How to Secure a UAE Residency | UAE Residence Visa Renewal

Get United Arab Emirates Residency

Falling oil prices are having a cascading effect on the UAE and world economies.

Talking specifically about the UAE, the oil price dip has hit expatriate employment across all industries. In fact, recent surveys have estimated that the expat workforce in the country had plunged by 9 percent in the first quarter compared with the same time last year. However, the resilience of the country’s spending on major projects has meant that the adverse effect is nowhere near as severe as the oil and gas industry faces globally.

Not surprisingly then, a number of companies in the oil and gas industry have had to size down their local operations and let go of employees in a bid to reduce costs in the wake of surviving the decline in oil prices. Not just in the region but around the world, companies in the oil and gas industry have reduced their staff size. In fact, according to Forbes data, as of the first quarter, companies have shed at least 75,000 people worldwide.

Looking for UAE Residency Visa ?

If you’re looking to get a UAE residency visa without having to be sponsored by an employer, what are your options?

1. Set up and register your own company in Dubai Your business becomes your sponsor. However, remember that you will need to have a local partner, i.e., a UAE citizen, to avail this option.
2. Buy a property The property developer becomes your sponsor. However, keep in mind that this does not entitle you to work in the UAE. The advantage of this option – no requirement to register a company.
3. Our recommended option: Set up a consultancy off of a UAE Free Zone This will enable you to become eligible for both residency and work permits. A company registered in one of the UAE Free Zones grants you the right to apply documents for residency in the UAE as the company’s shareholder: not just for you but also for employees, if necessary. This is a very convenient and efficient way to obtain a UAE business visa. Getting a visa only takes a few weeks and the expenses incurred are relatively low. The added advantage is that it is not necessary for your company to perform real business activity to secure UAE residency status. The time needed for application, company registration and obtaining of residency status is approximately one month or slightly longer and the residency visa issued is for a period of three years.

Who Needs a Residence Visa Renewal?

In the UAE, a residence visa allows expatriates to legally reside, work, and sponsor family members within the country.  A residence visa holder must renew the visa before it expires to avoid fines and penalties. This section will outline the different types of residence visas in the UAE and the crucial timeframe for initiating the renewal process.

Types of UAE Residence Visas:

The UAE offers a variety of residence visas catering to different purposes. Here are some of the most common:

• Employment Visa: This is the most prevalent type, issued to employees sponsored by their company.
• Investor Visa: Issued to individuals who invest a specific amount in a UAE business.
• Student Visa: Issued to students enrolled in accredited academic institutions.
• Retirement Visa: Issued to financially secure individuals over a certain age (typically 55 or 60).
• Freelance Visa: Issued to self-employed individuals who meet specific criteria.
• Domestic UAE Work Visa: Issued to domestic helpers employed by UAE residents.

It’s important to note that each visa type may have its own specific renewal requirements and procedures.

When to Initiate the Visa Extension Process:

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid complications, initiating the dubai residence visa renewal process well before the expiry date is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended timeframe:

• Before Expiry: It’s advisable to begin the renewal process at least two months before the visa’s expiry date. This allows ample time for application processing, medical test, and any potential delays.
• Grace Period: The UAE offers a 30-day grace period after the visa expires. However, during this time, residents cannot legally work, leave the country, or sponsor dependents. Renewal attempts within the grace period may incur additional fees.

Remember, it’s the sponsor’s responsibility (employer, investor, etc.) to initiate and complete the UAE residence visa renewal process for their dependents and employees. Early initiation helps ensure a seamless renewal and avoids any legal repercussions for both the resident and the sponsor.

The UAE Visa Renewal Process (Online and Offline Options)

Renewing a UAE residence visa can be done conveniently online or through traditional offline channels. This section will provide a step-by-step guide for both methods, outlining the required documents and sponsor responsibilities.

UAE Residence Visa Renewal Online

1. Access the ICP website: Visit the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) at https://icp.gov.ae/en/.
2. Login and Select Service: Register or log in to your account and navigate to the “Residence Permit” section. Choose the “Renewal” option.
3. Applicant Information: Enter the resident’s details, including Emirates ID number, passport information, and visa type.
4. Sponsor Information: If you’re the sponsor, provide your company details and Emirates ID number.
5. Fees and Payment: Review the applicable fees and proceed with secure online payment using a debit or credit card.
6. Medical Fitness Test: Schedule a medical fitness test appointment at an approved medical center. Upload the test results upon completion.
7. Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of the required documents (explained below).
8. Submission and Tracking: Apply and track its status online. You’ll receive a notification upon approval for visa collection.

UAE Residence Visa Renewal Offline

1. Visit a Typing Center or GDRFA Service Center: Locate a registered typing center or a General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) service center in your emirate.
2. Complete Application Form: Collect and complete the official residence visa renewal application form.
3. Document Submission: Provide the required documents (explained below) to the typing center or service center representative.
4. Fees and Payment: Settle the applicable fees as instructed by the service center.
5. Medical Fitness Test: Similar to the online process, schedule a medical fitness test and submit the results upon completion.
6. Collection: Once processed, you’ll be notified to collect the renewed visa and Emirates ID.

Documents Required for Renewal (Common for Both Methods)

• Original passport of the resident with valid travel document pages.
• Colored passport-sized photograph of the resident with a white background.
• Emirates ID application receipt (obtained during online application or typing center visit).
• Medical fitness test certificate (valid for one year).
• Employment contract (for employment visas).
• Proof of company registration and sponsor’s Emirates ID (for company-sponsored visas).
• Additional documents specific to the visa type might be required.

At Business Setup Consultants , we provide complete support in helping clients get residency in the UAE .

Give us a call on +971 4 4301245 or email us at info@businessetup.com to get started!