The UAE is a global attractor of all kinds of people, be it skilled workers, tourists, investors, and many more. All of them require a visa, but it comes with a deadline. To make sure the authorities of the UAE do not throw you out of the country, you must renew your visa before the deadline. If you do not know the procedure, worry not, we are here! Through this blog, we will make you aware of different kinds of visas in the UAE and their renewal procedure, along with essential information that will be crucial to understanding the whole dynamics of the visa renewal procedure in the UAE.
What Are The Major Types Of Visas In The UAE?
As we mentioned in the introduction, there are various kinds of people who come to the UAE for different purposes, each requiring a distinct visa. To eradicate all the doubts, we have all the major visas of the UAE in detail:
Work Visa
- Purpose: You can issue a work visa if you get any employment opportunity in the UAE.
- Requirements: To attain a work visa in the UAE, you must have a valid job offer, employment contract, work permit, medical fitness certificate, and other relevant documents required in the process.
- Renewal: In order to renew your work visa, you must make sure you have a valid employment contract, an up-to-date medical fitness certificate, proof of the company’s financial solvency, and payment of renewal fees.
Tourist Visa
- Purpose: The authorities of the UAE issue a tourist visa for short-term tourism visits to the UAE.
- Duration: The tourist visa generally remains valid for 30 days.
- Extension: If required, you have the option to extend your tourist visa once for 30 days.
- Types: Tourist visas are of multiple types, such as single-entry, multiple-entry, visa-on-arrival (for eligible nationalities), or pre-arranged tourist visas.
Residency Visa
- Purpose: Residency allows you to stay in the UAE for the long term.
- Types: Residency visas are also of multiple types, including an employment residency visa (sponsored by an employer), a family residency visa (sponsored by a family member), an investor residency visa, and a golden visa.
- Renewal: If you want to renew your residency visa, you need a valid sponsorship, proof of financial means, and payment of renewal fees.
Investor and Entrepreneur Visa
- Purpose: This kind of visa is given to investors and entrepreneurs who meet specific criteria, which include making a significant investment or establishing a business.
- Benefits: With an investor or entrepreneur visa, you are entitled to long-term residency, access to certain privileges, and opportunities to start or expand businesses.
- Renewal: If you need to renew your investor or entrepreneur visa, you must continue investment or business activity and meet specific criteria as directed by the authorities.
Student Visa
- Purpose: A student visa is generally issued for international students to get an education in UAE educational institutions.
- Requirements: In order to get a student visa, you are required to have an admission letter, proof of financial support, and a valid passport.
- Renewal: This type of visa is generally given to the students in accordance with the duration of their study program, subject to academic performance.
Golden Visa
- Purpose: This is a special kind of visa, specially granted to investors, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals as a long-term residency visa.
- Benefits: A golden visa entitles you to a lot of benefits, including long-term residency, access to certain privileges, and opportunities to start or expand businesses.
- Requirements: In order to obtain a golden visa, you must fulfill specific criteria, such as investment amount, property ownership, or exceptional talent.
- Renewal: The UAE government allows golden visas to be renewed for multiple years.
What Is The Procedure For Visa Renewal In The UAE?
If you want to renew your visa in the UAE, generally you need to follow the following steps in the proper manner. Have a look:
Step 1: Get All The Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Current visa copy
- Proof of residence (e.g., Emirates ID, tenancy contract)
- Medical fitness certificate (if required)
- Any other documents specific to your visa type (e.g., employment contract, student visa documents)
Step 2: Visit the Relevant Authority (ICP or GDRFA)
For most visas across the UAE, you will need to visit the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) website or an approved center. If your visa was issued in Dubai, you should visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) online or in person to submit your application and required documents.
Step 3: Payment
After submitting all the required documents and fulfilling other requirements, you will be asked to pay the renewal fees.
Step 4: Biometric Data
Sometimes, you might be asked to provide biometric data such as your photograph, fingerprints, and other necessary data.
Step 5: Wait For Approval And Collect Your Renewed Visa
After submitting your application, the authorities will review it. Once approved, you can collect your renewed passport with the new visa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I renew my UAE visa in 2025?
Submit the required documents and fees through the UAE ICP or GDRFA portal.
What documents are needed for visa renewal?
Required documents include a valid passport, current visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness certificate if necessary.
Can I extend a UAE visit visa without leaving the country?
While often possible, this depends on the current regulations. Check with the ICP or GDRFA for the latest updates.
How much does it cost to extend a tourist visa in the UAE?
Visa extension fees are subject to change. Check the official UAE government sources for the most up-to-date costs.
Can I renew a UAE residence visa before six months of expiry?
Generally, renewal is allowed within a few months of expiry. The exact timeframe varies by emirate and visa type.
What are the overstay fees in the UAE?
Overstay fees are AED 50 per day, plus AED 300 for an exit permit.
How can I check my UAE visa status?
Use the ICP website for most UAE visas or the GDRFA website for Dubai-issued visas.
How can I extend my UAE entry permit?
Apply online via the ICP website or Smart App for a 30-day extension.
What is required to renew a UAE residence visa?
A valid medical fitness certificate, Emirates ID, and a completed renewal application through the ICP portal.
Can unused UAE visit visas be extended or canceled?
Yes, unused visas can be extended or canceled through the immigration portal based on the latest regulations.
Priya, a Digital Marketer and Content Writer with 4 years of experience, creates valuable guides for UAE expatriates at UAEFresher. A passionate traveler, she has visited the UAE numerous times, bringing her love for exploration into her informative content for newcomers and residents.