Dubai Residence Visa 2026 – Types, Requirements & Step-by-Step Application Guide

If you are planning to live, work, study, or retire in Dubai, you’ll need a UAE residence visa. Unlike a tourist visa, a residence visa allows you to stay long-term, sponsor family members, and access essential services like healthcare, schooling, and banking.

In this 2026 guide, we cover the types of Dubai residence visas, eligibility, required documents, and a detailed application process.

What is a Dubai Residence Visa?

A residence visa in Dubai is a long-term permit that allows foreign nationals to legally live in the UAE for work, study, family reunification, or investment purposes. It is typically sponsored by an employer, family member, or through property ownership. Once approved, it is stamped inside your passport and linked to your Emirates ID.

Who Needs a Residence Visa in Dubai?

You need a residence visa if you plan to:

• Work in Dubai (public sector, private sector, or free zone).

• Study at a recognized UAE university.

• Live in Dubai as a dependent of a resident (spouse, parent, or child).

• Hire a domestic worker or maid.

• Retire in Dubai.

• Own property or make qualifying investments in the UAE.

Types of Residence Visas in Dubai 2026

Employment Residence Visa

Issued to foreigners employed in Dubai by a company or government entity.

• Validity: 2 years (private sector) or 3 years (government/free zone).

• Requires a valid employment contract and company sponsorship.

Mission Visa

Short-term work visa for assignments up to 90 days.

• Usually sponsored by companies for temporary projects.

• Cannot be converted into a permanent residence visa without a new application.

Family / Dependent Residence Visa

Allows expatriates to sponsor their spouse, children, or parents.

• Minimum salary requirement: AED 4,000–AED 5,000 (varies by case).

• Marriage and birth certificates must be attested.

Housemaid / Domestic Worker Visa

For residents earning at least AED 8,000 per month who wish to hire domestic staff.

• Eligible workers can be from approved countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and Bangladesh.

• Sponsor must be legally married and living with their family.

Student Residence Visa

For foreign students enrolled in UAE universities or schools.

• Requires admission proof from a UAE institution.

• Validity: Typically 1 year, renewable annually.

Property Investor & Retirement Visas

• Property Visa: Available for those who purchase property in Dubai above a set value (AED 1M+).

• Retirement Visa: For retirees above 55 years who meet financial or investment requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for a Dubai Residence Visa

You must fall into one of these categories:

• Employment in a UAE-based organization.

• Enrollment in a UAE educational institution.

• Sponsorship by a UAE resident or citizen.

• Ownership of UAE property.

• Meeting financial criteria for retirement visas.

Required Documents for Dubai Residence Visa 2026

• Completed UAE visa application form (online or Amer center).

• Original passport (6+ months validity).

• Recent passport-size photos (as per UAE photo rules).

• Entry permit issued by your sponsor.

• Sponsor’s residency proof and Emirates ID.

• Medical fitness test results from an approved UAE clinic.

• Valid UAE medical insurance.

• Additional documents depending on visa type:

  • Work Visa → Employment contract + company license.

  • Family Visa → Marriage/birth certificates (attested).

  • Student Visa → Proof of admission.

  • Property/Retirement Visa → Title deed or financial proof.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Entry Permit (H3)

Your sponsor (employer, family, or institution) applies for an entry permit via:

• The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), or

• The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai).

Step 2: Medical & Emirates ID

Once inside Dubai:

• Undergo a medical examination at an approved center.

• Apply for your Emirates ID through biometrics.

Step 3: Residence Visa Stamping

Submit your passport to GDRFA for residence visa stamping. After approval, your Emirates ID will carry the same validity as your residence visa.

Validity, Renewal & Fees

• Residence visas are valid for 1–3 years (depending on type).

• Renewal must be initiated before expiry to avoid fines.

• Fees vary based on category (employment, family, student, property).

Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation.

• Passport validity less than 6 months.

• Failed medical fitness test.

• Insufficient salary or financial proof for sponsorship.

• Submitting applications at non-authorized centers.

Tip: Always apply via authorized Amer centers or online GDRFA portals to avoid delays.

Why Apply With DubaiVisitorVisa.com?

Applying for a residence visa can be complex. With DubaiVisitorVisa.com, you get:

• ✅ Expert guidance tailored to your visa type.

• ✅ Pre-checks of documents to reduce rejection risk.

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• ✅ 100% secure online payment.

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Obtaining a Dubai residence visa in 2026 is straightforward if you meet the eligibility and provide the correct documents. From employment to family sponsorship, student visas, and retirement options, Dubai offers multiple pathways to live in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

👉 Apply now for your Dubai residence visa through DubaiVisitorVisa.com and ensure a smooth, secure, and reliable process.