UAE visa renewal and extension are distinct processes. Renewal applies to residence visas (employment, investor) due for their periodic renewal; extension applies to visit/tourist visas needing more time. Both processes have specific requirements and costs. This guide covers UAE visa renewal and extension for 2026.
In this guide:
UAE Residence Visa Renewal
- Employment visa: renewed every 2-3 years by the employer; employer initiates the process via MOHRE; employee undergoes medical fitness test and biometrics update; new Emirates ID issued
- Investor visa (free zone): renewed every 2-3 years tied to trade licence renewal; free zone company initiates via its portal; medical + Emirates ID renewal
- Timing: start renewal process 2-3 months before expiry; residence visa can be renewed up to 30 days before expiry date
- Overstay: if residence visa expires without renewal or grace period, overstay fines apply (AED 100-150/day depending on emirate); must pay before departure or renewal
UAE Residence Visa Renewal — Costs
- Medical fitness test: AED 200-300 (government hospitals in UAE; results within 24-72 hours)
- Emirates ID renewal: AED 372 (2-year card); AED 522 (3-year card); AED 672 (5-year card — for Golden Visa holders)
- Visa stamping (residence stamp in passport): AED 650-800 (varies by visa type and validity)
- Free zone visa renewal fees: included in most free zone renewal packages or charged separately (AED 1,000-2,500)
- Total estimated renewal cost (investor visa): AED 2,800-4,500
UAE Visit Visa Extension
- Standard tourist/visit visa: 30-day visa can be extended once for additional 30 days (AED 250-500 depending on type)
- 60-day visa: can be extended once for additional 60 days
- Process: apply via ICA UAE smart app (ica.gov.ae) or through a registered typing centre; apply before current visa expires
- Multiple-entry visit visa: cannot be extended; must depart and re-enter
UAE Visa Change of Status (Inside UAE)
- Some nationalities cannot change visa status inside UAE: must depart and re-enter on new visa type
- Visa change inside UAE: tourist to employment visa; employment to investor visa; possible if ICA and MOHRE approve without requiring departure
- Employer and free zone authority coordinate: employer/free zone submits new visa application while old visa is still valid; departure not required in most cases
Grace Period After Visa Expiry
- Standard employment/investor visa: 30-day grace period after expiry to leave UAE without overstay fine
- Green Visa: 180-day grace period (6 months) — a major advantage for self-sponsored workers
- Golden Visa: 6-month grace period (similar to Green Visa)
- Overstay fines: typically AED 100/day for first month; increases after that; must be paid at airport before departure