How long is the grace period after residency expiry?

ICP grants 60 days after expiry. Fines start at AED 50 per day and increase after 30 days.

What is the current fee for a 5-year residency renewal?

Visa fee is AED 1,200 plus Emirates ID AED 370, medical test AED 500-750, and typing charges.

Do I need a new medical test every renewal?

Yes. A fresh medical fitness certificate from an approved centre is mandatory for every renewal.

Can I renew my residency online?

Most employment and family visas can be renewed fully through the ICP portal or app.

UAE Residency Renewal Checklist for 2026

Timeline and Grace Period

Your residency visa must be renewed before the expiry date printed on the Emirates ID. ICP allows a 60-day grace period after expiry, but fines begin at AED 50 per day from day one and rise to AED 100 after 30 days. Plan to start the process 30 days before expiry to avoid queues at typing centres and medical centres.

Required Documents

Collect these items before you book any appointments:

Valid passport with at least six months validity
Current Emirates ID (original and copy)
Two passport-size photos with white background
Medical fitness certificate from an approved centre
Proof of valid health insurance covering the full visa period
Tenancy contract or property title deed attested by RERA
Salary certificate or labour contract stamped by MOHRE (for employment visas)
Entry permit or previous visa copy

Medical Test and Emirates ID

Book a medical fitness test at any DHA or MOH-approved centre. The test covers HIV, hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis, and a pregnancy check for women. Fees range from AED 500 to AED 750 depending on the emirate. Results are uploaded directly to ICP within 48 hours. Once cleared, proceed to an Emirates ID renewal kiosk or Amer centre. The new card costs AED 370 for five years and AED 270 for two years. Biometrics are taken on the spot.

Online Submission Through ICP

Most sponsors now complete the renewal inside the ICP portal or app. Upload scanned documents, pay the visa fee of AED 600 for two years or AED 1,200 for five years, plus a knowledge fee of AED 20 and a typing fee of AED 150-250. Once ICP approves, you receive a digital stamp in your passport and the new Emirates ID is mailed within seven working days.

Common Rejection Reasons

Applications are rejected when the tenancy contract is not attested, health insurance has lapsed, or the sponsor has outstanding MOHRE fines. Double-check every document against the ICP checklist before payment. If rejected, you have 30 days to correct and resubmit without extra fees.

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