Visa stamping in UAE is the process that confirms the legal permission for an individual to enter or reside in the UAE for a specific period. Visa stamping typically involves submitting necessary documents, undergoing medical examinations if required, and obtaining an Emirates ID.
Before recent changes, visa stamping also included placing a physical visa sticker or stamp inside the passport. However, as of now, this physical endorsement is no longer used, and residency status is verified primarily through the Emirates ID.
A unified application system, which is meant to be fully implemented by the end of 2024, has been launched that lets UAE residents process a single application for a residency Visa and Emirates ID.
Following are the documents required for visa stamping in UAE
- Copy of passport
- Photograph
- E-visa copy
- Emirates ID application
- Applicant Medical result
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID
- IBAN Number of Sponsor’s Bank Account
The UAE residency visa is valid for 2 years or will expire if you reside outside Dubai for more tha 6 months. Following visa expiry, there is a 30-day grace period. Failure to renew on time may incur fines from Immigration and on the Emirates ID application. The duration of visa processing after a medical examination in Dubai varies depending on the visa type and processing speed.
The process for visa stamping or changing your immigration status involves the following steps:
- Entry Permit – initial authorization granted to individuals allowing them to enter the country for specific purposes such as employment, residency, or visitation.
- Change Status – the process of altering an individual’s legal residency or employment status from one category to another. This could involve transitioning from a visit visa to a residency visa, changing employment sponsors, or moving from a tourist visa to a work visa, among other scenarios.
- Medical – a general health check-up to ensure that the applicants meet the health standards set by the UAE immigration authorities.
- Emirates ID – a mandatory identification card for all residents and citizens of the UAE. Applicants register biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs.
- 5. Visa Stamping – the confirmation and validation of the individual’s legal permission to enter, reside, or work in the UAE for a specified period and under specific conditions.
Visa stamping application will be approved within 48 hours from the date of submission. The Residency visa application status you will be notified through email and SMS from the GENERAL DIRECTORATE OF RESIDENCY AND FOREIGNERS AFFAIRS(GDRFA).
