Your UAE Residence Visa for Working: How It Works

Step by step

1. 1

   Know who a work residence visa covers

   A residence visa is the document that lets you live in the UAE while you work. According to recent changes, a residence visa can also be issued for 5 and 10 years, subject to certain conditions. Check your own situation against the authority's current criteria.

2. 2

   Take the medical fitness test

   A residence visa requires applicants who are 18 and above to undergo a medical test to prove that they are medically fit. Treat this as a standard part of getting your visa and book it early.

3. 3

   Renew before your visa expires

   Your sponsor, usually your employer, must renew your residence visa before it expires. Keep track of the expiry date and start the process ahead of time so there is no gap in your status.

   Documents:Residence visa
4. 4

   If you have been outside the UAE for a long spell

   UAE residents whose residence visa expired as a result of staying outside the country for more than six months for study, work or treatment can apply for a permit to enter the UAE. This entry permit is meant for residents staying outside the UAE for over 6 months.

   Documents:Entry permit
5. 5

   Mind the grace period and overstay fees

   UAE residents are granted longer flexible grace periods that reach up to 6 months, according to resident category, to stay in the country after the residence permit is cancelled or expired. According to the new rules, visit, tourist and residence visa overstaying fees have standardised at AED 50 per day, so do not let the grace period lapse.

6. 6

   Cancel properly if you leave for good

   If you have a residence visa sponsored either by a family member or by your employer, and you decide to leave the country permanently, your residence visa must be cancelled officially. Normally, only the sponsor can cancel your residence visa, so arrange this with them before you go.

Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.

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