Steps to Obtain a Residency Visa in Dubai for Canadian Expats
Securing a residency visa in Dubai involves a series of steps that must be followed carefully to ensure compliance with local regulations. Here’s a detailed guide on the process for Canadian expats:
1. Determine the Type of Visa Needed
Types of Residency Visas:
- Employment Visa: For individuals who have secured a job 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 Dubai’s educational institutions.
2. Gather Required Documents
Common Documents Needed:
- It is a valid Canadian passport with at least six month validity.
- Two recent photographs with white background and passport size.
- Employment contract or investment certificate or any other proof of investment.
- Medical fitness certificate from Dubai UAE.
- Emirates ID application form.
- Evidence of health insurance.
- Documents include; No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor (for family visas).
3. Entry Permit
Process:
- Your employer or sponsor will make the application for entry permit to GDRFA which is the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
- This permit lets you into Dubai and begin the visa process.
- Once the approval is done, you can go to Dubai and continue with the residency visa processes.
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 Emirates Identity Authority.
- Provide biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs, at an Emirates ID service center.
6. Residency Visa Stamping
Steps:
- All the documents listed are to be submitted to the GDRFA and these include medical fitness certificate and Emirates ID application form.
- Submit the required charges for visa fee, and the cost of visa stamping.
- Your passport should be endorsed with the residency visa and then you became a legal residents of Dubai.
7. Obtain Emirates ID
Final Steps:
- Once the stamping of the visa is done, Emirates ID will be prepared and issued to you.
- Get your Emirates ID from the given center as this is legalized identification document for residents.
Additional Tips
- Health Insurance: It is compulsory for anyone who has a residency visa to have adequate health insurance cover therefore make sure that you have one.
- Renewal and Cancellation: Learn about the visa renewal procedure and circumstances that lead to the visa cancellation: if you switch job or sponsor.