Process for Applying for a Dubai Residence Visa – Complete 2025 Guide by Globexa Immigration
Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for work, study, business, and family living. If you’re planning to live in Dubai for an extended period, you will need a Dubai residence visa. This visa allows you to legally reside in the UAE and enjoy numerous benefits such as working, opening bank accounts, sponsoring family, and more.
At Globexa Immigration, the best visa counselor in Panipat and trusted immigration consultant in Haryana, we have helped hundreds of clients successfully obtain their Dubai residence visas. In this detailed guide, we will explain the step-by-step process for applying for a Dubai residence visa, the documents required, costs, and tips to ensure a smooth application.
1. What is a Dubai Residence Visa?
A Dubai residence visa is a permit that allows foreigners to live legally in Dubai for a duration typically ranging from 1 to 3 years, depending on the visa type. Unlike tourist visas, residence visas enable you to:
Work legally in Dubai
Rent or buy property
Open bank accounts
Sponsor family members (spouse, children, sometimes parents)
Apply for a UAE driving license
Access healthcare and education services
Whether you’re moving to Dubai for employment, investment, study, or family reasons, securing the right residence visa is crucial.
2. Who Can Apply for a Dubai Residence Visa?
Dubai offers several residence visa categories, including:
Employment Visa – For those sponsored by a UAE employer
Investor/Partner Visa – For business owners or investors in Dubai
Family Visa – Sponsored by a resident family member
Student Visa – For enrolled students at Dubai educational institutions
Freelance/Remote Work Visa – For freelancers and digital nomads
Retirement Visa – For retirees aged 55+ meeting financial criteria
Golden Visa – Long-term visa (5 or 10 years) for investors, professionals, and exceptional talents
3. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Dubai Residence Visa
At Globexa Immigration, your best immigration services in Panipat, we streamline the visa process to make it hassle-free.
Step 1: Get an Entry Permit (If Outside UAE)
Before entering Dubai, you need an entry permit or eVisa issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
This permit allows legal entry into the UAE for residence purposes
Valid for 60 days
Typically applied by your sponsor (employer, educational institution, or family member)
Step 2: Medical Fitness Test
After arriving in Dubai, you must undergo a medical fitness test at a GDRFA-approved health center.
Includes blood tests and a chest X-ray
Screens for communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis
Passing this test is mandatory before visa approval
Step 3: Apply for Emirates ID
Applying for an Emirates ID is compulsory for all residents.
You will provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo)
Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP)
Required for all official transactions and access to public services
Step 4: Purchase Health Insurance
Dubai law mandates all residents to have health insurance.
Some employers provide insurance; otherwise, individuals must purchase plans
Insurance plans vary in price, starting from around AED 600 per year
Step 5: Visa Stamping
The final stage is visa stamping on your passport.
Your sponsor will submit your passport and all documents to GDRFA
Once approved, the visa is stamped, granting you legal residence status
Your visa validity depends on your visa type (usually 1-3 years)
4. Documents Required for Dubai Residence Visa
General Documents (All Categories)
Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Passport-sized photos with white background
Entry permit or eVisa
Emirates ID application form
Medical fitness test report
Health insurance certificate
Additional Documents by Visa Type
Employment Visa: Job offer letter, employment contract, company trade license
Investor Visa: Business license, ownership documents, financial statements
Family Visa: Marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, sponsor’s salary certificate, tenancy contract
Student Visa: Admission letter, academic transcripts, proof of tuition payment
Our experienced team at Globexa Immigration will provide you with a customized checklist to ensure no document is missed.
4. How Long is the Dubai Residence Visa Valid?
Employment, Family, and Investor Visas: Typically 2 or 3 years, renewable
Student and Freelance Visas: Usually 1 year, renewable annually
Golden Visa: Valid for 5 or 10 years with multiple renewals
5. Dubai Residence Visa Fees and Costs in 2025
| Service | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Entry Permit | 500–1000 |
| Medical Tests | 300–700 |
| Emirates ID | 370–1070 |
| Visa Stamping | 500–1000 |
| Total | 3,000–7,000 AED |
Costs vary based on visa type and urgency. We offer transparent pricing and flexible payment options.
6. Can You Sponsor Family Members on a Dubai Residence Visa?
Yes. Residents earning at least AED 4,000/month (or AED 3,000 + accommodation) can sponsor:
Spouse
Children
Parents (under specific conditions)
You must provide proof of relationship, income, and tenancy contract. At Globexa Immigration, we handle family sponsorship applications smoothly.
7. What is the Dubai Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit (5 or 10 years) for:
Investors with property or business investments of AED 2 million+
Highly skilled professionals, scientists, and researchers
Outstanding students and entrepreneurs
The Golden Visa allows residency without a local sponsor, providing greater security and benefits.
8. Why Choose Globexa Immigration for Your Dubai Visa?
Best Immigration Services in Panipat and Haryana: Trusted by hundreds for Dubai visa assistance
Personalized Support: Tailored document preparation and application strategies
Fast & Reliable Processing: We expedite entry permits, medical tests, and visa stamping
Affordable & Transparent: No hidden charges or surprises
Expert Visa Counselors: Dedicated professionals guide you at every step
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does the Dubai residence visa process take?
Usually 1–3 weeks from entry permit to visa stamping.
Q2: Can I switch from a tourist visa to a residence visa while in Dubai?
Yes, provided your tourist visa is valid. You can apply for an entry permit or residence visa while in the UAE.
Q3: Can Globexa Immigration assist with freelance or Golden visa applications?
Absolutely. We provide full services for all Dubai visa categories including freelance and Golden visas.
