To keep your UAE residency visa valid, it’s important to maintain your residency status by re-entering the UAE at least once every six months. If you are a frequent traveler or live abroad, failing to return within 180 days will automatically result in the cancellation of your visa. In such cases, you must go through the process of renewing your residence visa.
If you’ve stayed outside the UAE for more than 180 days, you can still apply for a re-entry permit by:
Submitting an application from outside the UAE.
Providing a valid reason for exceeding the 180-day limit.
Paying a fine of AED 100 for every 30 days of absence.
You can apply for a Return Permit through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) in Dubai. Acceptable justifications include medical treatment, education, or force majeure circumstances, and you must provide supporting documents.
Renewing your UAE residence visa is typically simpler than obtaining your initial visa. However, it still requires:
Completing a medical examination.
Renewing your Emirates ID.
Providing the same basis for your visa (e.g., as an investor, freelancer, retiree).
The renewal process should begin 1–2 weeks before your visa expires:
Complete the required medical tests at an approved center.
Apply for your Emirates ID renewal.
Submit your medical report, passport, and necessary documents to the immigration office.
Once completed, your residency visa will be renewed for another term.
Typically, your visa sponsor is responsible for initiating the cancellation process. Sponsors can be:
Your employer: You’ll sign a confirmation that you’ve received all salaries and benefits. Long-term employees may also receive an end-of-service gratuity.
Your own company: Business owners can apply themselves or appoint a PRO (Public Relations Officer) to manage the process.
Your spouse or parent: If you’re under a dependent visa, your family sponsor must handle the cancellation.
Government authority: For government employees, the authority itself processes the cancellation.
If you’re inside the UAE:
You must submit your original passport to the issuing authority and await cancellation.
If you’re outside the UAE:
If absent for more than 6 months, your visa can be canceled without sending your passport.
If absent for less than 6 months, you must send your original passport to your employer or PRO for processing.
Cancellation must be done through the same authority that issued your visa:
GDRFAD (Dubai visas), via Tasheel or Amer centers.
Free zone authorities (for free zone visas).
Residents can choose from three convenient options:
Online through ICA or GDRFAD portals.
Via approved Tasheel Typing Centers.
Using the ICA or GDRFAD mobile apps.
Online Cancellation Process (GDRFAD Services):
Visit GDRFAD’s online portal.
Select Cancellation of Residency Visa and click Start Service.
Log in, upload required documents, and follow instructions.
Receive a confirmation email upon successful cancellation.
Through a Tasheel Typing Center:
Gather necessary documents.
Visit an approved center and submit the documents.
The agents will process the cancellation on your behalf.
Via ICA or GDRFAD Mobile App:
Download the app.
Navigate to Cancellation of Residence Visa.
Complete the form and upload documents.
Upon approval, you’ll be notified to submit your passport for final cancellation.
Required Documents:
Original passport.
Original Emirates ID and labor card (if applicable).
Signed visa cancellation form from your sponsor.
If employer-sponsored: clearance documents from MOHRE.
The UAE offers several long-term visa options to attract investors and skilled professionals:
Investor Visa: 10-year renewable visa for substantial investments in real estate or bank deposits.
Special Talent Visa: For scientists, researchers, inventors, artists, and performers.
Executive Visa: For CEOs and managing directors holding at least a diploma.
Retirement Visa: For residents aged 55+ who meet financial requirements.
Each visa type has unique eligibility criteria, so always verify the latest requirements with UAE authorities or a trusted consultant.
Legal Residency: Live, work, study, and conduct business freely.
No Personal Income Tax: No tax on salaries, investments, or inheritance.
Banking Access: Open personal accounts, transfer funds internationally, and access loans and credit facilities.
Healthcare and Education: Enroll your children in top schools and access world-class medical services.
Low Corporate Tax: 9% corporate tax rate, with exemptions for small businesses and free zone companies.
Driving License: Obtain a UAE driver’s license once you’re a resident.
Regardless of the issuing Emirate, a UAE residence visa allows you to live anywhere across the seven Emirates.
However, some services like obtaining a driver’s license must be completed in the Emirate where your visa was issued. For instance, if your company is based in Fujairah Free Zone, you must apply for your driver’s license there.
Living in Dubai offers a more vibrant lifestyle, with world-class shopping, entertainment, healthcare, and education — but also comes with higher living costs.
Wherever you choose to live, the UAE provides a safe, dynamic, and opportunity-filled environment for individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and investors alike.
The brand name Visa Kings Global is used under licence by Visa Success Limited. Visa Success Limited is not a firm of solicitors and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Visa Success Limited does not give financial, legal or tax advice.
Information affecting all users of this website can be found on our Legal Notices page which you are deemed to have read and accepted.
