Dubai is one of the most popular destinations for expats who want to live and work in a dynamic and cosmopolitan city. However, before you pack your bags and book your flight, there are some important things you need to know about the visa rules and procedures in the UAE.

Types of visas
Depending on your purpose of visit, duration of stay, and nationality, you may need to apply for different types of visas to enter Dubai. Here are some of the most common ones:

Visit visa: This is a short-term visa that allows you to stay in Dubai for up to 90 days. You can apply for this visa online or through a travel agent or airline. Some nationalities are eligible for visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry. You can check the list of these countries on the official website of the UAE government.

Tourist visa: This is a special type of visit visa that is designed for tourists who want to explore Dubai and other emirates. It is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. You can apply for this visa online or through a travel agent or airline.

Transit visa: This is a visa that allows you to stay in Dubai for up to 48 hours if you have a connecting flight to another destination. You can get this visa for free at the airport, or you can extend it for up to 96 hours for a fee of 50 AED.

Residence visa: This is a long-term visa that allows you to live and work in Dubai. You need to have a sponsor, such as an employer, a family member, or an investor, who will apply for this visa on your behalf. You also need to undergo a medical test and obtain a health insurance card. A residence visa is usually valid for two or three years and can be renewed.

Golden visa: This is a special type of residence visa that grants you a 10-year renewable stay in Dubai without a sponsor. You can apply for this visa if you are an investor, an entrepreneur, a professional, or a student with exceptional talents or achievements.

Green residence: This is a new type of residence visa that will be launched in 2023. It will allow expats who have retired or lost their jobs in Dubai to stay in the country for up to one year without a sponsor. They will also be able to sponsor their dependents.

How to apply

The process of applying for a visa may vary depending on the type of visa, your nationality, and your sponsor. However, here are some general steps that you need to follow:

• Check the eligibility criteria and requirements for the visa you want to apply for.
• Fill out the online application form and pay the fees.
• Submit the required documents, such as passport, photos, invitation letter, etc.
• Wait for the approval and receive your visa by email or courier.
• Print your visa and present it at the airport when you arrive in Dubai.

Tips and advice

Here are some tips and advice that can help you avoid any hassle or delay when applying for a visa:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Dubai.
• Check the validity and expiry date of your visa and renew it before it expires.
• Keep copies of your passport, visa, and other important documents with you at all times.
• Respect the laws and customs of Dubai and avoid any illegal or inappropriate activities.
• If you lose your passport or visa, report it immediately to the nearest police station and embassy.

Moving to Dubai can be an exciting and rewarding experience if you plan and follow the rules. With the right visa facilitation company like MEMS, you can enjoy the benefits and opportunities that this city has to offer without any hassles.