How long does a UAE residence visa take in 2026?

Most employment visas are approved in 5 to 10 working days after submission if documents are complete.

Can I sponsor my family on a residence visa?

Yes. Sponsors must earn at least AED 4,000 monthly or own property worth AED 750,000 to sponsor spouse and children.

What happens if my residence visa expires?

You face fines of AED 50 per day after a 30-day grace period. Renew online via ICP before expiry to avoid penalties.

How to Get a UAE Residence Visa in 2026 — Step by Step

Types of Residence Visas Available in 2026

Expats can apply for several long-stay options through ICP. The most common are employment, family sponsorship, property investment, and freelance visas. Each type has fixed requirements and fees set by ICP.

Entry Permit and Medical Steps

Once your visa is approved, ICP issues an entry permit. You must enter the UAE within 60 days. Within 30 days of arrival, complete the Emirates ID biometrics, medical fitness test at an approved DHA or DOH centre, and Emirates ID application. Medical test fees start at AED 300 for basic screening.

Visa Stamping and Emirates ID

After medical clearance, ICP stamps the residence visa in your passport. The stamp is usually valid for two or three years depending on your visa type. You then receive the Emirates ID card, which you must carry for banking, SIM registration, and government services.

Costs in 2026

Employment visa sponsorship typically costs AED 4,000 to AED 6,000 including medical, Emirates ID, and stamping. Property visas for AED 2 million investments start at AED 4,500. Family sponsorship adds AED 1,000 per dependent for visa fees plus medical and Emirates ID costs. Always confirm current ICP fees before payment.

Renewal and Status Changes

Residence visas must be renewed before expiry. ICP allows online renewal up to 30 days before the expiry date. If you change jobs, your new employer files a new application and cancels the old visa. A 30-day grace period applies after cancellation before you must leave or obtain new status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting incomplete documents delays approval. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity. Keep digital copies of all ICP approvals and medical results. Using an unapproved medical centre or skipping biometrics can void your application.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →