UAE Residence Visa Renewal: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
UAE residence visas are issued for 2 or 3 years for most employees (10 years for Golden Visa holders). Missing a renewal can mean fines, travel bans, and — for employers — administrative penalties from GDRFA and MOHRE.
1. When to start the visa renewal
Begin the renewal 30–60 days before expiry. The visa can be renewed up to 30 days after expiry, but daily fines (AED 50/day) apply during the overstay period.
2. Required documents
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Existing Emirates ID
- Recent passport-size photo
- Updated medical fitness certificate (for residents 18+)
- Tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai)
- Trade licence copy (for company-sponsored visas)
3. The renewal process step-by-step
- Medical test at an approved DHA/SEHA centre.
- Emirates ID renewal via ICP (biometrics if required).
- Visa stamping through GDRFA / Amer (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).
- Collect updated documents — typically 3–7 working days.
4. Fines for late renewal
The federal overstay fine is currently AED 50 per day from the first day after expiry. Companies sponsoring employees may also face MOHRE penalties on the establishment file.
5. Tracking renewals across many employees
If you sponsor 10+ visas, manual reminders fail. Salahiya gives PRO and HR teams a single dashboard that flags every upcoming visa expiry — with email digests, in-app alerts and a 30-day "renewal radar" so nothing slips through. Compare plans on the pricing page, or pair this with our Emirates ID status guide and labour card renewal guide.
FAQ
How do I check my UAE visa status?
Use the ICP portal or GDRFA Dubai. Enter your file number or passport details.
Can a visa be renewed after expiry?
Yes, within the 30-day grace period, with fines accruing from day one.
Stop tracking expiries in spreadsheets.
Salahiya monitors visa, Emirates ID, labour and health card expiries for every employee — with email alerts before each renewal. Free 2-day trial, AED pricing.