Emigrating to Dubai - Entry and Visa

A dream of sun and sand – Dubai is a popular destination for expats from all over the world. Emigrating is a life-changing decision that people make for various reasons. Whether seeking better job opportunities, a higher standard of living, or simply the desire to experience a new culture – moving abroad promises new adventures and new challenges.
This blog post will tell you everything you need to know about entry requirements and visas.

• Why Dubai
• Entry requirements for Dubai
• Apply for a Dubai visa
• Dubai Visitor Visa
• Visa extension in Dubai 
• Visa status change

Dubai is a highly sought-after destination for expats, thanks to its impressive modern architecture, rapid economic growth, and blend of traditional and contemporary culture. The city offers attractive job opportunities, particularly in commerce, finance, and tourism, and with no income tax, meaning you keep more of your salary. Dubai is known for its high quality of life, with numerous leisure activities, abundant sunshine, and is considered one of the safest cities in the world. Families benefit from top-quality international schools. Dubai's central location makes travel to other countries easy. All these factors combine to make Dubai a place brimming with opportunities and adventure. 

If you are planning to relocate to Dubai, you will need a residence visa and an Emirates ID to stay in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This can be obtained by starting a business or owning property. If you are employed, your employer will take care of applying for your visa and Emirates ID.

If you are traveling to Dubai and need a visa, there are several options, depending on your nationality and the type of visa you require. A common and convenient method is to apply online through the official website of the  UAE government . There you will find all the necessary information and can start the application process directly.

Another option is to obtain a visa through the airline you are traveling to Dubai with. Many airlines, such as Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, and Air Arabia, offer this service, provided you have already booked your flight with them. This option can be particularly convenient, as it often provides a seamless service from booking to visa application.

Alternatively, you can contact a travel agency or a specialized visa service provider. These services are often familiar with the latest requirements and procedures and can help simplify the application process. They can be particularly helpful if you are unsure how the process works or if you have specific requirements.
In some cases, it may also be necessary to apply for the visa through an embassy or consulate of the United Arab Emirates in your home country. This is often the case for people from countries that have special visa agreements with the United Arab Emirates.

Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to have all the necessary documents ready and to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and deadlines for visa applications. The exact requirements and procedures can vary depending on your country of origin and the type of visa you're applying for. It's always advisable to research thoroughly beforehand to ensure a smooth process.

The Dubai Visitor Visa, also known as a visitor visa, is an excellent option for those wishing to travel to Dubai to visit friends or family, or to spend an extended holiday. This visa offers a degree of flexibility and is ideal for those who want to spend more time in Dubai, whether for relaxation, tourism, or family gatherings.
The visitor visa allows you to stay in the United Arab Emirates for up to 90 days. This is particularly advantageous for visitors who wish to spend an extended period in Dubai or the country without the hassle of frequent renewals required for shorter visa types. It offers the opportunity to explore the diverse sights, cultures, and experiences that Dubai has to offer at your own pace.

An important aspect of the Dubai Visitor Visa is the possibility of extension. In many cases, the visa can be extended if you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days. This gives you added flexibility should your plans change or you simply need more time to experience everything Dubai has to offer. However, extensions are not automatic and require a separate application, which must be submitted before your current visa expires. It is important to review the specific guidelines and deadlines for visa extensions to ensure a smooth process.

Travelers with German citizenship do not need to submit a separate application for a Visitor Visa and are automatically permitted to stay in the country for 90 days from the date of entry. To apply for a Dubai Visitor Visa, you must meet some basic requirements, such as having a valid passport . Applications can usually be submitted online via the official website of the UAE government or through service providers such as airlines, hotels, or travel agencies.

The Dubai visitor visa offers a fantastic opportunity to explore this vibrant city at your own pace. Whether you want to visit the famous landmarks, experience the local culture, or simply spend time with loved ones, this visa provides the necessary flexibility and convenience for a pleasant and memorable stay.

If you wish to change your visa status, for example from a tourist visa to a work visa, you will first need an employment contract from a company in the UAE. The company must then apply for a work visa on behalf of the employee. This process requires approval from the immigration authorities, and various documents such as the employment contract and a copy of your passport must be submitted. A medical examination, which must be conducted in Dubai, is also required for a work visa. In addition to the work visa, you will need a work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.

Interestingly, it is often possible today to change your visa status within the country without having to leave, which greatly simplifies the process. However, it is important to obtain the most up-to-date information and regulations from the immigration authorities or a qualified legal professional, as rules and procedures are subject to change. Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of the new visa and submit applications in a timely manner to avoid penalties or problems on future entries.

By following these guidelines and ensuring that all required documents are correct, you can make the visa extension or visa status change process in Dubai smooth and successful.