If you’re living or working in Dubai, keeping your visa up to date is very important. Dubai’s visa rules apply to everyone—whether you’re here for work, business, studying, or tourism. Timely UAE visa renewal helps you stay legally in the city and avoid any disruptions to your daily life or work. Missing the renewal deadline can lead to serious issues, like fines or even deportation.
To make the process easy for you, this guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions on how to renew your visa in Dubai smoothly and visa renewal fees.
What is a UAE Residence Visa?
A UAE Residence Visa is a permit issued by the UAE government that allows foreign individuals to live and work in the country for a specified period. It’s essential for those who plan to stay in the UAE for more than 30 days.
This visa is necessary for those looking to settle in the UAE, including expatriates employed by UAE companies, business owners, investors, students, and family members of UAE residents.
Types of Visas in Dubai and Their Renewal Processes
Dubai offers various types of visas depending on the purpose of your stay:
1. Employment Visa
An employment visa is for individuals who have secured a job with a UAE-based company. The employer sponsors the visa and manages the renewal process.
Renewal Requirements:
- Must have a valid and ongoing employment contract.
- Required documents: passport, Emirates ID, recent photo, renewed labour contract, and valid medical insurance.
- A medical examination is mandatory for renewal.
- The company’s trade license and other business documents must also be valid.
2. Investor/Partner Visa
Investors are issued to business owners or investors who own shares in a UAE company. The visa is sponsored by the company in which the individual is a partner or shareholder.
Renewal Requirements:
- Proof of ongoing ownership or partnership in the business.
- Required documents: passport, Emirates ID, recent photo, proof of investment or partnership, and a valid trade license.
- A medical examination and health insurance are also required.
- Additional fees might be applicable depending on the visa duration (2 or 3 years).
3. Family Visa
Residents of Dubai can sponsor visas for their immediate family members (spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents).
Renewal Requirements:
- The sponsor must have a valid residency visa and meet the minimum salary requirement to support dependents.
- Required documents: passports of dependents, Emirates IDs, tenancy contract (Ejari), recent photos, and sponsor’s employment or business documents.
- Medical examination for family members over 18 years old and valid health insurance are necessary.
- A family visa can typically be renewed every 2-3 years.
4. Student Visa
A student visa is for individuals studying at an accredited university or educational institution in Dubai. The institution typically sponsors the visa.
Renewal Requirements:
- Proof of enrollment and continued academic status from the institution.
- Required documents: passport, Emirates ID, recent photo, and a letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment.
- Health insurance and a medical examination may also be required.
- The renewal duration depends on the length of the course, usually annually.
5. Tourist/Visit Visa
This visa is for short-term visitors coming to Dubai for tourism or visiting family/friends. Tourist visas can be sponsored by airlines, hotels, or travel agencies, while a resident or family member usually sponsors visit visas.
Renewal Requirements:
- Tourist visas can be extended for 30 days, while visit visas might be extended twice for up to 90 days.
- Required documents: passport, current visa copy, and proof of financial means (if applicable).
- A fee is applicable for each renewal or extension.
- No medical examination is required for renewing tourist/visit visas.
Documents Required for Visa Renewal in Dubai
When renewing a visa in Dubai, certain general requirements apply to all visa types, while additional criteria may be specific to the type of visa you hold.
- Old residency visa copy
- Passport-Size photographs
Additional Criteria for Specific Visa Categories:
- Valid employment contract
- Proof of business ownership
- Sponsor’s valid residency
- Marriage/Birth certificates
How to Renew a Visa in Dubai, UAE?
UAE visa renewal is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps. Here’s a step-by-step visa renewal process:
1. Check Visa Expiry Date
Before starting the renewal process in Dubai, check the expiration date on your current visa. Begin the renewal process at least 30 days before the expiry to avoid any penalties.
2. Gather Required Documents
Collect all the required documents for your visa type. Ensure that your passport, Emirates ID, and other supporting documents are valid and ready.
3. Undergo Medical Examination
Schedule a medical examination at a government-approved health centre. Ensure you receive the medical fitness report, as this is essential for the UAE renewal visa process.
4. Apply for Renewal
Use the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or app to submit your application online. Alternatively, you can use the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) portal. Or you can visit an authorized typing centre or the GDRFA office to fill out the application form. Make sure to take all the required documents along.
5. Pay Visa Renewal Fees
Pay the visa renewal fees, which vary based on the visa type and duration. Payment can be made online or at the typing centre, depending on your application method.
6. Submit Application and Documents
Upload the scanned copies of your documents as instructed. If you are applying in person, hand over all the documents to the staff at the typing center or GDRFA office.
7. Receive Confirmation
After submission, you will receive confirmation of your application. Keep this confirmation as it may contain a reference number to track the status of your application.
8. Track Application Status
Use the reference number to track your application status through the GDRFA or ICA websites.
9. Collect Your New Visa
Once approved, you can collect your new visa and Emirates ID. If you applied online, the new visa may be sent to you via email or SMS notification. You might need to visit the GDRFA office for the Emirates ID collection.
What are the Dubai Visa Renewal Fees?
The total UAE visa renewal cost can vary significantly depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. On average, you might expect to pay between AED 1,000 and AED 5,000, including all fees.
Here’s the breakdown of the potential cost:
- Visa Renewal Fee in UAE: Generally, range between AED 1000 to AED 3000, depending on your visa type.
- Emirates ID Renewal Fee: Approximately AED 300 to AED 500.
- Medical Test Costs: AED 250 and AED 1,000, depending on the health centre and type of tests required.
- Typing Center Fees: AED 100 to AED 300.
- Fines for Late Renewal (if applicable): AED 125 for the first day and AED 25 for each subsequent day of overstay.
What to Do if Your UAE Visa Renewal Is Rejected?
Receiving a visa renewal rejection can be stressful, but it’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to address the situation. Carefully read the notification or letter provided by the immigration authority explaining the reason for the rejection. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete documentation.
- Medical fitness issues.
- Financial insufficiencies.
- Failure to meet specific eligibility criteria.
If you believe the rejection was unjust or due to a misunderstanding, you may have the option to appeal. You can also reapply for the UAE visa renewal. Ensure that your new application includes all required documents and is free of errors.
If you’re unsure how to proceed or need help with the appeal process, consider seeking assistance from a professional immigration consultant or legal advisor like Shuraa. We can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Fast Track Your Visa Renewal in the UAE With Shuraa!
Renewing your visa in Dubai is an essential step to keep your residency status and continue enjoying everything this amazing city has to offer. Making sure to renew your visa on time can help you avoid fines and legal issues, and it ensures you stay compliant with the ever-changing rules in the UAE.
It’s essential to stay informed about the latest immigration policies, as they can change often. To make the renewal process easier and smoother, consider reaching out to experts in business setup and immigration, like Shuraa Business Setup. Our expert team is here to help you with every part of the visa process, from handling paperwork to dealing with any legal details.
At Shuraa, we understand the complexities of the UAE visa system and are here to make your journey as easy as possible. Let us help you fast-track your visa renewal process. Get in touch today at +971 4 4081900, WhatsApp at +971 50 7775554, or [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days will it take to renew my Dubai visa?
The time it takes to renew a Dubai visa can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of visa and the completeness of your application. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 1 to 10 working days. With the help of Shuraa Business Setup, you can fast-track your renewal process and ensure that everything is handled efficiently.
2. What documents do I need to renew my Dubai visa?
To renew your Dubai visa, you typically need:
- A completed visa application form.
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months’ validity.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- A valid medical fitness certificate.
- Your current visa copy.
Any additional documents specific to your visa type (e.g., employment contract for work visas).
3. How to cancel a Dubai residence visa?
To cancel a Dubai residence visa, you need to follow these steps:
- Submit a cancellation request to the GDRFA or your employer (if you are on an employment visa).
- Ensure that all related documents, such as your passport and Emirates ID, are available.
- Pay any applicable cancellation fees.
- Once the cancellation is processed, you will receive a cancellation confirmation.
4. Can I renew my visa if it has already expired?
Yes, you can renew your visa even if it has expired; however, you may incur fines for the days you have overstayed. It’s advisable to initiate the renewal process as soon as possible to minimize any penalties.
5. Do I need to undergo a medical test for visa renewal?
Yes, a medical fitness test is generally required for visa renewal, especially for employment and residency visas. The medical examination must be conducted at an authorized medical center, and the results are valid for a limited time.
6. Can I change my visa type when renewing?
Yes, it is possible to change your visa type during the renewal process. For example, if you are switching from a work visa to a family visa, you will need to provide the relevant documentation and meet the eligibility criteria for the new visa type.
