1. UAE Tourist Visa
Validity: 30 or 60 days (single/multiple entry). Eligibility: Tourists, visitors, or short-term business travelers. Requirements: • Passport (6+ months validity) • Passport-sized photo (white background) • Confirmed flight tickets • Hotel booking or sponsor letter • Travel insurance (recommended) Processing Time: 3–5 business days. Cost: AED 300–800 (varies by duration/entry type).
2. UAE Visit Visa (Short-Term)
Validity: 90 days (single/multiple entry). Purpose: Family visits, medical treatment, or exploration. Requirements: • Sponsor (UAE resident/employer) • Passport copy • Proof of relationship (for family visits) • Bank statements (if self-sponsored) Extension: Up to 90 days (additional fees apply).
3. UAE Work Visa (Employment Visa)
Validity: 2–3 years (renewable). Eligibility: Employed by a UAE-based company. Process: 1. Entry Permit: Employer applies via MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources). 2. Residency Visa: Issued after medical tests & Emirates ID. 3. Labor Card: Final step for legal employment. Cost: AED 2,000–5,000 (varies by company size/role).
4. UAE Residency Visa
Types: • Family Visa: For spouses, children, or parents (sponsor must earn AED 4,000+ monthly). • Investor Visa: For property owners (AED 1M+ investment). • Retirement Visa: For expats aged 55+ with savings/income (AED 20,000+/month). Validity: 2–5 years (renewable). Note: Residency visas require Emirates ID and medical insurance.
5. UAE Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)
Validity: 5–10 years (renewable). Eligibility: • Investors (AED 2M+ in property/business) • Entrepreneurs (AED 500K+ startup) • Specialized talents (doctors, scientists, artists) • Outstanding students (top universities) • Humanitarian pioneers Benefits: • No sponsor required • 100% business ownership • Long-term residency for family
6. UAE Green Visa (Freelance/Self-Employment)
Validity: 5 years. Eligibility: • Freelancers (tech, media, education sectors) • Self-employed professionals • Skilled workers (without UAE employer) Requirements: • Proof of income (AED 360,000+/year) • Bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma • Freelance permit from UAE authorities
7. UAE Transit Visa
Validity: 48–96 hours (free for some airlines). Eligibility: Travelers with layovers in UAE. Requirements: • Confirmed onward ticket • Passport (3+ months validity) • Visa for final destination (if required) Note: Not required for passengers staying airside (no exit from airport).
8. UAE Student Visa
Validity: 1 year (renewable). Eligibility: Enrolled in UAE universities/schools. Requirements: • Admission letter • Proof of tuition payment • Sponsor (parent/guardian if under 18) • Medical insurance Part-Time Work: Allowed with university approval (max 15 hrs/week).
9. UAE Remote Work Visa
Validity: 1 year. Eligibility: Employees of foreign companies working remotely. Requirements: • Monthly income of $3,500+ • Employment contract (1+ year) • Health insurance • Passport (6+ months validity) Cost: ~AED 1,500 (excluding medical/Emirates ID fees).
10. UAE Mission Visa
Validity: 90 days (single entry). Purpose: Short-term assignments (e.g., project work, training). Requirements: • Invitation letter from UAE company • Passport copy • Proof of qualifications Note: Cannot be converted to a work visa.
Visa Extension & Overstay Fines
• Tourist Visa Extension: AED 600–850 (30-day extension). • Overstay Fines: AED 50/day (first 6 months), AED 100/day thereafter. • Grace Period: 30 days for residency visa cancellations.
Key Notes
• Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of 80+ countries (e.g., USA, UK, EU, Australia). • E-Visa: Apply online via ICA Smart Services or GDRFA. • Medical Tests: Required for residency visas (HIV, TB, hepatitis). • Emirates ID: Mandatory for all residents (linked to visa). • Visa Cancellation: Must be done before exiting UAE to avoid bans.
Where to Apply
• Online: ICA UAE Smart Services, GDRFA Dubai • In-Person: Typing centers, Amer centers (Dubai), or UAE embassies abroad. • Through Sponsors: Employers, hotels, or family members can apply on behalf.