Like every other country in the world, the UAE offers visas to foreigners wishing to visit, live, study and work there. The difference is with the types of tickets available to different people. While some countries have residence permits and even issue IDs, the UAE only has a residence visa. This visa type is essential for foreigners wishing to live in the UAE for extended periods. Whether you're looking at extending your stay for 2, 3, or even ten years, the residency visa is what you'll apply for. Let's take a look at the application process.
Who Qualifies for The UAE Residence Visa?
For you to be eligible to obtain a UAE residence visa, you need to fall under one or several of the following categories;
People looking to work in the country, whether as a government or private entity employee
Prospective higher education students
Dependents of UAE citizens or foreign residents (family or housemaids)
Investors
Property owners or developers
Retirees
When Should You Look to Renew Your Visa?
Typically, it's only possible to renew your expiring visa within 30 days of the expiry date. However, suppose you need to renew it earlier, say 1 to 6 months. In that case, you may require approval and special permission from the General Directory of Residency and Foreign Affairs office that issued your residence visa. Usually, this permission is only granted if you travel outside the UAE.
Steps To Renewing Your Residence Visa
There are four steps you need to take during this renewal process. These are:
Step One: Filling In Details Of Your Emirates ID
Obtain this application online at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security or by visiting an authorized typing center. A public relations officer or representative will help you complete the application for a fee. You must provide the following documents;
Front and back pages of your passport
Copies of both sides of your Emirates ID Card
A recently captured color photograph
Copy of your residence visa
The cost you incur depends on how extended your stay will be. These are Dh195 for one year, Dh295 for two years, and Dh395 for three years. The process can take anywhere from a day to five days and will be posted via Emirati Post to your neighborhood.
Step Two: Medical Test
This is standard for all within the UAE's borders, and tests for diseases such as TB and HIV. These tests are carried out at the government's medical fitness centers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras al Khaimah Umm al Quwain, and Fujairah.
During the test, you'll need to produce a valid passport copy, Emirates ID, and a colored photograph against a white background. You may also require a copy of your ID application form, depending on which state you choose to make the application in.
The test cost is Dh250, and the results are sent to you via SMS or email. A courier will also deliver your medical fitness certificate necessary for renewing your residence visa.
Step Three: Renewal
As per the May 16th announcement by the ICP, the ID Card will take the place of the stickers as the primary form of determining your residency in the UAE. Once you have your medical fitness certificate, you can renew your residence visa. You can do this either at an immigration center or online. If you decide to do it at a registered typing facility, you can hand in your passport at the kiosk for courier delivery.
When renewing, prepare the following documents;
Emirates ID Application
Health card or Medical Insurance
Medical Fitness Certificate
Passport Copy
A recently captured photograph with a white background.
All the costs for renewal add up to Dh200.
Step Four: Collection
When the authorities approve your UAE residence visa renewal, they will send you the passport and the visa sticker via an authorized courier service. Your new Emirates ID will also be posted to your nearest post office.
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