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             3. UAE Residence Visa 2026 | Costs, Documents & Process

            UAE Residence Visa 2026 | Costs, Documents & Process

      Visa Dubai
      Kajol Kanojia 17 Mar 2026 10 minutes

          Table of Contents

         1. What is a UAE Residence Visa?
         2. Types of UAE Residence Visas
         3. Required Documents for UAE Residence Visa
         4. How to Apply for a UAE Residence Visa?
         5. Benefits of having a UAE residence visa
         6. What is the Cost of a UAE Residence Visa in 2026
         7. UAE Residence Visa Renewal in 2026
         8. UAE Entry Permit vs. Residence Visa: Key Differences
         9. Get Your UAE Residence Visa with Shuraa India

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            Table of Contents

           1. What is a UAE Residence Visa?
           2. Types of UAE Residence Visas
           3. Required Documents for UAE Residence Visa
           4. How to Apply for a UAE Residence Visa?
           5. Benefits of having a UAE residence visa
           6. What is the Cost of a UAE Residence Visa in 2026
           7. UAE Residence Visa Renewal in 2026
           8. UAE Entry Permit vs. Residence Visa: Key Differences
           9. Get Your UAE Residence Visa with Shuraa India

          The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a top destination for expats looking to live and work in a dynamic environment. With its booming economy, tax-free incentives , and year-round sunshine, it’s no wonder many dream of calling the UAE home.

          One of the key attractions for many expats is the opportunity to obtain a UAE residence visa , which opens up a host of benefits, including the ability to reside and work in the country for an extended period of time, access to world-class healthcare and education facilities, and the potential to sponsor family members.

          If you’re considering a move to the UAE for work, retirement, or simply a change of scenery, understanding the residence visa process is essential.

          What is a UAE Residence Visa?

          A residency visa in the UAE is a document that allows foreign individuals to live and work in the country for a longer period, typically ranging from 2 to 10 years. It’s different from a visitor visa , which is for shorter stays and cannot be used for work or business.

          Unlike some countries, most residency visas in the UAE require a sponsor. This sponsor can be:

            * Employer : For employment visas, the company you’ll be working for acts as your sponsor. They initiate the visa application process and handle the paperwork.
            * UAE Resident : If you’re not tied to a specific job, a UAE resident can sponsor your visa. This is typically seen with family members, where a husband sponsors his wife’s visa and vice versa.

          The sponsor system essentially takes responsibility for your immigration status. It assures the government that you have a reason for being in the country and someone to vouch for you.

          There are exceptions, though. The UAE recently introduced a new visa option called the Green Visa, which allows freelancers, self-employed individuals, and even some skilled employees to sponsor themselves for a five-year residency visa. This eliminates the need for a company or a UAE citizen as a sponsor.

          Types of UAE Residence Visas

          There are various types of UAE residence visas to cater to different purposes of stay. Here are some of the most common ones:

          1. Employment Visa

          This is the most common type of visa, issued to individuals who have secured a job with a UAE-based company. The employer acts as the sponsor and handles most of the visa application process. A 2-year employment visa in Dubai generally ranges between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000. To know the exact cost, consult your employer .

              Not sure which to choose? Read: Business visa vs work permit in the UAE — key differences explained.

          2. Investment (Investor) Visa

          The UAE Investment Visa (long-term residency) is for foreigners who make a significant investment in the UAE . This visa is valid for a longer period than other resident visas (up to ten years) and does not require a sponsor if you qualify.

          Read More about How to get an investor visa in Dubai

          3. Family Visa

          This visa is reserved for close family members of UAE citizens or international residents.

          4. Student Visa

          This visa is for international students enrolled in a UAE-based educational institution. The university or educational institute acts as the sponsor for the visa application.

          5. Retirement Visa

          This visa is for individuals aged 55 and above with a good monthly income (around AED 20,000 or more) to comfortably retire in the UAE. They can also be sponsored by a UAE resident child.

          6. Business Visa

          As a part of the UAE’s visa system, a business visa is a residency permit that allows foreign investors to work, stay, and run their business operations.

          Read our complete guide: How to apply for a Dubai business visa — eligibility, documents and fees explained.

          7. Green Visa

          This is a relatively new visa category. It is a five-year renewable visa aimed at attracting skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Under the Green Visa program, individuals can sponsor themselves without the need for an employer.

          8. Golden Visa

          This is a long-term visa (either 5 or 10 years) aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and specialists in specific fields.

              See also: UAE Golden Visa salary and investment requirements — full eligibility criteria for 2026.

          Required Documents for UAE Residence Visa

          The following is the list of documents that you require for your UAE Residency visa :

            * Completed the UAE Visa Application Form
            * Original Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity remaining)
            * Passport-Sized Photographs
            * Proof of Medical Fitness
            * UAE Health Insurance Plan
            * Company registration documents — required for investor/business visa applicants
            * Property Ownership Documents (For property investor visa)
            * If you are changing employers or sponsors, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) may also be required as part of your application.
                  Use our UAE business compliance checklist to track all required documents and avoid application delays.

          How to Apply for a UAE Residence Visa?

          Here is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Dubai residence visa in 2026:

          1. Determine your eligibility and visa type

          Research the different types of UAE residency visas to identify the one that best suits your purpose. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen visa category.

          2. Secure a Sponsor (if required)

          Most UAE residency visas require a sponsor who takes legal responsibility for your stay. This can be your employer, a UAE national relative, or a university. Exceptions include the Investor Visa and the Green Visa, which allow for self-sponsorship, typically through free zone company formation or qualifying investments.

          3. Apply for Entry Permit

          Once you have a sponsor and a confirmed visa category, your sponsor or a visa processing agency will typically initiate the application for an entry permit. This permit allows you to enter the UAE for residency processing.

          4. Medical Examination and Emirates ID

          After entering the UAE with the entry permit, you’ll need to undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical facility. You’ll also apply for an Emirates ID , a mandatory national identification card for all UAE residents, required for banking, driving, and government services.

          5. Visa Application and Collection

          Once you have the entry permit, medical test results, and Emirates ID application submitted, your sponsor can proceed with the formal residency visa application. This will involve submitting the required documents through typing centres or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) channels.

          6. Visa Approval and Collection

          After processing, the authorities will notify you of the visa application decision. Upon approval, you can collect your Emirates ID and officially become a UAE resident. You can also track your application progress — see our guide on UAE visa status check by passport number .

          Benefits of having a UAE residence visa

          A UAE Residence Visa is mandatory to live and work in the country legally. Individuals intending to do business have to apply for a residence visa in the UAE. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the benefits:

          1. Easy to open a bank account

          If you want to open a bank account in Dubai from India , a UAE residence visa and an Emirates ID are mandatory prerequisites. Nevertheless, you need to have a UAE Residence Visa to procure an Emirates ID. It allows you to open a non-resident bank account.

          2. Access to financial facilities

          By having a residence visa, you can avail many financial facilities in the UAE. For instance, you can easily apply for a car loan, personal loan, or mortgage without any potential legal troubles. Residence visa holders can also explore wider investment opportunities in Dubai from India — including property, equities, and business ventures.

          Indians who become UAE residents may also qualify for NRI tax status — read our UAE vs India taxation comparison for the full financial picture.

          3. Easy to obtain a driver’s license

          A driver’s license could be one of the basic requirements for individuals moving to the UAE. A residence visa in the UAE enables the conversion of a current license into a UAE driver’s license for certain nationalities, while others can take driving lessons and a test to get their license in the UAE. Whatever the scenario is, a UAE residence visa is mandatory to get a driver’s license.

          4. Access to healthcare and educational services

          Health insurance is mandatory, especially when you move to another country. The cost of healthcare services can become a financial burden without this facility. In Dubai, the residents must have health insurance to cover their medical expenses, which is possible through a UAE residence visa.

          Likewise, the residence visa holders can also sponsor their children, enroll them in any of the leading institutions, and provide them with the best quality education in the country.

          5. Dependants’ sponsorship

          The UAE residence visa holders are allowed to bring their spouses, parents, and children into the country, provided they meet certain salary conditions specified by the authorities. In addition, they can also sponsor visas for their maids, drivers, or other domestic workers as well.

          Looking for longer-term security? The UAE Golden Visa offers 5 or 10-year residency with no sponsor required.

          What is the Cost of a UAE Residence Visa in 2026

          UAE residence visa fees in 2026 can be anywhere near AED 100 Application Fees. The UAE residence visa cost depends on several significant parameters, such as the applicant’s location, the length of their intended stay, the insurance required for family members, etc. For two years, the UAE Residence Visa fee is AED 3,990*.

          Based on those factors, below is a specified list of the approximate Dubai residence visa costs.

            * The cheapest 2-year residence Visa in Dubai costs you around AED 3,500* without medical insurance and AED 4,200* with medical insurance.
            * The 3-year residence visa in Dubai costs for applicants in Dubai without insurance will be approximately AED 3,700, and AED 5,472 with insurance. (Expired)
            * For investors Visa – Golden Visa (10 years), the cost is generally around AED 5,000* for application processing + medical test fees + typing centre charges.
            * For the Retirement Visa, the cost is approximately. AED 3,000* for application processing + medical test fees + typing centre charges .

          Remember, these are estimates, and the actual costs can vary. It’s always best to check with the official UAE authorities or consult with one of our experts at Shuraa India for the most up-to-date fee structure for your specific situation.

          Note: If you’re setting up a company, an immigration establishment card is an additional mandatory cost — get our guide on fees and the process.

          UAE Residence Visa Renewal in 2026

          UAE residence visa renewal fees in 2026 range from AED 3,000* to AED 7,000*, depending on application and issuance fees, typing centre charges, Emirates ID renewal, medical insurance, and mandatory Knowledge and Innovation Dirham costs. You can renew your UAE residency visa as long as it’s the type that allows renewal. Exceptions include visit visas or temporary work permits. It’s crucial to initiate the renewal process before your visa expires. There might be penalties for late renewals .

          The general process for UAE residency visa renewal involves:

            * You or your sponsor (except Green Visa holders) will start the process by contacting the relevant authorities or a typing centre.
            * Prepare the required documents (passport, Emirates ID, visa application form, proof of income/employment)
            * Pay the associated fees.
            * Medical Test (if required)
            * Emirates ID Renewal

          Once submitted, the authorities will process your application. Upon approval, you can collect your renewed visa and Emirates ID.

          After submitting your renewal, track your application using our guide: how to check UAE visa status by passport number.

          UAE Entry Permit vs. Residence Visa: Key Differences

          UAE Entry Permit allows you to enter the UAE for a specific purpose. It’s valid for a short duration, typically 1 month for most visa types. With an entry permit, you cannot legally reside or work in the UAE. It’s meant for activities like finalizing your residence visa application, attending events, short-term work projects, or medical treatment.

          Whereas the UAE Residence Visa allows you to live and work in the UAE for an extended period. Residence visas typically range in validity from 2 years to 10 years. With a residence visa, you can legally reside, work, and sponsor family members (depending on the visa type).

          Entry permits are generally not renewable, but a residence visa can be renewed upon meeting specific requirements and paying the associated fees.

          Get your UAE residency visa with expert help — free consultation .

          Get Your UAE Residence Visa with Shuraa India

          Living and working in the UAE is exciting, and a residence visa makes it a reality. But getting that visa can be complicated. There’s a lot of paperwork, medical checks, and legal stuff to follow. To avoid any delays or mistakes, it’s wise to get help from an expert.

          That’s where Shuraa India comes in. We have years of experience helping people and businesses secure visas and set up shop in the UAE. We’ll handle the complexities so you can focus on your dreams in the Emirates. Shuraa India has processed 40,000+ UAE investor visas for Indian nationals — get guided , expert visa support from day one

                About the author

                Kajol Kanojia

                Kajol is a skilled writer and UAE corporate advisor with deep expertise in business consulting. She specializes in guiding entrepreneurs, simplifying UAE business setup, and navigating local regulations, market trends, and cultural nuances. Through her insightful blogs and practical advice, Kajol helps Indian and global entrepreneurs establish and grow their businesses in the UAE efficiently and successfully.

                View all posts

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