UAE Residence Visa Validity

All nationalities other than UAE and GCC national citizens should obtain a UAE residence visa to live legally in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates. These nationalities are called as expatriates and most companies which employ them are sponsoring them for a UAE residence visa along with a labour card or work permit for their job. 

A residence visa is a must item to open a bank account, to obtain a driving licence, to register a car, apply for a PO Box, and so on. There are several ways in which a residence visa can be obtained.

As per the new rule from UAE Immigration department and Federal law, all expat residents require an Emirates ID card to apply for new and renewal of their residence visa. Emirates Id card is the national population register system of UAE and it records the personal details of the holder including his passport information, visa information, finger prints, eye scan and blood details.

As per the new law of Immigration and GDRFA the residence visa can be obtained for 1 year or two years. Visa should be renewed on the due date to avoid fines. A medical screening is a requirement and should be done before stamping the residence in the passport.

From June 2012 onwards the sponsor of UAE residents should be named in a tenancy contract before they could receive a new, or renew their residence visa and provide an electricity bill in their name. This requirement is UAE-wide and applicable for Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and other emirates. The new visa rules are equally implemented in all Emirates.