Dubai offers a wide range of residence visa options designed to accommodate professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, students, and families who wish to live in the UAE legally. Each visa category has its own purpose, eligibility criteria, and documentation requirements, allowing residents from all backgrounds to choose the right option according to their personal or professional goals. Understanding these categories in detail helps applicants avoid confusion, delays, and unnecessary expenses during the application process.
1. Employment (Work) Residence Visa
The Employment Visa is one of the most common types of residence visas in Dubai. It allows foreign professionals to live and work legally in the UAE under the sponsorship of their employer.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The applicant must have a valid job offer or contract from a registered UAE company.
- The sponsoring company must apply for the visa on behalf of the employee through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and GDRFA.
- The applicant should pass a medical fitness test and hold valid health insurance.
Documents Required:
- Passport copy (with at least six months’ validity)
- Passport-size photos (white background)
- Attested educational certificates (for skilled roles)
- Offer letter or employment contract
- Entry permit copy (if already issued)
- Emirates ID application form
Medical test report
Validity & Renewal:
Employment visas are typically valid for two years and can be renewed upon continued employment with the same company.
2. Family (Dependent) Residence Visa
The Family Visa allows UAE residents to bring their close family members—spouse, children, and sometimes parents to live with them in Dubai.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
- Minimum salary requirement is AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 with accommodation provided).
- The sponsor must provide suitable accommodation (Ejari or property deed).
- The family relationship must be proven with attested documents.
Documents Required:
- Sponsor’s passport and Emirates ID copy
- Marriage and birth certificates (attested)
- Tenancy contract or property ownership proof
- Latest salary certificate or labor contract
- Medical test results for dependents above 18 years
Validity & Renewal:
Family visas are valid for two to three years, depending on the sponsor’s visa type, and can be renewed along with the sponsor’s visa.
3. Investor or Partner Residence Visa
This visa is designed for individuals who invest in a business or company in Dubai. It provides long-term residency benefits and greater control over personal or corporate ventures.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The applicant must own or partner in a business registered in the UAE mainland or free zone.
- A minimum investment of AED 72,000 is generally required (varies by jurisdiction).
- The investor must hold a valid trade license and Memorandum of Association (MOA).
Documents Required:
- Valid trade license
- MOA and share certificate
- Bank statement showing investment capital
- Passport copy and photos
- Entry permit copy
Validity & Renewal:
The investor visa is usually valid for three years and renewable upon continuation of business operations.
4. Property Owner (Real Estate) Visa
For individuals who purchase property in Dubai, the Property Owner Visa provides the right to reside in the UAE based on real estate investment.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The property value must be at least AED 1 million.
- The property must be fully owned (not mortgaged) and located in a freehold area.
- The property must be residential, not commercial.
Documents Required:
- Title deed from Dubai Land Department
- Passport copy
- Health insurance
- Proof of income or bank statement
Validity & Renewal:
The visa is typically valid for two years, renewable as long as the property remains under ownership.
5. Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)
The Golden Visa is one of the UAE’s most prestigious residence permits. It offers 5-year or 10-year residency to investors, scientists, professionals, and outstanding students without requiring a local sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Real estate investors with properties worth over AED 2 million.
- Entrepreneurs owning or partnering in successful UAE businesses.
- Professionals earning over AED 30,000/month in specialized fields like medicine, engineering, or IT.
- Exceptional students and researchers with government approval.
Documents Required:
- Proof of qualifications or business ownership
- Valid Emirates ID (if already a resident)
- Investment or income proof
- Passport and visa copies
- Recommendation or approval letters (for talent categories)
Validity & Renewal:
Golden Visas are valid for 5 or 10 years, automatically renewable if eligibility continues.
6. Student and Retirement Visas
- Student Visa: Issued to international students studying at accredited UAE universities. Requires a university sponsorship, a valid admission letter, and proof of financial capability.
- Retirement Visa: Available to residents aged 55 and above, with a property worth AED 1 million or savings of AED 1 million, or income of AED 20,000 per month.
Both categories allow holders to live legally in Dubai while pursuing their educational or post-retirement lifestyle goals.
Dubai’s residence visa system offers flexibility to match diverse lifestyles, whether you’re a working professional, business investor, property owner, or family sponsor. Choosing the right visa type ensures compliance with UAE regulations while securing your long-term stay in the country. For accurate documentation, renewals, or personalized visa guidance, SH Typing Center provides expert assistance through every step of your Dubai residence visa process.