UAE residence visas (2-year employment, investor, or family visas) must be renewed before they expire. Here is a complete step-by-step renewal guide for 2025.
When to Renew a UAE Residence Visa
UAE residence visas expire on the date shown in the passport. You can start the renewal process: up to 30 days before the expiry date (for employment visas, some employers start 60 days before). You cannot renew more than 30 days before expiry (the renewal system will not process early). After expiry: you have a grace period (typically 30 days) to renew without overstay fines. If you miss the grace period: overstay fines accumulate at AED 100-200/day.
Employment Visa Renewal Process
The employer handles the renewal for employees: Step 1: Employer ensures the company trade licence is valid. Step 2: Employer submits renewal application to ICP via MOHRE/Tas’heel system. Required: current passport, Emirates ID, health insurance certificate. Step 3: Medical test (may be required if you have not had one recently, ICP system checks your last test date). Step 4: Emirates ID renewal (you need a new Emirates ID when your visa is renewed). Step 5: Visa stamped in passport (or biometric e-visa issued). Cost: AED 2,500-4,000 (government fees, medical test, Emirates ID). Processing time: 7-14 days for a standard renewal.
Investor/Freelance Visa Renewal
Similar to employment visa renewal, but you are the sponsor (through your company): ensure your UAE trade licence is valid before starting the visa renewal, apply via the free zone portal or AMER Centre, and submit company and personal documents as required. Important: if your trade licence has lapsed, renew it FIRST before renewing the investor visa. You cannot renew the visa against an expired licence.