any kind of employment. Violating these restrictions could result in serious consequences, including fines, revocation of your residency status, deportation and even legal action.

18 Can I change my residence Visa sponsorship while residing in the UAE?

Yes, it is possible to change your residence visa sponsorship while residing in the UAE. This process is known as “visa transfer” and can be initiated by your new employer or sponsor. You will need to cancel your current visa and obtain a new employment entry permit from your new sponsor before the transfer process can be completed. The steps and requirements for transferring your residence visa may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the regulations of the respective emirate in which you reside. It is recommended to consult with a legal representative or immigration expert for assistance with this process.

19 Are there any medical requirements or vaccinations needed before getting a residency Visa?


Yes, there are certain medical requirements and vaccinations that may be required before obtaining a residency visa in some countries. These requirements can vary depending on the country and the purpose of your residency, such as work or study.

In general, most countries will require applicants to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are fit and healthy to reside in the country. This may include tests for infectious diseases, tuberculosis screenings, and vaccinations for diseases that are prevalent in the country.

Some countries may also have specific vaccine requirements based on your country of origin or intended length of stay. For example, yellow fever vaccination may be mandatory for travelers coming from certain African or South American countries.

It is best to check with your intended destination’s immigration department or consulate for the specific medical requirements and vaccinations needed for a residency visa. It is also recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for any necessary vaccines and medical exams before traveling to another country.

20 How long does it take to process and obtain a residence Visa in the UAE?


The processing time for a residence visa in the UAE can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the type of visa and any additional documentation or requirements. In general, it can take anywhere from 7-14 days to several weeks for the residence visa to be processed and obtained. It is important to note that there may also be delays due to background checks or other factors beyond the applicant’s control.