Introduction (Updated for 2025) Dubai remains one of the world’s most visited destinations, welcoming millions of tourists every year. Many nationalities can enter Dubai without applying for a visa in advance — they receive a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport. In 2025, Dubai updated the list of eligible countries, stay duration, extension rules, and passport validity requirements. This guide explains the full list of visa-on-arrival countries , entry conditions , fees , extensions , and FAQs , so travelers can enter Dubai smoothly and legally. SECTION 1 — What Is a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Dubai? A Visa on Arrival allows travelers to enter Dubai without applying online before travel . Instead, the visa is issued: ✔ At Dubai International Airport ✔ At Sharjah Airport ✔ At Abu Dhabi Airport ✔ Or any UAE border Travelers simply present their passport, and an entry visa is automatically stamped. SECTION 2 — Dubai Visa on Arrival Countries List (2025) ⭐ 1. GCC ...
Introduction (2025 Updated Information)
Renewing your UAE Residence Visa is one of the most important tasks for expats living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. In 2025, UAE introduced faster digital processing, mandatory health insurance, and stricter rules about medical fitness and Emirates ID renewal.
This guide explains the complete visa renewal process, required documents, fees, grace period, medical test rules, and FAQs — written simply for all residents.
SECTION 1 — When Should You Renew Your UAE Residence Visa?
You must renew your residency visa before it expires.
Renewal window:
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30 days before visa expiry
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You can also renew up to 6 months early if approved by immigration
Grace period after expiry (2025):
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30 days for most residence visas
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After that, overstay fines apply
SECTION 2 — Required Documents for Visa Renewal (2025)
You must prepare the following:
1. Passport Copy
Must be valid for at least 6 months.
2. Emirates ID (Expired/Expiring)
You must apply for a renewal during visa renewal.
3. UAE Visa Page
Copy of old residence visa.
4. Passport Photo (New)
White background.
5. Medical Fitness Certificate
All residents above 18 must pass medical test.
6. Health Insurance (Mandatory)
Especially in Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
7. Sponsor Documents (Depending on who sponsors you)
If company-sponsored:
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Trade license copy
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Establishment card
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Labour card
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Sponsor passport/EID copy (for domestic workers)
If family-sponsored:
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Sponsor salary certificate or labour contract
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Tenancy contract (Ejari)
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Utility bill
SECTION 3 — UAE Residence Visa Renewal Fees (2025)
1. Visa Renewal Fees
| Fee Type | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Medical Test | 250 – 350 |
| Emirates ID (1–3 Years) | 170 – 370 |
| Visa Stamping (Digital) | 500 – 750 |
| Typing / Service Fees | 100 – 200 |
| Total Cost | 900 – 1,600 AED |
2. Additional Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Urgent Visa Renewal | +150 – 300 AED |
| Urgent Medical Test | +250 AED |
| Health Insurance | 300 – 1200 AED |
Fees vary by emirate, visa type, and sponsorship.
SECTION 4 — UAE Residence Visa Renewal (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1 — Apply for Medical Fitness Test
Visit an authorized medical center. Includes:
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Blood test
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X-ray
Processing time: 1–2 days
Step 2 — Apply for Emirates ID Renewal
Through:
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ICP Smart Services (all emirates)
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GDRFA (Dubai)
Biometrics required if first-time renewal.
Step 3 — Submit Visa Renewal Application
Sponsor or company applies through:
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GDRFA Dubai
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ICP Smart Services (other emirates)
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Amer Center (Dubai)
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Typing centers
Step 4 — Submit Documents & Pay Fees
Upload passport, photo, EID receipt, medical report, etc.
Step 5 — Visa Stamping (Digital in 2025)
No physical passport stamping.
Your visa is updated digitally in:
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Emirates ID
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ICP system
You will receive a PDF of your residency visa.
SECTION 5 — UAE Residence Visa Medical Test (2025 Rules)
Test includes:
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Blood test
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Chest X-ray
Disqualifying Conditions
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Infectious diseases like HIV
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Active tuberculosis
If TB scars found
You may receive:
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Conditional residency
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Mandatory treatment
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Follow-up medical tests
SECTION 6 — Grace Period & Overstay Fines (2025)
Grace Period:
✔ 30 days after visa expiry
Overstay Fines:
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50 AED per day
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Additional service fees when exiting UAE
If you overstay too long:
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Travel ban possible
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Visa renewal rejection
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Need exit permit to leave
SECTION 7 — Renewing Family, Spouse & Children Visa
Requirements for Family Sponsored Visa
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Sponsor salary: AED 4,000+ or 3,000 + Accommodation
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Ejari (Dubai)
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Birth/marriage certificates
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Medical for adults
Children under 18 do not need medical test.
SECTION 8 — FAQs (People Also Ask – 2025)
1. How early can I renew my residence visa?
Up to 6 months before expiry (with approval).
2. Can I renew visa without Emirates ID?
No — Emirates ID renewal is mandatory.
3. Can I stay outside UAE for more than 6 months?
If you do, visa may be canceled unless you have Golden Visa or special approval.
4. What if my medical test fails?
Your visa may be rejected, depending on condition.
5. Can I renew visa without employer?
No, your employer/sponsor must apply (unless you have Golden Visa).
6. How long does visa renewal take?
Usually 2–7 days.
Conclusion
The UAE Residence Visa Renewal 2025 process is faster and simpler thanks to digital stamping, improved medical testing, and online Emirates ID renewal. By preparing the right documents and renewing early, you can avoid fines, rejections, and delays.
This guide ensures you always stay legal and fully compliant with UAE immigration rules.
👉 Explore more UAE Visa & Residency Guides on our website.
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