Main Visa Types and How to Obtain Them
Visitors can easily obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
However, Tourist Visas do not permit employment, study, or long-term residence.
For those planning a long-term stay or business activity, the main visa categories include:
- Investor Visa – available through establishing a Free Zone or Mainland company or purchasing property in the UAE,
- Employment Visa – based on an employment contract with a UAE-registered company,
- Golden Visa – 10-year residency granted to investors, property owners, professionals, and talents,
- Dependent Visa – for immediate family members (spouse, children),
- Student Visa – for individuals enrolled in accredited educational institutions in the UAE,
- Talent Visa – for scientists, artists, and qualified specialists in designated fields.
Emirates ID – Your Key to Life in the UAE
Upon obtaining a residency visa, it is mandatory to secure an Emirates ID – a personal identification card essential for everyday life. The Emirates ID is required to:
- open a local bank account,
- obtain a mobile number,
- sign rental contracts,
- access government services,
- receive healthcare.
Without a valid Emirates ID, it is not possible to fully integrate into daily life in the UAE.
Residency Requirements and Compliance
For standard residency visas, the general rule is that residents must not stay outside of the UAE for more than 180 consecutive days, otherwise the visa may be canceled.
Golden Visa holders and property owners are exempt from this restriction.
Most residency visas are issued for a period of two years and can be renewed upon fulfilling the necessary requirements, including:
- payment of government fees,
- completion of a medical examination,
- submission of updated documents and attestations.
Special Options for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs who establish a company in the UAE, whether in a Free Zone or on the Mainland, are eligible to obtain an Investor Visa for themselves and their employees.
The number of visas that can be sponsored depends on the type of business license and the size of the leased premises.
This structure allows businesses to build a team directly in the UAE under full legal protection and with access to local benefits.
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