What is a UAE Residence Visa?

A UAE residence visa is an official permit that allows foreign nationals to live in the United Arab Emirates for an extended period. Unlike short-term tourist visas, residence visas are usually valid for 2 to 3 years, with the option to renew them repeatedly. Some categories, such as the Golden Visa, even grant residency for up to 10 years.

Since the UAE does not grant permanent residency in the traditional sense, continuous renewal of the residence visa is the only way for expatriates and their families to legally remain in the country. This system has enabled more than 8.8 million expatriates to build their lives and careers in the UAE.

UAE Residence Visa

Benefits of UAE Residence Visa

Obtaining a UAE residence visa comes with a wide range of advantages that make the Emirates one of the world’s most attractive destinations for professionals, entrepreneurs, and families.

  • Zero Personal Income Tax – No tax on salaries, rental income, investments, inheritance, or dividends.
  • Business Opportunities – Ability to register a company in free zones or on the mainland, work as a freelancer, or engage in e-commerce.
  • Low Corporate Tax – Just 9% corporate tax, one of the lowest globally, with exemptions for small businesses and certain free zone entities.
  • Banking Benefits – A residence visa makes it easier to open a bank account in Dubai or across the UAE, a vital step for entrepreneurs and investors.
  • Family Sponsorship – You can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents.
  • Ease of Travel – No need to reapply for tourist visas every time you enter the UAE.

These benefits position the UAE as a hub for international business and a family-friendly place to settle.

How to Get a UAE Residence Visa?

There are several pathways to obtaining a residence visa in the UAE:

Business Setup in UAE

Open a company in a free zone or on the mainland

Property Investment

Invest at least AED 750,000 in real estate to obtain a 2-year visa, or more for the Golden Visa

Employment

Secure a job offer with a UAE-based employer

Freelancer Permit

Apply for a freelance license in approved free zones

Education

Enroll in a UAE university or college

Family Sponsorship

Be sponsored by an eligible family member

Among these, setting up a business is currently the fastest and most flexible way to obtain residency. With over 40 free zones across the Emirates, entrepreneurs can register a company quickly and cost-effectively.

The UAE Residence Visa Process

Once you qualify for residency, the application process typically follows these steps:

  1. Register a business, buy property, gain employment, or obtain sponsorship.

  2. Create an immigration profile.

  3. Receive and activate your entry permit.

  4. Complete your medical fitness test.

  5. Apply for your Emirates ID.

  6. Get your residence visa issued electronically.

  7. Collect your Emirates ID card.

Most of these steps can be started remotely, though medical exams and final visa stamping must be completed in the UAE. The full process usually takes about 5–7 business days.

Costs of a UAE Residence Visa

The cost of a residence visa depends on the Emirate and visa type:

  • Northern Emirates (Ajman, Sharjah, RAK, UAQ): Lower fees for business setup and visas.

  • Dubai & Abu Dhabi: Higher due to licensing costs and mandatory health insurance.

On average, visa costs range between AED 3,500 – AED 7,500, depending on category and duration.

Where Can You Live With a UAE Residence Visa?

Your UAE residence visa allows you to live in any Emirate—even if your visa is issued in a different one. For example, you can set up a business in Dubai but live in Abu Dhabi.

However, note that your driver’s license must be issued in the Emirate where your visa was obtained. That means if you open a business in Abu Dhabi, you’ll need to acquire your driving license from Abu Dhabi’s Road and Traffic Authority.

Maintaining & Renewing Your UAE Residence Visa

To keep your visa valid, you must enter the UAE at least once every 6 months. Otherwise, your visa becomes invalid.

Renewal requires a new medical fitness test, Emirates ID renewal, and re-submission of visa grounds (business, property, employment, etc.). The renewal process is typically faster and more straightforward than the first application.

Cancelling a UAE Residence Visa

While many choose to stay long-term, some may need to cancel their residency. The process depends on whether you are in the UAE or abroad:

Inside the UAE

Submit your passport and cancellation request to the issuing authority (employer, free zone, or government).

If you’ve been away for more than 6 months, your visa will automatically be invalid. If less than 6 months, you may need to send your passport for official cancellation.

  • Passport copy

  • Emirates ID

  • Signed cancellation form

  • Labour card (if employed)

  • Employer or sponsor authorization

Cancellation can be done through GDRFA, ICA, mobile apps, or approved typing centres depending on where your visa was issued.

UAE Residence Visa - Frequently Asked Questions

Sponsoring a sister for UAE residency is allowed in exceptional cases. You’ll need to meet stricter financial requirements, provide proof of suitable housing, and receive special approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

No, once you’ve undergone the mandatory medical examination for your residence visa, you are required to stay in the UAE until the full visa issuance process is completed.

To qualify for a 2-year residency visa through property ownership, you must invest a minimum of AED 750,000. Investing a higher amount may open eligibility for long-term options, such as the 10-year Golden Visa for AED 2 Millions and above.

Yes, the UAE offers a Remote Work Visa (also known as the Virtual Working Program), which allows foreign professionals to live in the UAE while working for employers abroad. You’ll need to meet specific income criteria and provide proof of employment or business ownership.

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