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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.

In-Country Visa Conversion Under GDRFA Rules

How to Change from a Visit Visa to a Residence Visa in Dubai

Four Clear Steps to Complete Your Status Amendment

01

Visit Our Centre

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

02

Submit the Documents

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

03

Pay the Service Fees

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

04

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 — Saturday: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Documents Required for Visit to Residence Visa Status Change

Mandatory Papers for In-Country Visa Conversion

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.

Related Real Estate Services in Dubai

Investor / Partner Visa
Obtain a UAE residency by investing in or partnering with a Dubai-licensed company.
Spouse Residence Visa
Sponsor your husband or wife for legal residency in the UAE through an authorised process.
New Born Residence Visa
Register your newborn’s residence visa within 120 days of birth to avoid fines.
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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.

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.

Still have any questions?

Why Change Your Visa Status With EGSH

Hassle-Free Visa Conversions Inside the UAE

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.

What Our Clients Say About Us

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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.

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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.

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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. I can’t thank these lovely ladies enough. We saved so much money going direct and it was refreshing knowing we are not over paying going through a PRO or typing service company that add so many fees. I saved over 6000aed just for reference. Thank you to EGSH staff. Especially Maria & Randa 🙏

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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

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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.

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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. Honestly, people with this level of professionalism and personal touch make one feel more at ease and integrated into this country. Thank you!

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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…

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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.

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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!

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THE BEST!!! Zara you are as always star

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

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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