How to Apply for a UAE Residency
We support residency visa applications through compliant case preparation, sponsor coordination, and administrative filings. Requirements and sequencing differ by visa category (e.g., investor, employment, family) and emirate jurisdiction.
Who is it for / Suitable for
Investors and business owners establishing lawful residence linked to a UAE entity.
Employees sponsored by a UAE employer for work and residence purposes.
Family members sponsored under eligible resident sponsorship rules.
High-net-worth individuals seeking longer-term residency options, subject to qualifying criteria.
Key Requirements
Valid entry permission/status allowing in-country processing where applicable.
Eligible sponsor (company or qualifying individual) and a valid immigration file.
Medical fitness test at an approved government medical center.
Biometrics and identity registration steps as required.
Complete application submission with supporting documents; additional checks may apply based on category and nationality.
Clients need to provide the following information / documents
Document Name
Notarized
Passport copy
Typically minimum 6 months validity; must match application records.
No
Entry permit / status document
Required for change-of-status or stamping workflow (as applicable).
No
Sponsor documents
Company establishment/immigration file or sponsor ID documents (as applicable).
No
Medical fitness test result
Issued by an approved UAE medical fitness center.
No
Passport photo
As per authority format specifications.
No
Average Processing Time
Typically 10–20 business days, subject to visa category, sponsor readiness, medical appointment availability, and authority processing timelines.
What you would get when the application is complete
UAE Residency Visa (electronic or passport-stamped, depending on category)
Visa file / application reference numbers
Eligibility to proceed with Emirates ID issuance (linked process)
On-going Compliance Requirements
After completion, businesses must maintain ongoing compliance:
Renew residency prior to expiry and maintain continuous eligibility with the sponsor.
Comply with cancellation/transfer rules if employment or sponsorship ends.
Maintain a valid passport and update records if personal details change.
Observe UAE stay-validity rules to avoid overstay penalties.
Government Agencies Involved
Government agencies involved / overseeing this application:
GDRFA (Dubai) / relevant emirate residency authority
Residency processing and visa status administration in the relevant emirate.
ICP (Federal)
Identity services and related processes in coordination with emirate authorities (process-dependent).
Approved Medical Fitness Centers
Government-approved medical fitness examinations required for residency issuance.
Thanks vOffice for your quick action on my EJARI request. Appreciate your professionalism
Jen Sun
Your company handles our case very well and professional. Your regular updates allow us a peace of mind an dmake us feel like we are cared for. Your professional advise gave us a peace of mind too.
Adam
EngineerThanks for getting our Dubai company setup so quickly. Everything was perfect.
Mint
Thank you for assisting us with our case with the immigration department. We are satisfied with the outcome and we think it is fair.
Ryan Thompson
I like the way Elena handled our case despite the initial confusion. Her profesionalism is commendable.
Rachel Chen
Consult With Our Corporate Advisory Team
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