UAE Visa: A Complete Guide for Foreigners

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a global business hub and a top destination for expatriates, tourists, and investors. Whether you plan to visit for a short stay, work, start a business, or retire, understanding the UAE visa process is essential. This guide outlines the different types of visas, their requirements, and the application process for foreigners who want to visit or live in the UAE.

Types of UAE Visas

1. Tourist Visa

Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter the UAE visa-free or obtain a Visa on Arrival for stays ranging from 14 to 90 days.

Travelers from visa-required countries must apply for a UAE Tourist Visa before arrival.

Types of UAE Tourist Visas:

• 30-Day Tourist Visa: Single or multiple entry, extendable
• 60-Day Tourist Visa: Single or multiple entry, extendable
• 90-Day Long-Term Tourist Visa: Single or multiple entry

Requirements for a UAE Tourist Visa:

• A passport valid for at least six months
• Completed visa application form
• Return flight ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Visa fee (typically $50–$300 USD, depending on the duration and type)

Visa Extension: Tourist visas can be extended twice for 30 days each without leaving the country.

Check Visa-Free Entry Eligibility

2. UAE Visa on Arrival

Citizens of more than 70 countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at UAE airports.

Visa on Arrival Options:

• 30-Day Visa on Arrival: Extendable for another 30 days
• 90-Day Visa on Arrival: For select nationalities, non-extendable

Requirements for a Visa on Arrival:

• A passport valid for at least six months
• Return flight ticket
• Hotel booking or address of stay
• Visa fee (if applicable)

More on Visa on Arrival

3. UAE Work Visa

Foreigners who want to work legally in the UAE must obtain a Work Visa, which is sponsored by a UAE-based employer.

Types of UAE Work Visas:

• Employment Visa: For skilled workers employed by a company
• Domestic Worker Visa: For household staff
• Freelance Visa: For self-employed professionals

Requirements for a Work Visa:

• A job offer from a UAE-based company
• A work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
• A valid passport
• Medical fitness test
• Background check
• Visa fee (varies by profession and visa type)

A Work Visa is initially valid for one to two years and can be renewed. Employees must obtain an Emirates ID and register for health insurance.

More on Work Visas

4. UAE Residency Visas

Foreigners who want to stay in the UAE long-term must apply for a Residency Visa, which can be obtained through employment, business investment, property ownership, or retirement.

Types of Residency Visas:

• Employment-Based Residency Visa: Sponsored by an employer
• Investor Visa: For business owners and entrepreneurs
• Property Owner Visa: For foreign investors who own property worth at least AED 750,000 ($204,000 USD)
• Retirement Visa: For retirees over 55 years old
• Family Sponsorship Visa: For spouses and children of UAE residents

Residency visas are typically valid for two to three years and renewable. Holders must apply for an Emirates ID and register for health insurance.

More on UAE Residency Visas

5. UAE Golden Visa (10-Year Residency)

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa granted to investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and exceptional students. It allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE without a sponsor.

Eligibility for a UAE Golden Visa:

• Investors: Business owners with investments of at least AED 2 million ($545,000 USD)
• Real Estate Investors: Property owners with investments of at least AED 2 million
• Highly Skilled Professionals: Doctors, engineers, researchers, and specialists earning at least AED 30,000 per month
• Entrepreneurs: Startups and business founders with government approval
• Outstanding Students: Top-performing students from UAE-accredited universities

Golden Visa holders enjoy benefits such as no need for a sponsor, multiple entry permits, and the ability to sponsor family members.

More on the UAE Golden Visa

6. UAE Retirement Visa

The Retirement Visa allows foreigners aged 55 and above to live in the UAE for five years, renewable.

Eligibility for a Retirement Visa:

• Own property worth AED 1 million ($272,000 USD)
• Have savings of at least AED 1 million
• Receive a monthly pension of at least AED 20,000 ($5,400 USD)

Retirement visa holders can reside in the UAE without working, but they can own businesses and investments.

More on UAE Retirement Visas

7. UAE Freelancer Visa

The Freelancer Visa is ideal for self-employed professionals, remote workers, and digital nomads. It is issued through free zones like Dubai Media City, Abu Dhabi Twofour54, and Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone.

Requirements for a Freelancer Visa:

• Proof of experience in a relevant industry
• Freelance permit from a UAE Free Zone Authority
• Bank statements showing financial stability
• Valid passport and health insurance

Freelancer Visas are valid for one to two years and allow individuals to work legally for multiple clients.

More on Freelancer Visas

8. UAE Student Visa

Foreign students studying in the UAE must obtain a Student Visa, sponsored by an accredited university.

Requirements for a Student Visa:

• Admission letter from a recognized UAE institution
• Proof of tuition payment and financial means
• Medical fitness certificate
• Health insurance

Student visas are valid for one year and renewable for the duration of the study program. Outstanding students may qualify for five-year residency visas.

More on Student Visas

UAE Visa Application Process

1. Determine the visa type based on your purpose of stay.
2. Apply online or through a UAE embassy, airline, hotel, or local sponsor.
3. Submit required documents (passport, proof of funds, application form, supporting evidence).
4. Pay the visa fee (varies by visa type).
5. Wait for processing, typically 3–10 working days.
6. If approved, receive your visa and enter the UAE.

For residency visas, applicants must complete medical tests, Emirates ID registration, and biometric verification upon arrival.

Apply for a UAE Visa Online

Visa Extensions and Overstaying Penalties

Tourist visas can be extended twice for 30 days each. Residency visas must be renewed before expiration.

Overstaying fines:

• Tourists: AED 50 per day
• Residents: AED 25 per day after the grace period

Overstays beyond 90 days may result in deportation or a ban from re-entering the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work in the UAE on a Tourist Visa?
No, you must obtain a Work Visa before starting employment.

Does buying property in the UAE grant residency?
Yes, investing at least AED 750,000 ($204,000 USD) qualifies for a 2-year residency visa.

Can I apply for a UAE visa online?
Yes, most visas can be applied for through ICA or GDRFA portals.

Can I get UAE citizenship?
Yes, but it is rare and requires government approval.

Conclusion

The UAE offers a wide range of visa options for tourists, workers, investors, and retirees. Whether you plan to visit for a short stay or move permanently, understanding the UAE visa process ensures a hassle-free experience. Always check for updated visa policies before applying.

Our Directory

Use our database to find visa facilitators, real estate agents, and recommended professionals. You will also have the ability to book a time to meet with our expats on the ground. These are individuals just like you who have gone through the immigration process and have been living in your desired country or city.