The process of applying for visas in Dubai through government organizations, such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), varies depending on the type of visa (e.g., tourist visa, work visa, family visa, etc.). Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for applying for visas in Dubai through the relevant government organizations.

1. Tourist Visa Application (Through GDRFA or Airlines)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Choose the Type of Visa:

   • Short-Term Tourist Visa (30 days).
   • Long-Term Tourist Visa (90 days).
   • Multiple Entry Tourist Visa.

2. Eligibility Check:

   • Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for a tourist visa (passport validity, sponsorship, etc.).

3. Documents Needed:

   • Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
   • Recent passport-sized photographs.
   • Confirmed return ticket.
   • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).
   • Financial proof (bank statements or salary slips).
   • Travel insurance (recommended).

4. Application Submission:

   • Apply through the GDRFA website or Dubai-based airlines (e.g., Emirates, Fly Dubai) for online applications.
   • Alternatively, you can apply through a travel agency authorized by the government.
   • Online Application: Fill in the visa details and upload the required documents.

5. Payment of Fees:

   • Pay the application fees via the online payment portal or through a travel agency.

6. Visa Approval:

   • Processing time: Usually 3-5 working days.
   • If approved, the tourist visa is sent to the applicant via email or SMS.

7. Visa Collection:

   • Some visas may require the applicant to visit the GDRFA or Dubai International Airport for physical stamping.

2. Employment Visa (Work Visa)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Secure Employment Offer:

   • You need to have a job offer from a company registered in Dubai, which will act as your sponsor.

2. Documents Needed:

   • Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
   • Passport-sized photographs.
   • Job offer letter from the employer.
   • Medical fitness certificate (if applicable).
   • Educational certificates (attested and verified).
   • Company’s trade license and other company details.

3. Employer Sponsorship:

   • The employer applies for the Labor Card (also known as the work permit) from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
   • After approval, the Labor Card is issued.

4. Visa Application:

   • The employer submits the residency visa application with GDRFA.
   • Pay the application fees.

5. Medical Fitness Test:

   • Once the application is submitted, you must undergo a medical test at an accredited medical center in Dubai.
   • This includes blood tests and chest X-ray.

6. Visa Stamping and Emirates ID:

   • After medical clearance, the residency visa will be stamped in your passport.
   • The employer will apply for an Emirates ID from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).

7. Visa Collection:

   • Once approved, the employer will receive the work visa, and the employee can begin working in Dubai.

3. Family Visa (Spouse, Children, and Parents)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Eligibility Check:

   • To sponsor your family, you must meet certain criteria (e.g., minimum salary requirement, accommodation, etc.).
   • Family members can include spouse, children (under 18), and parents.

2. Documents Needed:

   • Passport copy of the sponsor and family members.
   • Passport-sized photographs of family members.
   • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate for spouse, birth certificates for children, etc.).
   • Proof of accommodation.
   • Salary certificate or proof of income from the sponsor.
   • Health insurance (for some categories).

3. Application Submission:

   • The sponsor (employer or resident) applies through GDRFA to bring their family members.
   • If the family members are overseas, a Consular visa may also be required before entering Dubai.

4. Residence Visa Approval:

   • The sponsor submits the residency visa application through GDRFA.
   • Pay the visa fees for the family members.

5. Medical Fitness Test (for Adults):

   • The sponsored spouse/parent must undergo a medical fitness test.
   • Children under 18 usually do not need this test.

6. Visa Stamping and Emirates ID:

   • After approval, the family member’s visa is stamped on the passport.
   • Emirates ID will also be issued by the ICA.

7. Visa Collection:

   • Family members can then enter Dubai under the residence visa.

4. Student Visa (For International Students)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Enroll in a Recognized Educational Institution:

   • To apply for a student visa, you must be enrolled in a UAE-based school or university that is licensed by the Ministry of Education or KHDA.

2. Documents Needed:

   • Valid passport.
   • Passport-sized photographs.
   • University admission letter.
   • Health insurance.
   • Proof of financial support (bank statement or sponsorship).
   • Proof of accommodation.

3. Application Submission:

   • The educational institution can sponsor the student visa application.
   • Students apply through GDRFA or the relevant Freezone authority.

4. Visa Approval:

   • Once approved, the residence visa will be issued.
   • Students must undergo a medical fitness test as well.

5. Visa Stamping:

   • After medical clearance, the student visa is stamped in the passport.
   • The Emirates ID will also be issued.

6. Visa Collection:

   • Once approved, students can live and study in Dubai.

5. Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Eligibility Check:

   • The Golden Visa is granted to investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and specialized talent. Check eligibility requirements based on profession and investment.

2. Documents Needed:

   • Passport copy.
   • Proof of qualification (degree certificates, work experience).
   • Proof of investment or contribution to the UAE economy.
   • Health insurance.

3. Application Submission:

   • Apply through the GDRFA or Dubai’s relevant authority for the Golden Visa.
   • Applicants may apply directly or through a government-approved partner.

4. Approval:

   • The application will be reviewed by the authorities.
   • If eligible, you will be granted the Golden Visa.

5. Visa Stamping and Emirates ID:

   • After approval, the Golden Visa will be stamped on your passport.
   • The Emirates ID will also be issued.

6. Visa Collection:

   • Once granted, the visa will allow you to stay long-term in the UAE, with benefits for up to 10 years.

Conclusion

The visa application process in Dubai involves interaction with various government authorities, including the GDRFA, MOHRE, ICA, and others. Each type of visa requires specific documentation and procedures, with varying timelines for approval and visa issuance. It is essential to follow the step-by-step procedures outlined by the relevant government bodies and ensure compliance with their requirements to obtain your visa successfully.