Get Your Abu Dhabi Residence Visa Approved Quickly with These Essential Tips (Requirements)

Moving to Abu Dhabi? Securing a residence visa is a crucial step for expatriates planning to live, work, or invest in the UAE. Understanding the visa process, requirements, and latest updates can help streamline your application and improve your chances of approval.

This guide covers everything you need to know about residence visa requirements in Abu Dhabi, including types of visas, eligibility criteria, required documents, costs, and a step-by-step application process for a hassle-free experience.

Types of Residence Visa in Abu Dhabi

1. Work Residence Visa

Sponsored by an employer, this visa allows expatriates to legally work and reside in Abu Dhabi.

Process:

• Obtain a job offer from a UAE-based company.
• Employer applies for an entry permit.
• Undergo medical examination and fingerprinting.
• Receive security clearance.
• Employer applies for the Work Residence Permit.

Required Documents: ✔ Valid passport (minimum six-month validity)
✔ Passport-sized photographs
✔ Job contract
✔ Educational certificates (attested)
✔ Health certificate
✔ Entry permit issued by the employer

2. Family Residence Visa

Allows an expatriate to sponsor their immediate family members.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 with employer-provided accommodation.
• Suitable housing for dependents.

Required Documents: ✔ Proof of kinship (marriage and birth certificates attested)
✔ Salary certificate from employer
✔ Housing documents (rental agreement or property ownership)
✔ Medical examination reports for dependents
✔ Emirates ID application
✔ Health insurance coverage

3. Real Estate Residence Visa

Ideal for individuals investing in property within Abu Dhabi’s designated zones.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Ownership of a residential unit in an approved zone.
• Minimum property value of AED 2 million for long-term residency.

Process:

• Purchase property in an eligible area.
• Submit ownership documents.
• Undergo security checks.

Benefits: ✔ Long-term residency without an employer sponsor
✔ Potential rental income
✔ Right to reside in Abu Dhabi (but no work permit granted)

4. Golden Visa

A long-term residence visa granted to investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and exceptional students.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Investors with AED 2 million in public investments.
• Entrepreneurs with business startups in key sectors.
• Skilled professionals earning AED 30,000+ per month.
• Outstanding students with a GPA of 3.8+ from UAE-based universities.

Benefits: ✔ 10-year renewable residency
✔ No need for a national sponsor
✔ Ability to sponsor family members for the same duration
✔ Access to exclusive government incentives

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Ensure all required documents are attested and translated into Arabic (if necessary).

Step 2: Employer or Sponsor Submission

For work and family visas, the employer or sponsor submits the application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) Portal or TAMM.

Step 3: Medical Examination & Fingerprinting

Conducted at government-approved medical centers, including:

• Blood tests
• X-rays
• Fingerprinting

Step 4: Security Clearance

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) reviews medical results before granting approval.

Step 5: Residence Permit Issuance

Upon approval, the residence visa is issued, allowing legal residency in Abu Dhabi.

Checking Visa Status & Printing Visa

You can track your residence visa status through:

1. ICP Smart Services Website

• Visit ICP Smart Services Portal.
• Select Visa Services > Visa Inquiry & Printing.
• Enter your Visa Number or Passport Number.
• Click Submit to view status.

2. TAMM Mobile App

• Download TAMM (available on iOS & Android).
• Login with your Emirates ID.
• Navigate to Visa Services.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Process

✔ Double-check documents for accuracy before submission.
✔ Use TAMM for online tracking and digital applications.
✔ Stay updated on salary & housing requirements for family visas.
✔ Verify all documents are attested and translated as needed.
✔ Check for policy updates on the ICP Smart Services Portal.

Abu Dhabi Residence Visa Costs

Note: Fees are subject to change, so always check with the relevant authorities.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a residence visa in Abu Dhabi is a structured process that varies based on visa type. Whether applying for a work visa, family visa, real estate visa, or Golden Visa, ensuring all requirements are met and staying informed about recent updates will increase your chances of success.

📌 Stay prepared, follow the correct steps, and make your transition to life in Abu Dhabi seamless!