How can I obtain a residence visa in Dubai?

Dubai, with its luxurious lifestyle, thriving economy, and unlimited business opportunities, attracts expatriates from around the world. If you are considering moving to Dubai, obtaining a residence visa is an essential step. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a residence visa in Dubai, detailing the various options available and the necessary procedures.

Types of residence visas in Dubai

Residence visa through employment

One of the most common ways to obtain a residence visa in Dubai is through employment. If you have received a job offer from a company based in Dubai, the company will sponsor your visa and cover all the costs associated with obtaining the Dubai residence visa. The process includes several steps:

1. Obtaining the job offer: Make sure the company is registered and authorized to sponsor visas.
2. Entry visa: The employer applies for a temporary entry visa to allow you to come to Dubai.
3. Medical tests: Upon arrival, you will need to undergo medical tests.
4. Obtaining the Emirates ID: Once you have passed the tests, you can apply for the Emirates ID.
5. Finalizing the residence visa: Finally, you will receive your electronic residence visa (for some time now, residence visas in the form of a pink sticker are no longer affixed inside your passport)

Residence visa through investment

Investing in Dubai is another way to obtain a residence visa. There are several options, including purchasing property and investing in local companies.

1. Property residence visa: By purchasing a property worth at least AED 750,000, you can obtain a renewable 2-year residence visa as long as the property remains in your name.
2. Investor residence visa: By establishing a freezone or mainland company (offshore status does not allow its partners to obtain a residence visa in the UAE), you can obtain a 2-year residence visa.

Residence visa for family members

Dubai residents, whether employees or partners in a company, can sponsor their family members for a residence visa. The criteria and process vary slightly depending on the status of the sponsoring person.

1. Spousal sponsorship: If your spouse works in Dubai, they can sponsor you.
2. Sponsorship by a child: Residents can also sponsor their parents, provided they prove that they can support them financially and provide accommodation.

Residence visa for retirees

Take advantage of a 5-year Dubai visa intended for retirees. This visa is available only to retirees aged 55 and over, and it has a validity period of 5 years for those who wish to live in Dubai after retirement. As a retiree, you can obtain a renewable 5-year residence visa if you meet certain financial conditions, allowing you to enjoy Dubai's family-friendly lifestyle and secure environment. This visa can be automatically renewed after the initial 5-year period, provided that the retiree continues to meet the established criteria.

Steps to obtain a residence visa

Preparing the documents

The first step in obtaining a residence visa in Dubai is preparing the necessary documents. These generally include:

1. Passport: A clear copy of your valid passport.
2. Photographs: Recent passport-size photos.
3. Employment contract: For employment visas, a copy of your employment contract.
4. Proof of investment or property ownership: For investment visas, documents proving your investment or property ownership.
5. Marriage and/or birth certificate: For family visas, copies of marriage and birth certificates.

Submitting the application

Once the documents have been prepared, you can submit your application through your sponsor (employer, spouse, etc.) or directly if you are applying for an investment residence visa.

Undergoing medical examinations

All residence visa applicants must undergo medical examinations. These include blood tests and chest X-rays to detect diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis. Medical tests are intended only for people over 15 years of age.

Obtaining the Emirates ID: the EmiratesID

After receiving the results and passing the medical examinations, the next step is to apply for the Emirates ID. To do this, you will need to have your fingerprints taken (only for people over 15 years of age). This card is essential for many administrative procedures in Dubai, such as renting a property and therefore obtaining an EJARI (necessary when you wish to sponsor family members), subscribing to a telephone plan, applying for an Emirati driving license, purchasing a vehicle, etc. Obtaining a residence visa in Dubai is complex, which is why you should be assisted by professionals when applying. Our firm handles your residence visas as well as those of your family. Whether you are coming to work, invest, join your family, or enjoy your retirement, Dubai offers residence visa options suited to various situations. To obtain your quote: support@merritt.group.