Visa Processing in Dubai: What You Need to Know?

Dubai isn’t just a global business hub — it’s also a place where thousands of professionals and investors relocate every year. But to live and work here legally, you need the right visa.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur starting a company, an employee moving for work, or a family member joining your loved ones, visa processing in Dubai can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the types of visas, requirements, costs, and process — so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Types of Visas in Dubai
Dubai offers different visas depending on your situation:
Investor/Partner Visa – for business owners and shareholders.
Employment Visa – sponsored by an employer in Dubai.
Family Visa – for spouses, children, and sometimes parents.
Golden Visa (10-Year Residency) – for investors, professionals, and high-net-worth individuals.
Tourist Visa – short-term stay, not suitable for work.
2. Investor/Partner Visa in Dubai
Who it’s for: Business owners and company shareholders.
Validity: 3 years (renewable).
Requirements: Trade license, Memorandum of Association (MoA), bank statements.
Cost: AED 4,000 – AED 6,000.
This visa also allows you to sponsor family members.
3. Employment Visa in Dubai
Who it’s for: Employees hired by a Dubai company.
Process:
Employer applies for work permit.
Entry permit issued.
Medical fitness test + Emirates ID.
Residence visa stamping.
Validity: 2 years (private companies) / 3 years (government sector).
Cost: AED 3,000 – AED 5,000 (covered by employer).
4. Family Visa in Dubai
Who it’s for: Spouses, children, parents (sometimes).
Requirements:
Minimum monthly salary (AED 4,000–AED 10,000 depending on dependents).
Valid UAE residence visa (sponsor).
Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificates).
Validity: 1–3 years.
Cost: AED 3,000 – AED 4,500 per dependent.
5. Golden Visa in Dubai
Who it’s for: Investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals.
Validity: 10 years.
Benefits: Long-term stability, no local sponsor required, easier family sponsorship.
Cost: AED 9,000 – AED 15,000 (varies by category).
6. Documents Required for Visa Processing
Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Passport-size photos (UAE standard).
Trade license / labor contract (depending on visa type).
Medical fitness test report.
Emirates ID application.
Proof of accommodation (Ejari or tenancy contract for family visas).
7. Timeline for Visa Processing in Dubai
Entry Permit: 2–7 working days.
Medical Test & Emirates ID: 3–5 working days.
Visa Stamping: 5–10 working days.
👉 Total: Around 2–3 weeks from start to finish.
8. Common Challenges in Visa Processing
Incomplete paperwork.
Delay in approvals due to jurisdiction differences.
Insufficient salary for family sponsorship.
Changing job/employer (cancellation and transfer process).
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Can I work in Dubai on a tourist visa?
No, it’s illegal to work on a tourist visa. You must have a valid employment visa.
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Can I switch from a tourist visa to a residence visa without leaving Dubai?
Yes, many Free Zones and Mainland authorities now allow status change inside the UAE.
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How long is an investor visa valid?
3 years, renewable upon license renewal.
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Can I sponsor my parents under a family visa?
Yes, but with higher salary requirements and extra approvals.
Visa processing in Dubai may seem complicated, but with the right guidance, it can be fast and hassle-free. Whether you need an investor, employment, or family visa, proper documentation and timing are key.
At Fast Business Service, we provide end-to-end visa processing in Dubai — from document collection to approvals.
Contact us today and get your visa sorted with zero stress.
+971 56 523 1212
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