New validity period for all free zone residence visa applications
For the past few weeks, all visas issued by free zones have had a validity period of 2 years, compared with 3 years previously. Anyone applying for a new residence visa through a free zone will be granted a visa valid for 2 years.
This applies to new visas, visa renewals, and visa transfers.
Visa fees remain unchanged, and no discount will be applied. As for the administrative procedures, they remain the same: you will need a valid passport, an entry visa, a medical examination, fingerprinting, etc.
Two-year validity period for residence visas issued by a free zone in Dubai
Among the major changes announced earlier this year is the new rule concerning the validity of residence visas in Dubai and the Emirates issued by free zones.
In an official statement, it was clearly announced that the previous three-year validity period has now been reduced to two years for all new residence visa applications submitted in Dubai or the United Arab Emirates.
It should be remembered that previously, visa validity periods differed between mainland and free zones.
- For companies located in a free zone: the validity period was 3 years for investors and employees.
- For companies located in the mainland: the residence visa validity period was 3 years for investors only; for employees, the period was only 2 years.
What about current 3-year visas?
Anyone holding a valid 3-year residence visa at the time of the announcement will be able to use it until the expiration date stated on the visa. The visa will only have a 2-year expiration date when it is renewed.
As for visas that were being processed or renewed at the time of the announcement, they will have a validity period of 2 years in accordance with the new requirements of the local authorities.
Reminder: how do you obtain a residence visa in the Emirates?
If you are considering settling permanently or temporarily in the Emirates, you will need a residence visa. Are you wondering how to obtain a residence visa so that you can live in the Emirates? There are different ways to obtain a residence visa and an Emirates ID in Dubai. We have listed the different ways to apply for a residence visa in Dubai:- You have the option of setting up a company in a free zone or mainland, or obtaining a freelance permit (please note that an offshore company does not provide the option of obtaining residency in the Emirates);
- Find a job and have your employer sponsor you through an employment contract;
- Be married and be sponsored by your spouse;
- Be a child and be sponsored by your parents (please note that there are specific conditions for sponsoring children);
- Be a parent and be sponsored by your children (please note that there are specific conditions for sponsoring parents);
- Or purchase real estate worth a minimum of AED 750,000.
Our firm assists you in obtaining residency in Dubai and the Emirates
The first company registered by Merritt in the Emirates dates back to 2019. Since then, our firm has continued to assist expatriates with company formations, obtaining residence visas, and acquiring driving licenses.
Our firm specializes in obtaining residence visas for you, your family, your domestic staff, and your employees.
We are fully familiar with all the formalities involved in the residence visa application process. If you would like more information, please contact us by email at support@merritt.group
