UAE Residency Visa Card – Complete Guide
✅ What Is a UAE Residency Visa Card?
A UAE residency visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the UAE legally. Once approved, the visa is stamped in your passport, and you’re issued an Emirates ID, which acts as your UAE residency card.
🏷️ Types of UAE Residency Visas:
Employment Visa – Sponsored by a UAE-based employer
Investor/Partner Visa – For business owners or investors in UAE
Family Visa – Sponsored by a UAE resident for their dependents
Student Visa – For those enrolled in UAE educational institutions
Golden Visa – Long-term visa (5–10 years) for investors, professionals, and talents
Retirement Visa – For retirees meeting financial criteria
Freelance or Remote Work Visa – For digital nomads or remote workers
📄 Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility depends on visa type. General conditions include:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Clear criminal record
Medical fitness certificate
Proof of employment, investment, study, or relationship (for family visa)
📋 Required Documents
Passport (original + copy)
Passport-size photos (white background)
Entry permit or visa approval
Medical fitness report (for adults)
Emirates ID application form
Tenancy contract or proof of UAE address
Insurance coverage (depending on emirate)
Additional documents based on visa type:
Job contract (for work visa)
Marriage/birth certificate (for family visa)
Trade license & company documents (for investor visa)
🛠️ Application Process
Entry Permit: First, get an entry permit if applying from outside UAE.
Medical Test: Undergo a medical test at approved health centers.
Emirates ID Registration: Biometrics + ID application.
Visa Stamping: Residency visa stamped on passport.
Receive Emirates ID: This card serves as your Residency ID in the UAE.
🕒 Processing Time
Usually 5 to 10 working days, depending on the emirate and visa type.
🎁 Benefits of a UAE Residency Visa Card (Emirates ID)
Legal right to live in the UAE
Open bank accounts
Rent property
Access healthcare and education
Get a driving license
Travel visa-free to certain GCC countries
Eligible to sponsor family members
📝 Validity
Typically 2 years for most visas (can be 3 years in free zones)
Golden visa: 5 or 10 years
Renewable before expiration
FAQs – UAE Residency Visa Card
1. What is a UAE residency visa card?
The UAE residency visa card (commonly known as Emirates ID) is a national identity card issued to foreign residents after they are granted a UAE residence visa. It proves legal residence in the UAE.
2. Who can apply for a UAE residency visa?
You can apply if you are:
Employed by a UAE-based company
An investor or business owner
A student at a UAE institution
A family member sponsored by a resident
A remote worker or retiree (under specific visa programs)
3. What is the validity of a UAE residency visa?
Most residence visas are valid for 2 to 3 years. Golden Visas can be valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on eligibility.
4. How do I get a UAE residency visa?
You need a UAE sponsor (employer, family member, or yourself if you’re an investor). The process includes obtaining an entry permit, passing a medical exam, applying for Emirates ID, and getting the visa stamped.
5. Can I apply for UAE residency from outside the country?
Yes. Many visa types begin with an entry permit, allowing you to enter the UAE legally and complete the residency process after arrival.
6. Is a medical test required for a UAE residency visa?
Yes, a medical fitness test (blood test & chest X-ray) is mandatory for adults during the visa process.
7. Can I sponsor my family members on my residency visa?
Yes. If you meet the minimum salary requirement (usually AED 4,000–AED 10,000), you can sponsor your spouse, children, and in some cases, parents.
8. What is the Emirates ID and how is it linked to the residency visa?
The Emirates ID is your official UAE residency card. It is issued once your residency visa is approved and contains your visa details, biometrics, and identity info.
9. How long does it take to get the UAE residency visa?
Processing usually takes 5–10 working days from the time all documents are submitted, depending on visa type and emirate.
10. Can I work in the UAE with a residency visa?
Yes, but only if your visa is employment-based or you have a work permit. Residency alone does not automatically authorize employment unless it’s tied to a job.
Learn how to get a UAE residency visa card. Check types, eligibility, required documents, benefits & step-by-step online application process. Live legally in UAE.