Residency Visa Archives

Types of Residence Visas in UAE: Which One is Right for You?

The types of residence visa in UAE allow foreigners to establish themselves in the country according to their particular conditions. In this case, there is a wide variety of visas ranging from work visas to retirement visas. Each of them has its particular requirements and conditions to be able to aspire to obtain one.

In this article, we will show you what the characteristics of each of the visas offered by local authorities are. Likewise, we will answer some of the most common questions to clear up your doubts in this regard.

Tourist Visa: Exploring Short-term Stay Options

Although it is not among the types of residence visa in UAE, it is possible to visit the country with a tourist visa. In this case, it is for those who are not eligible for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry into the country. Citizens of any country are eligible to obtain a tourist visa if they meet the other conditions.

For example, women under 18 years of age cannot apply for this type of visa, only if they are traveling with their parents. The UAE tourist visa, which is valid for 5 years, allows the holder to enter the country multiple times. Additionally, you will be able to stay in the country for 90 days, which you can renew for the same amount of time.

To apply for a tourist visa, people from any country must meet the following requirements:

A minimum balance of USD 4,000 (approximately AED 14,690) in the bank for the last 6 months.
Have valid medical insurance for the Emirates.
A plane ticket to the country and one out.
Proof of stay in the country, either in a private home or in a hotel.

Likewise, applicants must submit the documents that we will mention below:

Color photo
Passport copy
Valid health insurance
Proof of possessing the necessary financial qualification
Trip program
Journey continuation ticket

Employment Visa: Navigating Work Opportunities in the UAE

A residence visa in UAE that allows you to live and work in the country is a work visa. However, this visa requires that a company in the nation sponsors you offering you a signed contract. The company that must sponsor the applicant may be located on the mainland, in a free zone, or be government-owned.

The company is responsible for carrying out all the procedures and paying the fees for the work visa application. Below, you can see the documents that the company and the applicant must submit to the authorities:

Business license from the company that wants to hire the employee
Company Immigration Card
Business employment card
Employee passport
Color photo on a white background of the potential employee
Educational certificates
Previous residence visa if you have had one
Emirates ID if you had it
Valid health insurance

On the other hand, companies owned by the government or established in a Free Zone need the following additional documents:

Online application
Office lease agreement
Copy of the offer or appointment letter

This is one of the types of residence visa in UAE that has variable validity depending on the characteristics. The validity of the employment visa in a continental company is 2 years and in a free zone or government company it is 3 years. In both cases, the visa is renewable for the same period and the application must be made by the employer.

Investor Visa: Investing in the Future of the UAE

Another of the types of residence visa UAE is the one that can be obtained by those who wish to do business in the nation. In this case, the applicant must have a company in the UAE or own shares in a local business. Thus, the visa holder can live and work in the country legally for the duration of the visa.

The residence visa for investors, or investor visa, is valid for 3 years with the possibility of renewal. This visa requires the documentation that we will list below if the application is for a company on the continent:

Company Business License
Immigration Establishment Card
Memorandum of Association for Limited Liability Companies (LLC)
List of partners for an LLC
Local service agreements
Partnership contracts
Photo on a white background and passport of the investor
Bank statement
Residence visa and Emirates ID (in case of previous residence)

These requirements plus a certificate of incorporation are necessary for investments in Free Zones.

Family Residence Visa: Bringing Your Loved Ones Closer

This is one of the types of residence visa in UAE that an expatriate with a residence visa in the country can sponsor. However, this type of visa is only for immediate family members, which includes spouses, children, and parents. Additionally, applicants for this type of visa must meet the following requirements for sponsorship:

Investors must pay AED 3,000 for each family member they wish to sponsor.
Employees in the UAE must have a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 300 plus monthly rent.
Parents must have a monthly income that should not be less than AED 20000. However, in case of the death of one of the parents, you must submit the death certificate.

Likewise, sponsors of the family visa must submit the following documents:

Copy of passport
Copy of residence visa
Original Emirates ID
Bank statement

On the other hand, dependents who aspire to obtain a family visa must submit the documents that we will mention below:

Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
Photograph on a white background that must be the same size as the passport
Spouses must provide a marriage certificate
In the case of children, the sponsor must present the birth certificate

The validity of a family visa is commonly 2 years but can be for the same duration as the visa of the sponsor. Furthermore, among the types of visa in UAE, this depends on the visa of the sponsor. Therefore, if the sponsor cancels the visa; he/she must also cancel the family visa of his/her dependents.

Student Visa: Pursuing Education in the UAE

Foreign students may be granted a residence visa in UAE if they meet the requirements. In this way, they can enroll in one of the educational institutions in the country by legally residing. The documents include those common to the different types of visa, including the following:

Copy of passport with at least 6 months of validity
A photograph of the same size as the passport with a white background
Visa receipts
Tuition fees
Copy of admission letter from the relevant educational institution

Among the types of residence visa in UAE, this is one of the least valid, only 1 year. Nevertheless, students can request annual renewal for the duration of their studies. However, there are certain characteristics that a student can meet to receive a 5-year student visa, which are:

Have a grade of 95% if you are a high school student
Have a GPA (Grade Point Average ) of at least 3.75 for undergraduates

Retirement Visa: Enjoying Your Golden Years in the UAE

Another of the types of visa in UAE is the retirement visa for citizens who are over 55 years old. Conversely, you must meet one of the eligibility criteria to be able to request this document. The mandatory criteria that must be met to receive it are detailed below:

You must own a real estate investment in a property worth a minimum of AED 2 million.
Have at least AED 1 million on savings.
Have continuous income of a minimum value of AED 20000 per month.
Combine property ownership and savings worth at least AED 2 million.

On the other hand, as with other types of residence visa in UAE, applicants must submit the following documents:

Passport of the applicant
Marriage certificate for applicant couples
Current residence visa
Emirates ID

Likewise, it requires one of the following additional documents for particular cases:

Real estate investment
Copy of the property title
Proof of sufficient savings
Proof of retirement letter
Fixed income test
Proof of income letter
6-month bank statement
Proof of savings letter

Of the types of residence visa UAE, this is one of the longest duration as it is valid for 5 years. Additionally, as with other visas, you can renew them for the same period as the original application.

Freelancer Visa: Embracing the Freedom of Freelancing in the UAE

Most free zones in the UAE offer freelance visas for citizens of various countries. Additionally, as with other types of UAE residency visa, you do not need a sponsor for one of these visas. Therefore, it allows you to live, including your family, and work in the country independently for between 1 and 5 years.

When applying for a self-employed visa in the UAE, you must submit the following documents:

Updated CV
Complete application form
Copy of the passport of the applicant
Photograph
Certified academic qualifications
2 professional references with corresponding contact information
Those who have employment in the country must have a No Objection Certificate (NOC)

In addition to having these documents, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Obtain a freelance permit from the MOHRE.
Have a specialist diploma or a bachelor’s degree.
Prove that you have had a minimum income of AED 360000 during the 2 years before applying. However, you can show your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in the UAE.

Comparison of Visa Types: Finding the Right Fit for You

Each of the types of residence visa in UAE are specific for people who meet the established criteria. Choosing the right type of visa for you depends on your conditions and needs for your stay in the country. For example, you would need a student visa if you only want to study in the country, as you cannot work using this visa.

Nevertheless, there are differences between a work visa and a freelance visa, as you need a contract with a company for the former. Therefore, if you want to work in a company in the UAE, you must obtain a work visa. In contrast, with a freelance visa, you can do work for various companies and will not need a sponsor.

Hence, understanding each of the types of residence visa UAE will help you understand which one is ideal for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Types of residence visa in UAE

What is a residence visa, and why is it important in the UAE?

This is a document that allows expats to live in the United Arab Emirates legally. Residence visas can be valid for between 1 and 10 years depending on the type, which are renewable. In addition, residence visas in the country are important for the following reasons:

The country does not offer permanent residence, so you need a visa and renew it within the established period.
You can open a bank account
You can get a driver’s license
Have access to government health services
In some cases, you can work legally
Travel to certain countries without losing your residency

What are the eligibility criteria for obtaining a tourist visa in the UAE?

This is one of the types of visa in UAE for All nationalities for which you will need to comply with the following:

A bank balance of AED 14,690 (USD 4,000)
Have valid health insurance
UAE arrival and departure ticket
Proof of stay

Can I work in the country with a tourist visa?

The tourist visa does not allow holders to participate in activities outside of tourism, such as working in the country. People who work under a tourist visa will receive sanctions and legal responsibilities.

Is it possible to bring family members to the UAE on a family residence visa?

Foreigners with UAE residency visas can bring their family and spouse to the country on a family visa. However, applicants must meet a series of requirements imposed by the authorities regarding salary and accommodation. Likewise, people over 18 years of age who apply for a family visa must pass a medical examination consisting of several tests.

What are the benefits of an investor visa, and how can I qualify for one?

Just like the other types of residence visa in UAE, the investor visa gives the holder the following benefits:

It allows the holder to live in the country for three years.
Sponsor your close family members (spouse, children, and parents).
Facilities for traveling between GCC member countries.
You can live outside the UAE for 1 year without losing residency.
Eventually, you will be able to obtain a golden visa that allows you to reside for up to 10 renewable years.

One of the conditions to be able to obtain an investor visa is to be over 18 years of age. Though, you must establish a company in the country or you must prove that you have an investment in the country.

Can international students study in the UAE with a student visa?

The authorities allow international students to obtain a residence visa in UAE for this purpose. However, you must first be accepted into an educational institution to apply for a student visa. Additionally, you must meet specific qualification requirements for high school students and college students.

What are the requirements for obtaining a retirement visa in the UAE?

The first requirement to obtain a retirement visa in the UAE is to be over 55 years of age. Additionally, the applicant must have worked for at least 15 years in the country or outside of it. Likewise, you must meet certain financial conditions, such as savings, property, or continuous income.

How does the freelancer visa program work in the UAE, and who is eligible?

The authorities make it easier for independent workers to obtain a self-sponsored visa to work. However, they can only work in permitted activities, which include jobs in media, education, design, and more. As with the other types of residence visa in UAE, they must meet certain conditions which are:

They must a permit to work from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE)
Have a bachelor’s degree or specialization diploma
Have an annual income for the previous two years of AED 360,000 thanks to your work. You can also show financial solvency to support yourself throughout your stay in the UAE.

If you have any questions regarding visa types in the UAE or how to set up a company, please contact us.

Everything You Need to Know About UAE’s Unified Number

All foreigners who obtain a visa for this country will receive a unique and individual Unified number UAE. This number is of the utmost importance for your aspirations to visit, reside, and even work in this important country in the Middle East. Therefore, you must know everything about this number placed on your passport.

In this article, we will show you how you can get your unified number when applying for your visa. We will also answer some questions that foreigners have about this process, which is not very difficult.

Understanding the Concept of Unified Number

The Unified number UAE (or UID) is a 9-digit number automatically assigned to those who enter the country as tourists or residents. That is, the person obtains this number together with the tourist or residence visa that they will receive. Thus, the UID serves to uniquely identify the visa holder.

Therefore, the Emirates unified number serves to differentiate each person who has ever entered the country. This number is provided by the General Directorate of Residence and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) of the United Arab Emirates. Also, this number is issued by the authority only once, so if you change your status or renew your visa, the UID does not change.

Therefore, it is a very important identification, since it is permanent and has a legal nature for certain transactions. Therefore, you must know your unified number, as it is a requirement to complete immigration and identification procedures. In addition, this number is non-transferable, since it is the one that provides the data on your identity to the authorities.

Location of the Unified number UAE in your passport

It is easy to identify your unified number UAE for a Freelancer Visa or any other type of visa. In this case, the UID number is on top of your Emirates visa number. This number is made up of 9 digits that, as we already mentioned, are unique for each person.

That is where the importance of the unified ID UAE number lies since it allows you to carry out identification procedures. This is because it is your identification within the federal authority for identity and citizenship records.

Unified UAE number and visa number

The Unified number UAE and the visa number are not the same, as both are identified in Arabic and English. Both are located at the top right of the visa page of your passport. However, the UID number is placed above your visa number and it is made up of the last 7-9 numbers on file.

Another difference between the two numbers is that the UID never changes, while the visa number does. In this case, your visa number changes if you change the status of the visa, for example, from temporary to permanent. However, even if you change your visa, the UID number does not change even if your visa does.

Find your Unified number UAE online

In various circumstances, you can find your Unified number UAE online if you need it. To be able to do it, you just have to follow the simple steps described below:

Enter the website of the General Directory of Residence and Foreign Relations (GDRFA). You can do so through the following web address: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service
Enter your personal information (including passport number, nationality, gender, and date of birth.
Solve the requested mathematical operation
Then click Submit

In this way, you will be able to know what your Unified number UAE is, taking into account that you must have your passport number on hand.

Why Having a Unified Number in Dubai, UAE is Important?

As we have mentioned, the Emirates unified number is a unique identification for each person with a visa from the country. Therefore, the authorities will assign you this number whether you have a tourist, work, or residence visa. Thus, this is how the immigration authorities and others identify each of the foreigners in the country.

Hence, the records with the personal data and the actions related to the visa are identified with that number. For example, if your visa is canceled and you apply for a new one, the UID number will remain the same. Therefore, you must always have this number on hand so as not to have any problems with the identification and migration procedures.

This number will help you manage your applications both at the GDRFA and at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC). Thus, this is one of the most relevant data that any foreign visitor or resident of the UAE should have.

People with multiple UID numbers

As we have been mentioning, the Unified number UAE is unique, so no one can have 2. However, the system can make a mistake and assign a different UID number than the person already has. In these cases, it is best to contact the GDRFA to have your UID numbers merged.

Also, you should not wait too long after you get this number to fix this problem. Otherwise, you will have problems with your residency and Emirates ID application, among other inconveniences. To request the merger of your unified numbers, you must carry your passport, a copy of the visa, and other relevant documents with you.

Likewise, if you have an expired or canceled visa, you can use it as additional support for this process.

How to Get a Unified Number?

You should receive your unified number automatically with your tourist, work, or residence visa. However, if you do not have this number or cannot find it on the online portal, you should make a direct inquiry. In this case, you can do it through the contact form on the GDRFA website.

However, you can use the contact telephone numbers provided by the GDRFA:

8005111 for calls from within the UAE
+971 4 313 9999 for calls from abroad

Similarly, you can directly assist the authorities at the GDRFA office in Al Jaffliya, Dubai. You can also visit the contact site of the said authority to obtain more information about it.

Documents Required for Unified Number Application

People who apply for a visa of any type in the Emirates receive the unified number UAE. Therefore, the documents to receive this number are those requested for each type of visa. To get started, a person who wishes to enter the UAE for any purpose must apply for an e-Visa or entry permit.

This is before you receive your final visa imprint in your passport, no matter what visa you are applying for. In this case, there are 2 authorities in charge of this process, the GDRFA (for the visa) and the ICA (for the Emirates Identification). Hence, to get your Emirates ID, the GDRFA must assign you your UID number.

Documents to obtain the UID for a tourist visit

In the case of applying for a tourist visa and therefore obtaining a unified UAE number, you must enter the following:

Health insurance document
financial guarantee
A recent photo on a white background with a 4/6 aspect ratio
A copy of your passport
Statement of the tourist program

In the case of a multiple-entry tourist visa with a validity period of 5 years, you must present a bank certificate apart from the other documents. This must state that you have had a bank balance of USD 4000 or equivalent during the previous 6 months. However, this guarantee is not necessary for children under 18 years of age who accompany the applicant.

In addition, you must make this request in one of the establishments that work in the tourism field. Similarly, as an essential requirement, you must pay the application fees that include the issuance of the visa.

Documents to obtain the UID for a family visit

In the case of applying for a family visit visa or to visit a friend, the required documents are the following:

Evidence of relationship
Justifications for the visit
Copy of the residence permit in one of the CCG countries of the husband of the foreign woman who visits him in the country.
Recent 6/4 size photo with white background
A copy of the passport
Financial guarantee
Health insurance document
Travel ticket

Documents to obtain the UID for a trade mission visit

To obtain this visa, and also the Unified number UAE, the applicant must present the following documents:

Certificate issued by the employer in the country
Certificate of Fitness for work
A temporary contract, or letter from the employer certifying the contractual relationship and the reason for entering the country
Photography with a white background
Copy of your passport
financial guarantee
Medical insurance document
Travel ticket

In the case of this permit, you must request it in the system of establishments of government or private entities, or a free zone.

Documents to obtain the UID to explore job opportunities

To obtain this type of visa and receive your unified number, you must present the following documentation:

Photography with a white background
Copy of your passport
Certificate from the Ministry of Education indicating that the university from which you graduated is among the best 500 universities in the world. In this case, you must also include the time it takes to graduate.
Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, as well as higher academic qualifications
Financial guarantee document
Health insurance document
Travel ticket
Certificate from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) proving that you are a skilled worker and specifying your professional level

On the other hand, for visas issued to explore business opportunities, the applicant must submit the following:

Copy of passport
Document of financial guarantee
A recent photo with white background, size 6/4
Health insurance
Travel ticket
Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and higher academic qualifications.

Documents to obtain the UID for a visit for medical treatment

For people who wish to obtain medical treatment, they must consign the following to obtain their visa and Unified number UAE. In addition, the companion must present the documentation for the entry visa in the same way:

Recent personal photo with a white background of 4/6.
Copy of passport
Health insurance
Travel ticket
Financial guarantee

The following are documents that must be submitted by the patient who will receive the treatment apart from those already mentioned:

A certified medical report
A letter from a health facility stating the reasons for the visit

Documents to obtain the UID for a work entry permit

In this case, to obtain, for example, a unified number UAE for Freelancer Visa, you must present the following:

A recent photo with a white background in size 6/4
Copy of your passport
Health insurance
Employment contract, if linked to one
Financial guarantee

In the case of applying for a work permit for a green visa, the applicant must provide the following:

Certificate from the Ministry/Department of Economy if it is an investor or partner in a business license. In addition, you must include the percentage of shares and the employment contract in the certificate. However, if you are a highly skilled worker or self-employed, you will need a certificate from MOHRE.
6/4 personal photo with white background
Copy of your passport
Financial guarantee
Health insurance

Documents to obtain the UID for an entry or residence permit without work

There is a series of documents common to all applicants for this type of visa, which consist of the following:

Financial guarantee
Health insurance document
Recent photo
Passport copy

For particular categories, the applicant must submit the following documents:

Real estate owners. In this case, you must present a certificate from the Department of the Municipality that attests to ownership in the country.
You must present a certificate from the university, college, educational or research institution
A certificate that proves a period of service of not less than 15 years, which can be both outside and inside the country. You can also provide a birth certificate that proves you have turned 55 years old.
First-degree relatives. A death or divorce certificate for the citizen husband, evidence of a child in the case of a foreign woman. Similarly, you need proof of financial solvency and a suitable place of residence. Also, proof of kinship for a resident of the country if you are a spouse, child, or parent of a foreign resident.

Similarly, spouses or children of a GCC national must provide proof of kinship.

Virtual workers. Proof of income of not less than USD 3,500 or its equivalent in foreign currency. You must also provide proof of your work at an external entity and that his/her work is remote.

Benefits of Having a Unified Number

The unified number or UID grants its owner a series of immigration and identification benefits in the UAE. Thus, the benefits of the UAE unified number are:

Apply for a residence visa
Request an Emirates ID
Be uniquely registered in the immigration database of the country

If you wish to obtain more information regarding the visa processes and the Unified number UAE, do not hesitate to contact us. In ConnectZone you will be able to know all the processes related to business in the United Arab Emirates.

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