Unlock UAE Residency: Visa Options for Living, Working & Investing in the UAE
- From 2-year work permits to 10-year Golden Visas — explore all UAE residency visa routes with expert support.
Why Choose
Why Choose UAE Residency?
- A hub for business, innovation, and quality of life
- Access to the UAE’s robust infrastructure, safety, and global connectivity
- Flexibility to live, invest, and build your life
- Family inclusion and long-term stability
- Tax advantages and ease of travel

UAE Residency Visas
Types of UAE Residency Visas
(Source: UAE government portal) (UAE Official Portal)
Visa Type | Purpose / Use Case | Key Features & Duration* | Eligibility & Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Golden Visa | Long-term stability for high-value individuals | Up to 10 years, renewable | Investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, outstanding students, and more. |
Residence visa for working in the UAE | For employees admitted via UAE employer | Usually 2–3 years (varies by emirate) | Requires employment contract and employer sponsorship. |
Residence visa for working outside the UAE | Remote work visa / “virtual work” | Validity depends on scheme | For those employed abroad but wishing to reside in UAE. |
Blue Visa | Skilled professionals / remote / freelancers | Flexible duration (often 5 years) | For qualified professionals, freelance permit holders, self-employed, etc. |
Residence visa for the retired | For retirees to live in UAE | Up to 5 years | For retirees meeting age, financial, and health criteria. |
Residence visa for doing business in the UAE | For business owners / investors | Varies (2, 5, or 10 years depending on entity and investment) | Owners, shareholders, startup founders, etc. |
Residence visa for studying in the UAE | For students enrolled in UAE institutions | Duration tied to program length | Requires university admission and sponsorship. |
Residence visa for family members | Dependent visas | Aligns with primary visa duration | Spouse, children, parents (in some cases). |
*Actual duration, renewal rules, and benefits may vary by emirate, visa category, and evolving regulations.
Deep Dive
Deep Dive: Key Visa Categories & Their Benefits
Golden Visa
- 10-year validity with renewal
- No need for continuous employment sponsorship
- Can sponsor family, domestic help
- No minimum stay requirement
- Greater flexibility to plan long-term in the UAE
Work (Employment) Residence Visa
- Standard route for foreign employees
- Valid for 2–3 years (depending on emirate and job contract)
- Employer sponsorship required
- Permit to work, access to local services
Blue Visa / Remote Work / Freelancer
Highlights:
- Flexibility to live in UAE while working remotely
- Permit to sponsor visa based on professional credentials
- Often up to 5-year duration
- Encourages innovation and flexible work models
Retirement Visa
- Up to 5-year renewable visa
- Requirements: age threshold, minimum savings or income, health insurance
- Allows you to make UAE your base for post-career life
Business / Investor Visa
- Visa tied to business registration, investment or free-zone activity
- Can lead to longer-term visas (e.g. Golden) in many cases
- Enables you to live, oversee operations, and travel
Student Visa
- Valid for the duration of academic program
- May allow limited work permissions depending on regulations
- Enables you to access UAE’s educational infrastructure
Family / Dependent Visa
- Spouse, children (and in some cases parents)
- Validity aligned with primary visa
- Access to UAE’s services (health, education)
Eligibility Overview & Common Requirements
While each visa category has its own specific requirements, the general criteria often include:
- Valid passport
- Clean criminal record
- Medical fitness / health screening
- Proof of income, savings, business ownership, or professional credentials
- Sponsorship or nomination (employer, investor, educational institution)
- Payment of government and administrative fees
DuDigital’s first step is to assess your eligibility and choose the most appropriate visa route.
Our Process
Our Process: How DuDigital Supports You
01
Free Eligibility Assessment
02
Document Checklist & Preparation
03
Application & Government Submission
04
Medical, Security & Visa Stamping
05
Post-Landing Support & Renewal Assistance
Why Partner with DuDigital for UAE Residency?
- Deep domain expertise across all UAE visa types
- End-to-end guidance (from assessment → issuance → renewal)
- Local presence in UAE + India (and other markets)
- Transparent pricing and regulatory compliance
- Proven track record of success
FAQs
DU DIGITAL GLOBAL
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I switch visa types (e.g., from Work visa to Golden Visa)?
Yes, many holders can transition when they become eligible (e.g., as an investor, outstanding talent, etc.).
Is there a minimum stay requirement?
Some visas (like Golden Visa) often do not mandate a fixed minimum stay, but rules differ; always refer to specific visa conditions.
Can my family join me under my visa?
Yes — most visa types allow sponsorship of spouse and dependents.
Are there restrictions on travel while holding UAE residence visa?
Residence visas typically allow free exit/re-entry, but you must ensure your visa doesn’t lapse while you are abroad.
How long does the process take?
It depends on visa type. For Golden Visa, nomination and processing may take weeks; for standard work visas it can be faster. DuDigital will guide you with timelines.