UAE Residence Permit Card: Complete Guide (2025)

The UAE Residence Permit Card is an essential document for foreign nationals living and working in the United Arab Emirates. It legally allows expatriates to reside in the country and access essential services such as banking, healthcare, and housing.

What is a UAE Residence Permit?

The residence permit is a government-issued card that confirms an individual’s legal status to live in the UAE. It is typically linked to a work, family, student, or investor visa and includes personal details such as name, nationality, sponsor, visa type, and expiry date.

Who Needs a UAE Residence Permit?

All foreign nationals who plan to live in the UAE for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit. Categories include:

Employees sponsored by a UAE company
Family members sponsored by a UAE resident
Students at UAE-based institutions
Investors or property owners
Domestic workers

Types of UAE Residence Permits

Employment-Based Residence Permit
For professionals working in the private or public sector under a valid labor contract.
Family Sponsorship Permit
Issued to spouses, children, and dependent parents sponsored by a UAE resident.
Investor/Entrepreneur Permit
Granted to individuals who invest in the UAE economy or own property.
Golden Visa (Long-Term Residence)
A 5- or 10-year renewable visa for investors, highly skilled professionals, and outstanding students.
Student Visa
For international students enrolled in UAE universities.

Required Documents

While requirements vary by visa type, most residence permit applications require:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Entry permit or tourist visa (converted to residence status)
Recent passport-sized photos
Emirates ID registration form
Medical fitness certificate
Health insurance policy
Sponsor’s documents (for employment or family visas)

Application Process

Entry Permit Issuance
The sponsor (employer, university, or family member) applies for an entry permit.
Medical Fitness Test
Conducted at approved government health centers in the UAE.
Emirates ID Application
Biometric data is collected, and an Emirates ID is issued.
Visa Stamping or E-Residency Issuance
The residence permit is either stamped in the passport or issued as an electronic card.

Validity and Renewal

Standard residence permits are valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the visa type and sponsor.
Golden Visas and Investor Visas are valid for 5 or 10 years.
Permits must be renewed before expiration to avoid fines and legal issues.

Renewal Process:

Submit a renewal request through the ICP or GDRFA portals
Undergo a new medical test
Pay the applicable renewal fees
Receive the updated residence permit

Benefits of a UAE Residence Permit

Legal stay and employment in the UAE
Access to banking and financial services
Eligibility for health insurance and medical treatment
Ability to sponsor family members
Easy entry/exit at UAE airports

What Happens if Your Residence Permit Expires?

If a residence permit expires and is not renewed within the grace period (usually 30 days), penalties apply. The individual may face daily fines, visa cancellation, or even deportation in severe cases.