How to Renew Your UAE Residence Visa Through a Free Zone Company 2026
UAE residence visas sponsored by free zone companies need regular renewal. Here is the complete 2026 guide on renewing your investor visa through a UAE free zone.
In this guide:
When to Renew Your UAE Residence Visa
- Visa expiry: UAE investor visas are typically issued for 2-3 years; renew before expiry
- Licence renewal: Visa renewal requires your trade licence to be valid; always renew licence first
- Grace period: 30 days grace period after visa expiry; apply well before expiry
Step-by-Step: Renewing Your Free Zone Investor Visa
- Step 1: Renew your free zone trade licence (if due for renewal)
- Step 2: Apply for visa renewal via your free zone authority or ICA portal
- Step 3: Pay ICA renewal fees (AED 1,000-2,500 depending on visa type and duration)
- Step 4: Medical fitness test if not done recently (AED 200-400)
- Step 5: Emirates ID renewal (AED 270-370)
- Step 6: Visa stamping in passport (if residing in UAE; AED 500-1,000)
If You Are Outside UAE When Visa Expires
- Reentry: If visa expired while abroad, re-enter on new entry permit
- Change of status: Change status from visitor/entry permit to residence visa inside UAE
- Cost: Status change fee AED 570
Renewing While Switching Free Zones
- Old visa cancelled: If switching free zones, old visa must be cancelled before new visa issued by new free zone
- Timeline: Allow 4-6 weeks for full visa switch when changing free zones