UAE Entry Permit | Requirements, Types & Application Guide

UAE fascinates individuals and families worldwide with its booming economy, world-class infrastructure, and diverse opportunities. Whether considering a move for business, work, or a family reunion, the first few things to be considered are the initial steps. Most of the time, the UAE entry permit is the first major step in obtaining a long-term residence permit in this more dynamic nation.

Introduction

UAE entry permit is essentially what allows you legal entry into the country while you apply for your permanent residence visa to be processed and stamped through the proper channels. The guide for 2025 will take you through everything you need to know about obtaining a UAE entry permit, from what it is to the costs and processes for application. With the complexities recognized, Arnifi is aimed at making this journey much less of a challenge, with special emphasis on ensuring that your transition to the Emirates is smooth.

What is a UAE Entry Permit?

A UAE entry permit is an important short-term document granting foreign nationals temporary authorization to enter the United Arab Emirates. It is different from a residence visa, which allows for a long-term stay. The entry permit is an invitation to go to the UAE, specifically granted to initiate the residence visa application. After entering with the UAE entry permit, the foreign national will carry out all the processes required to convert it to an actual residence visa, such as a medical test and Emirates ID registration. The UAE entry permit usually has a validity of 30 days to 90 days from the date of issue, so there is enough time to enter the country. These permits are issued mainly by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) as well as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the corresponding Emirates, depending on the type of sponsor and application location.

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Types of UAE Entry Permits

Familiarization with the different types of UAE entry permits is critical since they are made for specific purposes and therefore have different requirements.

Employment Entry Permit

This permit is meant for individuals who have obtained an offer of employment from a company based in the United Arab Emirates. It permits an individual to enter the country to conclude employment matters, such as medical tests and visa stamping. The employer normally will sponsor and apply for this UAE entry permit.

Investor/Partner Entry Permit

This UAE entry permit is for entrepreneurs and investors who would like to start or collaborate with a business in the UAE, allowing them entry to finalize the business registration process and residence visa related to the investment. It is frequently tied to free zone or mainland company formation.

Family/Dependent Entry Permit

When an individual sponsors his or her family members (spouses, children, parents) for residence in the UAE, a family UAE entry permit is applied for. This way, the dependents can enter the country while the long-term residence visa is being processed under the primary sponsor’s visa.

Visit/Tourist vs. Residence Entry Permit

A standard visit or tourist visa, is one that generally cannot be classified as a UAE entry permit with residence application purposes. While both allow entry, the latter is specifically given to convert into a residence visa.

Retirement / Special Category Entry Permits

The UAE also offers entry permits specifically for retirees, talented persons, and those under specific long-term residence schemes; all such categories are meant to provide an easy pathway for a corresponding residence visa.

UAE Entry Permit Requirements

Obtaining a UAE entry permit involves the submission of essential documents, meeting defined criteria, and largely depends on the type of entry permit. Normally, applicants would require:

• Passport copy: Clear, colored copy of the applicant’s passport, which should be valid for six months onward.
• Passport-sized photograph: Recent, colored photograph meeting UAE visa specifications (white background).
• Application form: Duly filled application forms, mostly submitted by e-mail.
• Sponsor documents:  Depending on the category, this could include:
  • Employment: Offer letter, the company’s trade license copy, and establishment card.
  • Investor: Company formation documents, bank statements, investment proof.
  • Family: Sponsor’s passport and visa copy, marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificate (for children), salary certificate, tenancy contract.

Extra documents may also be educational certificates for employment permits and proof of financial solvency for investor permits. Notes on medical and background clearance are important steps taken just after entering the UAE with the UAE entry permit for finalization of the residence visa, but those are not directly for the permit itself.

UAE Entry Permit Cost

The cost of a UAE entry permit can vary greatly based on type, sponsor, and whether the application is for mainland or free zone residency. It is essential in 2025 to take into consideration all related costs for precise budgeting.

Typical Government Fees:

• Employment Entry Permit: The government fees are usually in the range of AED 250-500. This is generally borne by the employer.
• Investor/Partner Entry Permit: These are on the higher side, which varies from AED 500-1,500, mostly linked with company setup costs.
• Family/Dependent Entry Permit: Fees generally range between AED 200 and AED 400 per dependent.

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Extra Charges:

• Typing Centre Fees: If you are using a typing centre for application submission, an extra service charge may apply (e.g., AED 50 – AED 100).
• Medical Test: Although it does not function as an UAE entry permit fee, it is a mandatory step for a residence visa once entry is gained, costing approximately AED 250-500.
• Emirates ID: Another entry requirement, with fees ranging from AED 100 to 300 depending on the validity.
• Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit could, however, be required for certain categories, particularly for dependents.

Mainland vs. Free Zone: Although the costs can slightly differ due to varying authority regulations between the mainland and free zone, any renewal or extension of an expired UAE entry permit (if permitted) will be at an extra cost and will also attract fines.

Step-by-Step Process for Getting a UAE Entry Permit

While there are many standards to applying for a UAE entry permit, you can fall into simpler systems once you get it organized. A generalized stepwise process for 2025 is below:

• Sponsorship Application: First, sponsorship should be obtained. This could be from your employer (employment), your company (investor/partner), or a family member (dependents). The sponsor must apply for your entry permit on your behalf.
• Document Gathering: Collect all relevant documents, such as passport copies, photos, and supporting certificates, as required in the requirements section. Documents submitted must be clear with valid issuance and attestation, wherever required.
• Application Submission: The sponsor (or an authorized PRO or typing center) shall submit the application of UAE entry permit to the competent authority, either ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security), or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs), based on the Emirate and the type of sponsor. This can be done online or via approved typing centers.
• Payment of Fees: To pay government fees and any related expenses.
• Entry Permit Issuance: After approval, the UAE entry permit is issued, usually in the form of a digital document (e-visa or e-permit). This usually takes days, although, in some instances, it can be made faster.
• Entry into the UAE: Enter the country using your issued UAE entry permit. Please ensure to have a printout or a digital copy for immigration clearance.
• Transition to Residence Visa: After entering, you will then have a given time (usually 30-60 days) to complete the remaining processes for your residence visa, which include:
• Medical fitness test.
• Emirates ID application.
• Residence visa stamping in your passport or the system.

7. Why Work with Arnifi for UAE Entry Permits

The complexity of entry permit applications in the UAE can indeed be rather taxing. Endless times, an incomplete document, an accidental delay, or indecision about fee structures creates anxiety and a colossal waste of precious time. This is where Arnifi should come in as your trusted partner, ensuring a hassle-free and efficient process.

Streamlining the whole procedure by Arnifi includes:

• Checking eligibility and requirements: Our meticulous checks of your profile and documentation are to ensure compliance with all eligibility criteria for the respective UAE entry permit, preventing rejections due to oversights.
• Accurate fee breakdowns: Our transparent culture has helped us avoid unexpected charges by letting you know precisely what your government fees and all other costs are going to be, with no hidden surprises.
• Fast-tracking applications: Drawing from our knowledge and excellent relations with the authorities (ICP/GDRFA), we are able to follow and expedite your application so that your UAE entry permit is issued in the shortest possible time.

In addition to UAE entry permits, Arnifi provides a full range of visa services, including processing of residence visas, family sponsorship, and visa renewals. By working with Arnifi, you will receive specialized advice and support, ensuring that your transition to the UAE is effortless right from the first step.

8. FAQs

Q1. How long does it take to get a UAE entry permit?

Usually, the permit for entry to the UAE can be processed in 3-7 working days; this could be reduced to 1-2 days through express services. In contrast, complex cases or a lack of supporting documents can delay the process.

Q2. Can I enter the UAE without an entry permit?

No, the only exception is for tourist visas on-arrival/free entry, in which case a residence visa will not be applied for. To apply for a residence visa, you must possess a valid entry permit into the UAE.

Q3. How much does a UAE entry permit cost in 2025?

UAE entry permits for the government can put a hole in your pocket from AED 200 to AED 1,500, depending on what kind (employment, investor, family) it is and on which specific emirate. Additional costs like those charged by typing centers, medical tests, and Emirates ID should also be budgeted for (post-entry).

Q4. Can an entry permit be extended?

Most likely, a UAE entry permit issued for residency is not extendable. If you are unable to enter the UAE within the validity of such a permit, you may have to apply again for a new one. However, some visit visas (which are not residence entry permits) may allow for extension while individuals are still within the UAE.

Q5. What happens if my entry permit expires before visa stamping?

If your UAE entry permit has expired before your residence visa has been completely processed and stamped, you are likely to incur a fine for overstaying. It is necessary to complete all procedures about residence visas (medical test, Emirates ID) within the validity of the permit. Should this extend beyond that, consult with your sponsor or with a visa expert such as Arnifi immediately.

9. Conclusion

Getting UAE entry Permits is the pivotal first step towards living and working in the UAE. This is the entry pass for which the rigorous process of getting a long-term residency visa begins. Knowing the types of entry, requirements, costs, and stepwise procedure for a UAE entry permit gives a good start to your new life, quite smoothly and legally. With the involvement of many complications, it takes a lot to associate with experienced professionals like Arnifi. We would simplify the entire process from getting you your first UAE entry permit to your full residence visa and beyond. Do not let paperwork stand between you and your purpose; get in touch with Arnifi today and receive customized solutions tailored to ensure a smooth start to your journey in the UAE.