Who needs to apply for a change of visit-to-residence visa status in Dubai?

A status amendment (visit → residence visa) is required when an individual holding a visit or entry permit becomes eligible for a new sponsor, for instance, due to securing employment, family sponsorship, or investor status—and needs to convert their visa without leaving the UAE. A change of the visit visa to a residence visa in Dubai is also mandatory if a new entry permit has been issued under new sponsorship and the previous permit (visit or entry) has been or will be cancelled, so that the residence visa stamping can proceed. The applicant must apply before the current permit expires or during any applicable grace period to avoid penalties.

Can I change a visit visa to a residence visa in Dubai without having to leave the country?

Dubai's GDRFA offers the Status Amendment service, which allows in-country conversion from a visit or entry permit to a residence visa under a new sponsor. You can complete the procedure through digital channels (GDRFA online/innovative application) or via AMER Centres. All required documents, including the medical fitness test, insurance, Emirates ID registration, and sponsor approvals, must be provided. Visitors may begin with sponsorship and later complete a sponsored visit visa status change .

How long does it take to convert a tourist visa to a residence visa in the UAE?

In many straightforward cases, once all documents are submitted correctly, the visa status change may be finalised in 1–2 working days. However, this depends on the case complexity, and whether medical fitness, insurance, Emirates ID verification or sponsor documentation are entirely in order. If any documents are missing or invalid, or if supplementary approvals are required, the process may take longer. EGSH provides professional assistance with preparing and submitting your application for a visit visa conversion, as well as verifying your documents to help avoid mistakes and delays.

What are the official fees for a visit-to-residence visa status change in Dubai?

According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai, the official fee for a visa status amendment is AED 500, in addition to AED 10 Knowledge Dirham and AED 10 Innovation Dirham. A file opening fee also applies— AED 15 for an individual file or AED 50 for an establishment file. Applicants should also budget for mandatory related services for an in-country visa change in the UAE, which are separate from the status amendment fee, including: Medical fitness test (required for all new residence visas, fees vary by category and emirate). Emirates ID issuance and biometrics are charged by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP). Health insurance, which must be valid in Dubai, is required for the issuance of a residence visa. EGSH provides applicants with a comprehensive breakdown of the applicable government charges before submission.

Can I apply for a change in my UAE visa status online?

Applications for a change of visa status in the UAE can be submitted via the GDRFA innovative services platforms, including the official website and smartphone app. Applicants must log in using their UAE Pass, complete the form, and pay the required fees. However, there is a risk of errors in data entry or incomplete document submission with online applications, which may lead to delays or rejection. Submitting applications through EGSH, an authorised AMER centre, ensures professional verification and direct filing.

What would happen if I applied for a status change after my UAE visa had expired?

Under UAE immigration regulations, a person who remains in the country after the expiry of a visit or entry permit is considered an overstayer and is subject to a fine of AED 50 per day. The visit to residence visa status change can only be processed if the applicant holds a valid new entry permit issued by the sponsor, and the previous permit has been cancelled. If the application is submitted after the expiry, all outstanding fines for overstay must be settled through the GDRFA system before the status amendment request can be accepted. For this reason, it is mandatory to apply for a visa status change before your permit expires or during the official grace period provided by the authorities.

Visit to Residence Visa Status Change in Dubai, UAE

Home/
AMER Services/
Services/
Visa and Immigration/
Visit to Residence Visa Status Change

What Is a Visit to Residence Visa Status Change in the UAE

In-Country Visa Conversion Under GDRFA Rules

A visit to residence visa status change is an official service provided by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) that allows a person to convert a visit or entry permit into a residence visa without leaving the UAE. The process is mandatory when a visitor becomes eligible for sponsorship under an employer, family member, or investor and must complete the legal transition from temporary stay to residency.

The service is required when an individual has secured employment, is sponsored by a family member, or obtains investor status. It must be completed before the current visit visa expires or during the grace period, ensuring legal continuity of stay.

Through EGSH, an authorised AMER centre, the application is prepared, verified, and filed with GDRFA Dubai. Clients receive personalised, professional support throughout the entire process, with the status amendment completed within the official timeframe, typically two working days.

Change Your Visit Visa Status to Residence in Dubai

Officially regulated fees
No hidden charges
Queue-free service
VIP support at no extra cost

From AED 616

+971 4 612 1810

Visit Our Centre

Meet with an EGSH specialist to start your visa change application.

Submit the Documents

Provide passport copies, the sponsor’s residence permit, the cancelled permit, and the new entry permit.

Pay the Service Fees

Pay the GDRFA charges, including the status amendment fee and applicable surcharges.

Receive the Amended Visa

The amended visa status is issued within two working days through the GDRFA systems.

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–5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am–12:00 pm, 2:00 pm–5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Call +971 4 612 1810 WhatsApp

Applicant’s Passport

A valid copy of the sponsored person’s passport, presented at the time of application.

Sponsor’s Documents

A copy of the sponsor’s passport and a valid residence permit for Dubai.

Cancelled Permit

A copy of the previously cancelled entry or residence permit.

New Entry Permit

A copy of the newly issued entry permit for the new visa category.

About EGSH

Authorised AMER Centre for Visa Services in Dubai

EGSH is the first VIP government services hub in the UAE, uniting more than ten government authorities under one roof, enabling most procedures to be completed in a single visit. EGSH operates as a licensed AMER Centre under the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai.

For visa status changes, clients are served without queues or delays. Each applicant is assigned a dedicated consultant who oversees document verification, submission through GDRFA systems, and settlement of fees. The entire process is completed in one visit, with the updated residence visa issued within 48 hours.

Authorised AMER Centre for Visa Services in Dubai

Why EGSH

EGSH makes all public services available in one place—fast, transparent, and compliant. We deliver convenience, personalised support, and priority processing for every client, focusing on innovation and sustainability.

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.

Investor / Partner Visa

Obtain a UAE residency by investing in or partnering with a Dubai-licensed company.

From AED 1,196

Spouse Residence Visa

Sponsor your husband or wife for legal residency in the UAE through an authorised process.

From AED 1,086

New Born Residence Visa

From AED 536

All Services

View all Visa & Immigration Services

Still have any questions?

Explained by

Amna Issa Abbas

Visa & AMER Services Consultant at EGSH

Amna Issa Abbas is a dedicated AMER centre service provider with two years of proven experience in delivering immigration and customer services, supporting clients, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

About the Expert

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 Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Best service ever. Special thanks to Mirabelle — she is extremely efficient with property transfers and always makes the process smooth and hassle-free.

Big thanks to ZARA for her amazing support! She was extremely helpful when my employee approval got stuck in the Amer system. She went the extra mile to sort it out quickly. Her responsiveness made all the difference, greatly appreciated!!!

Very professional and friendly. They made the property transfer easy and smooth. Golden visa process seamless and thanks to Maya that all the staff (In particular to Maya!!!).

Zara was very helpful and professional. All the documents were submitted very fast by her and the service we received were very efficient. Highly recommend!

Natalia was very professional, she was a pleasure to deal with. Answering my questions, always responsive to phone calls and very prompt at providing updates at each stage of golden visa application which was very quick to process.

had an excellent experience with EGSH. They truly live up to their promise of one-stop government services, handling everything with efficiency and professionalism from start to finish.

I had a wonderful experience. She provided outstanding service with great professionalism and care. Everything was handled smoothly and efficiently. I truly appreciate her dedication and would definitely recommend her services to others

Zara helped to get my Ejari completed. I recommend service here

Maria Claudia garcia helped me to renew my kids Emirates id. She went the extra mile to help me and she was so efficient and her communication skills are amazing. I would recommend the ESGH Emirates government services in barsha anytime. Thank you Maria for your help

Such a great service with an amazing and friendly environment and i would like to specially thank zara for her exceptional professionalism and support.

Had a great experience at Emirates Government Service Hub. Zara Moshiri truly went above and beyond to help me with my visa. I was facing a few issues during the process, and she handled everything patiently and professionally until it was sorted. Really grateful for her support — definitely ask for her when you visit this branch.

I would like to recognize the exceptional service I received from Umida at EGSH. From the very first minute, she made me feel genuinely welcome and at ease. Navigating the documentation required for a Golden Visa can be complex, yet Umida went far beyond what is typically expected — guiding me through every requirement with clarity, professionalism, and patience.

We are extremely pleased with the excellent visa services provided by EGSH in Dubai. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, efficiency, and deep expertise in handling visa applications for our workforce.

Ms. Zara Moshiri is extremely professional, patient, and supportive. She provided clear and thorough guidance and took the time to answer all my questions. I truly appreciate her help and highly recommend working with her.

Outstanding Service and Professionalism My wife and I recently applied for and obtained our 5-year Golden Visa (Retiree) in an exceptionally short time — mine in three days and my wife’s in just one day. We are extremely satisfied with the service provided by EGSH Emirates Government Service Hub.

Exceptional service every step of the way For showing your great example of services Remarkable dedication of consultant mrs Maria Garcia regalado. Thank you EGSH service Hub team

Amazing service! They went above and beyond to assist and resolved my concern there and then! Highly recommended anyone to visit this centre, the ladies are very helpful

Went there for a consulting. Booked an appointment in advance thro their website. Came early — no line — which is good. Very pleasant interior. My consultant Rachel, was polite. Answered all my questions. Can’t judge regarding the process once applied for an exact service, but consulting went well.

Amazing support and communication during the whole process. Rachel, Yara and Maria were super well organized and assisted in record time. We finished the whole process from star to end in 4 business days for 10 year Golden Visa!

I had an excellent experience with the wonderful help of Maria Claudia Garcia. Her professionalism and attention to detail made the whole process easy.

They are really very amazing very kind I was having problem with my residency and my license miss Zara and miss Amna they really help me from start to end and they are really very kind and professional highly recommend if any wants to setup there business go with egsh and thanks miss Zara 🙏 you are really very amazing person

I had a pleasure being assistanced by Ms. Natalia today and her support throughout the process. Everything was smooth, super professional, efficient and high level service was exceptional. Highly recommended for anyone looking for reliable and smooth government-related services.

I had such a great experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub)! Everything went super smoothly, and the team was really helpful. A big shout‑out to Ms. Zara Moshiri—she was kind and supportive the whole way through. Truly appreciate it!

Super quick and efficient service. Maria was available via WhatsApp and responded very quickly to all messages.

I got a delightful service from them to upgrade my visa category half of the expected timeline. Compared with my previous place, this the best and I would like to recommend any of visa service for all of you. * reasonable fair (I was asked twice my previous what I paid). * fast service and delivering before timeline. * Authentic service. Thank you so much Maria for your dedicated service.!

An exceptional service from Zara at EGSH. She guided us perfectly through the process and managed to get us even more than we had anticipated. A world class service center with exceptional staff. Would recommend them to anyone who wants to get sorted for government services

Hello, My Name is Kelvin it was my first time to hear EGSH Emirates Govt from my sponsor. I was assisted By Mrs Maria Claudia Garcia the experience was amazing from the beginning to the End she has been supporting and guiding me through all the process. I am grateful to her and the entire team for the help. I trust and believe EGSH is a place to recommend to family members and friends.

A very hassle free experience from EGSH. Special mention of Ms.Zara who was most helpfull. Her quick response to queries and swift action are much appeciated.

We had the pleasure of being assisted by the lovely Ms Maria and Ms Randa. They were clear concise and super professional throughout our whole process of renewing our Ejari and business licence. Maria provided continued support while we were waiting for our business Ejari to come through and made it a simple seamless process.

EGSH in art of living is the best Hub center for every thing that you want in dubai Specially Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI is the advisor and assistance and she is beside you in every step Thank you Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI and EGSH

I recently visited this institution had an exceptional experience! Ms. Maria Claudia took the time to understand my needs and preferences. I really appreciate her support and services.

Good morning, I needed to apply for the Golden Visa and went to this EGSH Emirates office. I was very impressed by their facilities and the peaceful atmosphere. We were fortunate to be assisted by María Claudia García, who provided exceptional service. She advised and helped us every step of the way, guiding us through the entire process until we obtained the Golden Visa.

I would like to express my appreciation to Ray from EGSH for his outstanding assistance in handling the transfer of our property at Rove Hotel. He was very helpful, accommodating, and patient throughout the entire process, from addressing transaction concerns and verifying documents to the actual property transfer and ensuring the new owner received the title deed…

I worked with Amir and Zara, they took care of everything, I only had to send the mandatory information. In a very short time, everything was completed. I was amazed, considering how difficult it had seemed before. Not to mention, the fees were the same or even lower than those of the other companies I mentioned. For me, it was a 10/10 experience, the quickest and smoothest process someone could have in this journey. Strongly recommend them.

Zara assisted me with my Ejari registration, and she was absolutely amazing. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and delivered everything promptly. Truly a pleasure to work with!

THE BEST!!! Zara you are as always star

Thanks to EGSH and to Zara for Excellent service — professional, attentive, and truly pleasant experience. Highly recommended!

Had an amazing service for the transfer of property there, specially Rachel Rahmat she was very helpfull throughout the process, looking forward to work more.

Visited for the first time for a property transfer and had an amazing experience with Jessieca! She was professional, helpful, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for all government services excellent customer service!

Personally, I find this the best centre in Dubai. They always go the extra mile. Especially Maria Garcia has help out so much in such an efficient way! Thank you!

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

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.

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!

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

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❤️

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!

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

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!

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.

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

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 🤩

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.