UAE Visa Status Change

Visa status changes in Dubai are available to individuals who are legally present in the UAE under a valid visa, entry permit, or visit status and have received approval for a new residence visa type. This applies to those changing their status due to employment, family sponsorship, property investment, or long-term residence. In most cases, the status change can be completed without exiting the UAE. However, specific categories of visitors — such as GCC nationals, specific nationalities, or holders of some entry permits issued by free zones or ICP — may be required to exit and re-enter the UAE to complete the process. The application must be submitted before the current visa or entry permit expires. EGSH verifies your eligibility, prepares all required documents, and submits your visa status change application through authorised GDRFA channels.

Visa status change in the UAE is officially available as an in-country process. It applies to individuals holding tourist, visit, or family visas who have obtained approval for a new employment, residence, or investor visa. The procedure must be completed before the current visa or entry permit expires and is processed through the GDRFA systems. EGSH provides legal support for in-country visa status changes, prepares your documents, and submits your application directly to the authorised channels.

The processing time for a visa status change in Dubai depends on the type of visa being converted. The procedure is completed within 1 to 3 working days after all required documents and approvals have been submitted. EGSH specialists provide end-to-end assistance with preparing and submitting your application, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all GDRFA regulations.

The government fee for a visa status change in the UAE ranges from AED 750 to AED 1,200, depending on the visa type. Additional costs may apply for related services such as medical fitness tests, Emirates ID application, and visa stamping fees.

To change the visa status from a tourist to an employment visa within the UAE, your employer must first apply for and receive a new work entry permit through MoHRE. Once approved, you can initiate an in-country visa status change without exiting the country. This includes updating your status, completing the medical fitness test, applying for an Emirates ID, and obtaining a visa stamp. EGSH prepares your documents, submits the application to GDRFA, and manages the complete status change process in compliance with UAE immigration rules.

A visa status change is available for family-sponsored cases in the UAE. If a family member holds a visit visa and has an approved residence entry permit under family sponsorship, the visa status can be updated in-country through the GDRFA. EGSH assists with verifying eligibility, preparing family sponsorship documents, and completing the visa status change process.