Need to extend your stay in the UAE? Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to renew your UAE visa and avoid overstaying.

Who Can Renew a UAE Visa?

Visitors and residents in the UAE can apply for visa renewals depending on their visa type. The renewal process differs slightly for each category, and it is important to apply before the visa expires to avoid fines or legal issues.

Types of Visas Eligible for Renewal:

1. Tourist Visa Renewal

   • Tourist visas (30 or 90 days) can be renewed twice for an additional 30 days each time.
   • No need to exit the country for renewal.

2. Visit Visa Renewal

   • Similar to the tourist visa, the visit visa (30 or 90 days) can be renewed twice for 30 days each.
   • You can extend without leaving the UAE.

3. Residence Visa Renewal

   • Residency visas (employment, family, or investor) are renewable before the visa’s expiry date.
   • Typically valid for 2-3 years, renewals require sponsorship (employer, family member, or self-sponsorship).

4. Student Visa Renewal

   • Student visas can be renewed as long as you are enrolled in an accredited UAE educational institution.
   • Requires a letter of continuation from the institution.

5. Employment Visa Renewal

   • Employment visas can be renewed based on the duration of the work contract.
   • Employers are responsible for initiating the renewal process.

How to Renew Your UAE Visa

1. Check Eligibility

   • Ensure your visa type allows for renewal.
   • Confirm you have not overstayed your visa before applying for an extension.

2. Required Documents

   • Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
   • Copy of the current visa
   • Passport-sized photographs
   • Proof of financial stability (for tourist and visit visas)
   • Sponsorship documents (for resident or employment visas)

3. Renewal Process

   • For Tourist and Visit Visas:

     • Visit the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
     • Submit your renewal application online or through an authorized typing center.
     • Pay the renewal fees (AED 600-1000, depending on the visa type).
     • You’ll receive an updated visa within 1-3 working days.

   • For Residence and Employment Visas:

     • Employers or sponsors should handle renewals for employment or residence visas.
     • Visit an authorized typing center or the GDRFA office to submit the application.
     • Pay the required fees and provide biometric data if necessary.
     • Medical fitness tests may be required for certain visa categories.

Visa Renewal Fees

• Tourist/Visit Visa Renewal: AED 600-1000 per extension
• Residence Visa Renewal: AED 1000-2000 depending on visa type and length
• Employment Visa Renewal: Fees are handled by the employer, varying based on industry and job role.

Overstaying Fines

It’s crucial to renew your visa before it expires to avoid fines:

• AED 50 per day for the first 6 months
• AED 100 per day for the next 6 months
• AED 200 per day after one year of overstaying

Important Notes:

• Grace Period: Residence visa holders have a 30-day grace period after visa expiry to renew or leave the country without fines.
• Visa Change Option: Instead of extending, you can change your visa status by applying for a new visa.

Tips for Smooth Visa Renewal:

• Always apply for renewal at least 7 days before your visa expires to allow processing time.
• Keep a copy of your renewed visa and ensure that your passport has sufficient validity.
• Check for specific requirements for certain visa types, like medical tests for residency renewals.

For more information or to start the renewal process, contact us.