residence visa of uae

The UAE offers various types of residence visas to expatriates, each serving different purposes and catering to different categories of applicants. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the primary types of residence visas available in the UAE, along with their general requirements and processes:

Types of UAE Residence Visas

1. Employment Visa
   • Purpose: For individuals employed by UAE-based companies.
   • Requirements:
     • Valid employment contract.
     • Company sponsorship.
     • Medical fitness test.
     • Approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Ministration (MoHRE).
   • Process: The employer handles most of the application process, including the initial entry permit and residence visa stamping.
2. Investor/Partner Visa
   • Purpose: For individuals investing in a business or property in the UAE.
   • Requirements:
     • Proof of investment (such as ownership documents for a business or property).
     • Approval from relevant authorities (e.g., Department of Economic Development for business investors).
     • Medical fitness test.
   • Process: The investor must demonstrate their investment and meet other regulatory requirements.
3. Family Visa
   • Purpose: For family members of UAE residents.
   • Eligibility: Spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents.
   • Requirements:
     • Sponsor must have a minimum salary requirement (varies by emirate).
     • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
     • Medical fitness test for adults.
   • Process: The resident sponsor applies for the visa on behalf of their family members.
4. Student Visa
   • Purpose: For students enrolled in educational institutions in the UAE.
   • Requirements:
     • Admission to a UAE-based educational institution.
     • Financial proof or sponsorship.
     • Medical fitness test.
   • Process: The educational institution often assists with the visa application process.
5. Retirement Visa
   • Purpose: For retirees aged 55 and above.
   • Requirements:
     • Proof of retirement.
     • Financial criteria (savings, property ownership, or monthly income).
   • Process: Applicants must demonstrate their financial stability and meet other specified criteria.
6. Golden Visa
   • Purpose: Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and outstanding students.
   • Validity: 5 or 10 years, renewable.
   • Requirements:
     • Significant financial investment.
     • Outstanding skills or contributions in their field.
   • Process: Applicants must meet the specific eligibility criteria for their category.

General Requirements and Procedures

• Medical Fitness Test: All applicants above a certain age (usually 18) must undergo a medical test at a UAE-approved medical center.
• Emirates ID: After passing the medical test, applicants need to apply for an Emirates ID at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all UAE residents. Proof of coverage is often required during the visa application process.
• Entry Permit: Depending on the visa type, applicants may initially receive an entry permit, allowing them to enter the UAE and complete the residence visa process within the country.
• Visa Stamping: Once all requirements are met, the residence visa is stamped into the applicant’s passport.

Application Process

1. Initiation: Depending on the visa type, either the individual or the sponsor (employer, family member, educational institution) initiates the application process.
2. Document Submission: Submit all required documents, including passport copies, photographs, medical fitness certificate, proof of insurance, and any specific documents related to the visa type.
3. Approval and Entry Permit: Upon approval, an entry permit is issued, allowing the applicant to enter the UAE.
4. Finalization: Complete the necessary medical tests, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping within the UAE.

Renewal and Cancellation

• Renewal: Residence visas are renewable, typically every 2-3 years, depending on the visa type. Renewal involves repeating some steps, such as the medical fitness test and Emirates ID renewal.
• Cancellation: Sponsors or employers can cancel the visa, usually when employment ends or the visa holder plans to leave the UAE permanently. Cancellation requires the return of the Emirates ID and the cancellation of the visa in the passport.

For the most accurate and detailed information, it is recommended to consult the official UAE government portals or authorized visa service providers, as regulations and requirements can change.