Now you can apply online for long-term UAE residence visa

By Eudore R. Chand

DUBAI 7 May 2019: Foreign nationals eligible for long-term residence permits, as announced by the government of the United Arab Emirates in 2018, can now submit an online application for a six-month entry permit.

The application is part of the process in completing procedures related to the foreign national’s purpose of residence (e.g.: business projects, investment in real estate, enrolment at a university, etc.), which will enable them to finalise their immigration process in the UAE, said immigration specialist firm, Fragomen Worldwide.

Application Process

The following categories of foreign nationals can lodge an application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship’s website:

  • Entrepreneurs
  • Investors
  • Individuals with exceptional talents and
  • Outstanding students

Applications must be supported with a proof of long-term residence eligibility and a fee of Dh300.

Changes to the residence permit system in the UAE were first announced in May 2018, but the visa conditions were only finalized by the end of the year, and the respective Cabinet Resolution came into force in February 2019. Until now, there have been no further announcements regarding the application process.

Because the process is still in its initial phase, it remains unclear if existing residents in the UAE who meet the long-term visa conditions as determined by law must undergo the same process as candidates outside the UAE, Fragomen said.