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Legal Support for Visa Status Change in Dubai and UAE

Avoid Unnecessary Exits with Our In-Country Visa Change Process

Visa status change in the UAE is an official procedure that allows residents and visitors to legally update their visa type without leaving the country. This service applies when changing from a tourist or visit visa to a residence, employment, or investor visa. It is required to ensure continuous legal status in the UAE before the expiry of the current visa or entry permit.

The process is commonly used by individuals starting a new job, joining a family sponsorship program, or applying for a renewable long-term residence visa, such as the 5- or 10-year Golden Visa. All applications are submitted through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) using official in-country channels.

EGSH, as a licensed AMER Centre, assists with every step of your visa status change. Our team verifies your eligibility, prepares the required documents, submits your application to the GDRFA, and completes the status change in one visit, without requiring you to leave the UAE.

Avoid Unnecessary Exits with Our In-Country Visa Change Process

How to Legally Change Your Visa Status in the UAE

In-Country Change Process in 4 Clear Steps

01

Visit Our Centre

Start your visa status change request and get expert guidance from EGSH.

02

Submit the Documents

Provide your current visa, new sponsor details, and other required documents.

03

Complete Medical and Biometrics

Take the medical test and register your Emirates ID biometrics as part of your application.

04

Pay Fees and Receive Visa Stamp

Settle all fees. Your residence visa is approved and stamped without exiting the UAE.

Visit EGSH for VIP Service Without Queues

You can stop by EGSH during working hours without an appointment or book your visit at a time that suits you best.

Address
Art of Living Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai

Operating hours
Monday — Saturday: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

What Documents Are Required to Change Visa Status

Proper Paperwork Ensures Smooth Processing

Passport Copy

Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of application.

Current Visa or Entry Permit

A clear copy of your active visa or valid entry permit for the UAE.

Passport-Sized Photo

Recent colour photo on white background, as per GDRFA requirements.

New Entry Permit or Supporting Document

Proof of eligibility for status change, such as a job offer or family sponsorship.

About EGSH

Legal Experts in UAE Immigration Transitions

EGSH is a government-authorised AMER Centre, officially licensed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), to process visa status changes in Dubai.

All steps — from eligibility check to document submission and fee settlement — are carried out in full compliance with GDRFA regulations and through direct access to official systems.

Clients receive legally accurate support, streamlined processing, and the ability to complete the visa status change in a single visit without exiting the UAE.

Legal Experts in UAE Immigration Transitions

Why EGSH

Our Mission

To simplify life in Dubai by providing secure, seamless access to all government and real estate services from a single centre.

Our Vision

To set the benchmark for integrated government solutions, delivering efficiency and exceptional client care across the UAE.

Our Values

Transparency, efficiency, innovation, and complete client satisfaction.

Related UAE Visa & Immigration Services

Visa Extension
Extend your UAE visit or tourist visa legally and without exit.
Visa Cancellation
Cancel your UAE residency visa with EGSH.
Health Insurance Services
Individual medical plans for quality healthcare in Dubai.
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View all Visa & Immigration Services

Who is eligible for a visa status change in Dubai?

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.

Is it possible to change visa status in the UAE without exiting the country?

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.

What is the processing time for visa status changes in Dubai?

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.

What is the total fee for a visa status change in the UAE?

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.

How do I change my visa status in the UAE if I switch from a tourist visa to an employment visa?

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.

Can I change the visa status for family-sponsored visas?

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.

Still have any questions?

Why Choose EGSH for Visa Status Change in UAE

Avoid Fines and Rejections With Expert Support

Government-Authorised AMER Centre

Licensed by GDRFA to provide official AMER services for visa applications, renewals, and immigration processing in Dubai.

One-Stop Service

All procedures, document submissions, and payments are handled in one place, eliminating the need to contact multiple offices.

Confidentiality Guaranteed

All personal data and documents are processed securely and confidentially in accordance with UAE law.

Multilingual Support

Our team speaks several languages, ensuring clear communication for clients of almost all backgrounds.

Personalised Assistance

Each client is assigned a dedicated consultant for individual support throughout the process.

Flexible Appointment Scheduling

Book your visit at a convenient time—our office is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, to accommodate your schedule.

What Our Clients Say About Us

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Went there for ejari cancellation. Excellent place. Staff was so cooperative. Ms Maria and Ms Fatima assist me and it was a fast process.

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This is probably the best government service hub in Dubai. You come in, asked to be seated, and the staff will come to you instead of standing on the reception and on queue. They will offer you tea and water are available at each table. Really embodies the Emirati hospitality and what seamstresses Dubai is known for.

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I was here the morning of this post. The concierge like service with a contact person arranging for you all the difeerent interactions is making the interactuon as smooth as possible. A truly delightful experience and a true commitment to service excellence, thank you for the great experience and for the initiative to present government interactions in this way!

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Outstanding service — fast, friendly, and highly professional. Thank you very much!

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I’ve been here for the first time and I can say that this organization definitely worth to come here and make all proceeds with their help! We were changing the owner and such difficult process was really easy for us with your help and most of the time it was done online. So I’m very grateful to Mrs Zara and her support during all the process❤️

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I had an excellent experience with Natalia Baiamonte from EGSH while getting Ejari certificate. From the very beginning, she was professional, attentive, and extremely helpful. Natalia guided me through the process clearly, answered all my questions with patience, and made task feel simple and stress-free. Highly recommend Natalia for her outstanding customer service and dedication!

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We had great experience with Amal She is so helpful and awesome She stayed with us over her duty today just to finish her work Thanks Amal

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I had a really good experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub). Everything went smoothly and the team was super helpful. Special thanks to Zara and Amal. they were so supportive and kind throughout the process. Really appreciate it!

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I had a great experience with this office. They handle everything related to company setup, residency, Golden Visa, DLD, and more. The office is very clean, modern, and welcoming, and the staff are extremely professional and polite. A special thank to Ms. Zara for her kindness and guidance throughout the process so smoothly and professionally, and to Ms. Amal for managing the administrative registration.

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Zara is the best always attentive to every requests and helping with a solving problems without delay thank you Zara❤️🌸 …

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Absolutely stunning office, i am awestruck. No one can beat Dubai for the kind of hospitality you get in a government office… Its mind-blowing 😍 i wish i could give a 10 star rating (double) on 5 🤩

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I had a great experience with EGHS. I was assisted by Sarah Almeida and she delivered an amazing service. Very attentive, promptly responded my messages and guided me throughout the process. It was all very smooth and done very quickly. I highly recommend and I’ll definitely use their services again.

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I received really attentive and fast service from Sarah, got all the documents even earlier than promised. Thank you! 😁

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One of the best people to work with. These guys are really smart and professional. Thanks to Ms Zara

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Zara helped me with my services and the process was very easy and she was very helpful