Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai: Rules, Fees, and Process

The Employment Visa is one of the most crucial documents for professionals and business owners working in Dubai. It allows foreign nationals to legally live and work in the UAE under the sponsorship of an employer or a registered company. However, this visa is not permanent — it must be renewed periodically to maintain legal status in the country. Understanding the Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai process, associated fees, and government rules can help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about renewing your employment visa efficiently and hassle-free.

Why Employment Visa Renewal Matters

For companies operating in Dubai, timely renewal of employment visas ensures that their workforce remains legally employed and avoids disruptions. Employees, on the other hand, must renew their visas before expiration to maintain residency and access essential services such as healthcare, banking, and housing.

Dubai’s immigration authorities have streamlined the Dubai employment visa process to make renewals simpler, but accuracy and timing remain key to avoiding fines or delays.

Validity Period of Employment Visas in Dubai

Employment visas in the UAE are typically valid for two years for private sector employees and three years for government or free zone employees. Once the visa approaches its expiry date, it must be renewed through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

The employer (or sponsoring company) is responsible for initiating and completing the Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai before the expiration date.

Requirements for Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai

Before applying for renewal, ensure all requirements are fulfilled. Missing any document can lead to delays or rejection.

Here’s a checklist of essential documents:

• Employee’s Passport Copy (valid for at least six months)

• Original Emirates ID

• Passport-sized Photos (with white background)

• Renewed Labour Card issued by MOHRE

• Employment Contract (signed by both parties)

• Company Trade License (valid and renewed)

• Establishment Card of the company

• Medical Fitness Certificate (from an approved health center)

• Health Insurance Proof (mandatory for visa processing)

Ensuring these documents are accurate and up to date makes the Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai smooth and straightforward.

Step-by-Step Process for Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai

The renewal procedure is structured and must be completed in sequence. Below is a simple breakdown:

Medical Fitness Test

Employees must undergo a medical test at an authorized UAE health center. Once cleared, a medical fitness certificate will be issued.

Labour Card Renewal

The company renews the employee’s labour card with MOHRE. This step confirms that the employment contract remains valid and active.

Emirates ID Renewal Application

The next step involves submitting a renewal application for the Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP).

Visa Renewal Submission

The sponsoring company or PRO submits all documents to the GDRFA for final approval. This can be done online through the smart services portal or at a typing center.

Payment of Fees

Visa renewal fees depend on the visa type, company category, and employee level. Additional charges may apply for urgent processing.

Visa Stamping on Passport

Once approved, the renewed visa is stamped on the employee’s passport, confirming continued legal residency in the UAE.

Fees for Employment Visa Renewal

The Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai fees vary based on the company’s classification, employee’s profession, and duration of the visa. Generally, the cost includes:

• Visa Renewal Application Fee: AED 500 – AED 1,200

• Medical Test Fee: AED 300 – AED 700 (depending on urgency)

• Emirates ID Renewal: AED 370 – AED 500

• Typing Center Charges: AED 100 – AED 200

Optional express services may incur additional charges. It’s advisable to check with your PRO or business consultant for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure.

Common Reasons for Visa Renewal Delays or Rejections

While Dubai’s system is efficient, small errors can delay or even reject renewal applications. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Expired company trade license or establishment card

• Incomplete medical or insurance documentation

• Discrepancies between the labour contract and visa details

• Pending fines or violations against the company or employee

• Partnering with a professional business setup or visa service provider can help ensure your Dubai employment visa process runs smoothly from start to finish.

Renewal Grace Period and Penalties

After the visa’s expiration, employees typically have a 30-day grace period to renew their visa. During this period, they can continue to stay legally in the UAE. However, failing to renew within the grace period results in overstay fines that increase daily.

To avoid penalties, companies should begin the Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai process at least one month before expiration. Automated reminders and professional support can further prevent missed deadlines.

Tips for a Smooth Employment Visa Renewal

• Start Early: Begin the renewal process at least 30 days before the visa expiry.

• Verify Documents: Double-check the validity of trade licenses, contracts, and insurance.

• Use Online Portals: The GDRFA and MOHRE portals simplify the Dubai employment visa process and reduce manual paperwork.

• Seek Professional Assistance: Partnering with visa consultants saves time and ensures accuracy in submissions.

• Stay Updated on Regulations: UAE immigration laws evolve regularly—always stay informed of new requirements or fee changes.

Benefits of Timely Visa Renewal for Businesses

Timely renewal is not just a legal necessity but also good business practice. Here’s why it matters for employers:

• Maintains Workforce Stability: Avoids disruption in operations due to expired employee visas.

• Protects Company Reputation: Ensures compliance with UAE labour and immigration laws.

• Reduces Financial Risk: Prevents hefty fines and administrative delays.

• Builds Employee Trust: Employees feel secure when employers manage renewals efficiently.

Conclusion

The Employment Visa Renewal in Dubai is a vital process that safeguards both businesses and employees from legal and financial risks. With clear rules, predictable fees, and a structured procedure, the UAE has made visa renewals more efficient than ever.

To ensure a smooth renewal experience without errors or delays, partnering with experts is highly recommended. Go Kite Pro is recognized as the best provider of Business Setup Services in Dubai, offering complete visa and company support solutions tailored to your needs. From preparing documents to managing submissions, Go Kite Pro ensures your workforce remains compliant and your business runs without interruption.