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.
Change Your Visa Status in Dubai
Officially regulated fees
No hidden charges
Queue-free service
VIP support at no extra cost
From AED 636
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–Thursday, Saturday: 9:00 am–3:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am–12:30 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.

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.
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. Visa status changes typically start after UAE residence visa cancellation.
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?
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