The United Arab Emirates is a popular destination with a good standard of living, a rising economy, and a well-established infrastructure. People from all over the world call it their home. However, one needs a visa to stay for an extended period in the UAE. Let us look at the different visa types available in the UAE, the significant advantages of getting a resident visa, and the cost of obtaining one.
What Are the Types of Residence Visas in the UAE?
The seven emirates together make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Therefore, individuals who want to live and work for an extended period in any of those emirates must obtain a residency visa in the UAE. There are several types of visas available, and they are as follows:
Virtual Work Residence Visa
Foreigners working outside of the UAE can legitimately live in the country with this UAE residence visa. Also known as the freelance visa, it is valid for one year and requires renewal after the specified time.
Investor Visa
This visa is essential for participating in or establishing commercial activities in the UAE. It is valid for up to three years. Moreover, the company you invest in will sponsor this visa for you.
Employment Visa
This UAE residence visa is valid for 5 years. It allows an individual to stay in the UAE with a valid employment contract.
Family Visa
A family visa is for individuals with family members living in Dubai. A family member who is also a resident of Dubai sponsors it. It is valid for up to five years.
Blue Visa
It is a 10-year UAE residence visa granted explicitly to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to environmental sustainability.
Golden Visa
This UAE residence visa is a long-term visa that allows foreigners to stay, work, or study in the UAE. Learn more about the golden visa in the UAE here.
Visa for Retired
This long-term visit visa allows retired foreigners to live in the UAE and is valid for 5 years.
Student Visa
This UAE residence visa allows students to stay in the UAE either through their parents’ sponsorship or their university’s sponsorship. It is given for one year and one can renew it upon offering proof of continuation of the study.
UAE residence visas are of several types, and each has its own requirements and benefits. Therefore, researching and understanding each visa type's requirements is essential before applying.
Documents Required for Residence Visa in UAE
Each type of residence visa in the UAE has its specific requirements. However, here are the general requirements for each type of Visa:
| Documents Required | Virtual Work Residence Visa | Investor Visa | For Working in the UAE | Family Visa | Student Visa | Blue Visa | Golden Visa | Visa for Retired |
|---|
| Valid Passport | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Valid Job Offer | Yes | - | Yes | - | - | - | Yes | - |
| Medical Fitness Certificate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Police Clearance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Proof of Investment | - | Yes | - | - | - | - | Yes | - |
| Proof of Property Ownership | - | - | Yes | - | - | - | Yes | Yes |
| Resident Sponsor | - | - | - | Yes | - | - | - | - |
| Proof of Relationship | - | - | - | Yes | - | - | - | - |
| Univ. Acceptance Letter | - | - | - | - | Yes | - | - | - |
| Financial Support | - | - | - | - | Yes | - | Yes | - |
| Income Proof | Yes | - | - | - | Yes | - | - | Yes |
It is important to note that the specific requirements for each visa type may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.
How to Get the Residence Visa in the UAE?
Obtaining a UAE residence visa is simple. Here’s a quick overview of the steps to get a residence visa in the UAE.
Seek an Expert’s Assistance
Choosing the appropriate UAE residence visa can be tricky with a wide range of options. Consultants, such as Business Setup Worldwide, ensure the proper selection of a visa as per your requirements.
Select the Visa Type
As discussed above, there are multiple options to choose from. For example, an investor visa is a suitable choice for entrepreneurs. Similarly, an employment visa is apt for individuals in job roles in the UAE.
Fill Out the Application Form
After selecting the suitable UAE residence visa, fill out our application form. An agent will be assigned to you to help you through the process.
Submit Essential Documents
As mentioned above, document requirements vary according to the visa. Submit the documents as per your selected visa type to get started with the process.
Pay the Visa Cost
The residence visa cost in the UAE varies according to the type of visa and the number of days you plan to stay. Pay the UAE residence visa cost and obtain your visa.
Benefits of Different Types of UAE Residence Visas
Each type of residence visa in the UAE offers its own set of benefits. Here are some of the advantages of each type of Visa:
Employment Visa
- Ability to work legally in the UAE
- Opportunity to earn a tax-free income
- Access to employment benefits, such as healthcare and social security
Investor Visa
- Ability to invest in a business or company in the UAE
- Opportunity to earn a tax-free income
- Access to business opportunities in the UAE
Blue Visa
- It provides a 10-year residency
- Encourages long-term research and innovation
- It is a self-sponsored visa.
Visa for Retired
- A 5-year renewable residency for individuals above the age of 55 years
- Can sponsor spouse and children
- Can enjoy the UAE tax-free living environment post-retirement
Family Visa
- Ability to live with family members who are residents of the UAE
- Opportunity to work or study in the UAE
Student Visa
- Opportunity to study at a reputable educational institution in the UAE
- Access to world-class education facilities and resources
- Opportunity to explore and experience the UAE culture and lifestyle
Virtual Work Visa
- Ability to work as a freelancer in the UAE
- Opportunity to earn income while enjoying the UAE lifestyle
- Flexibility to work with multiple clients and projects
Golden Visa
- Opportunity to stay in the UAE for an extended period
- Access to the UAE's world-renowned tourist attractions and cultural experiences
- Flexibility to travel in and out of the UAE during the visa's validity period
It is important to note that the benefits of each visa type may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.
How Much Does a Residence Visa Cost in the UAE?
The residence visa costs in the UAE depend on various factors and can vary accordingly. Here’s a general overview of UAE visa costs:
- Family and property visa typically requires an application fee and a refundable security deposit.
- For visas exceeding two years, issuance fees increase incrementally per year.
- Specialized options like the Golden Visa or Investor visa have high government charges and documentation costs.
- The virtual work residency visa is the cheapest residency visa in the UAE.
- There an be additional expenses such as Emirates ID fees, medical examinations, and visa stamping that may apply.
For the most accurate quote tailored to your needs, please contact us directly.
Factors Affecting UAE Residence Visa Cost
Residence visa cost in the UAE can vary depending on various factors. Here’s a quick overview:
Visa type greatly influences the cost of a UAE residence. It can be safely said that obtaining a visa usually costs upwards of AED 1500. Aside from this, Dubai residence visa costs anywhere between 3000 AED and 11000 AED.
The period of stay also influences the UAE residence visa cost. Moreover, the UAE also levies an additional fee of AED 100 for each extra year on stays of more than 2 years.
Dubai markets itself as a premium hub for businesses. Dubai residence visa cost is the highest among all the emirates and ranges between 3000 AED and 10000 AED.
Why Choose Business Setup Worldwide?
At Business Setup Worldwide, we assist you every step of the way. Our team of experts will guide you through the UAE residence visa application process, prepare all necessary documents, and obtain the required permissions and approvals on your behalf. Contact us and inform us of your business needs; we will handle everything else. Don't hesitate to make your dream of living and working in any of the Emirates a reality with our expert assistance.
