Detailed Visa Process for Singapore Expats Moving to Dubai
Relocating to Dubai from Singapore involves navigating the visa application process, which can vary depending on the type of visa required. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the steps and requirements for obtaining a residency visa in Dubai for Singaporean expats.
1. Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Types of Visas:
- Employment Visa: For individuals who have secured employment with a company based in Dubai.
- Investor Visa: For those investing in a business or property in Dubai.
- Family Visa: For dependents of a resident or citizen.
- Student Visa: For students enrolled in educational institutions in Dubai.
2. Gather Required Documents
Common Documents Needed:
- Singaporean passport/ Identification card with at least six months validity left.
- Current passport size photos, the photos must be taken against a white background.
- Copy of employment contract or document to show investment made.
- Medical fitness certificate (When obtained in Dubai).
- Emirates ID application form.
- An authentic record of health insurance.
- Sponsorship from the sponsor (for family visas)- No objection Certificate.
3. Entry Permit Application
Process:
- Employer/Sponsor Responsibility: Your employer or sponsor will apply for an entry permit through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Approval: Once the entry permit is approved, you can travel to Dubai and begin the residency visa process.
4. Medical Fitness Test
Requirements:
- Visit a government-approved health center in Dubai.
- Undergo tests for communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.
- Obtain a medical fitness certificate, which is a prerequisite for the residency visa.
5. Emirates ID Application
Process:
- Submit an application for an Emirates ID at an approved typing center or online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
- Provide biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs, at an Emirates ID service center.
6. Residency Visa Stamping
Steps:
- Document Submission: Ensure that you submit all required documents which include the medical fitness certificate and the application of Emirates ID to GDRFA.
- Fee Payment: Submit the needed fees for the visa and the stamping fee.
- Visa Stamping: Your passport will be stamped with residency visa that will mean you can now work and live in Dubai.
7. Obtain Emirates ID
Final Steps:
- ID Processing: After the visa is stamped, your Emirates ID will be processed and issued.
- ID Collection: Collect your Emirates ID from the designated center, which serves as an official identification document for residents.
Key Considerations
- Health Insurance: It is compulsory for the residents of UAE, especially for the residency visa holders to have valid health insurance.
- Renewal and Cancellation: It also contains information about when and how a visa can be renewed, when a visa can be canceled, and for what reason, for instance, when switching jobs or sponsors.
- Legal Compliance: It is advised to know the immigration laws of UAE to make sure that you are not on the wrong side of the law within this country.
In addition, any Singaporean can easily move to work and reside in Dubai as an expatriate provided all the documents and procedures listed above are well arranged. In order to find the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to use official sites of the government and if possible, address to the immigration lawyers.