For a long time, the acquisition of a residency permit was a time-consuming and cumbersome process. There were many steps, long waiting times, and constant physical visits.
These old practices plagued many professionals and families wanting to move to the UAE, causing relocation to become more than it needed to be. But recently, the government has initiated measures for hassle-free processing of residency permits. Let’s find out how!
Jitendra Business Consultants, JBC, offers professional PRO services to help you obtain your desired visas and permits to enter in UAE for various good purposes.
Simplified Visa Application Process in UAE
The UAE government has made major enhancements to simplify residency applications. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) now provides a digital solution that eliminates redundant paperwork and minimises processing time. Applicants can now apply, renew, or make changes to their residency permits via the official website or smart app of ICP using UAE Pass.
The process is easy:
- Log in to the ICP website or mobile application via UAE Pass.
- Choose the person for whom the service is sought.
- Select the service needed, view retrieved information, update if required, and pay the relevant fees.
- Get an e-approval notification by email.
- Obtain the Emirates ID linked to the residency permit through authorised couriers.
As for these amendments, applicants do not have to visit government agencies, making the process much easier.
Improved Visa Processing Speed and Digitalization
Earlier, candidates needed to provide physical copies and make trips to several offices. Today, everything is mostly digital, and delays are much less. New residency permits can now be issued to foreign workers and professionals through the Smart Services System on the ICP website or app. For those who prefer face-to-face services, Customer Happiness Centres are open during official working hours.
Applications are dealt with within 48 hours in case all documents required are submitted. Documents required are:
- A copy of the passport
- Recent photograph
- Additional documents as the case may be for the applicant’s status, e.g., relationship proof for family sponsorship
Now you don’t have to bother with unnecessary steps to obtain a visa in UAE.
The UAE Golden Visa: A Long-Term Residency Option
For long-term residents, the UAE offers the Golden Visa, a 5- or 10-year residency visa for investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals, and outstanding students. Unlike standard residency visas, the Golden Visa is not subject to a national sponsor and has several advantages, including:
- Six-month entry visa with multiple entries
- Long-term renewable residence visa (5 or 10 years)
- Right to leave the UAE for more than six months without forfeiting visa status
- Sponsorship of family members, such as spouses and children of any age
- Sponsorship of an unlimited number of domestic workers
- Family members may remain in the UAE even if the main visa holder dies
This visa is secure and stable, and thus appealing to professionals and investors looking for permanent residence in the UAE.
UAE Work Permit and Residency Integration
The government of the UAE has also launched a one-stop online platform known as the ‘Work Bundle.’ This platform was created in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. The platform enables private-sector workers to finalize all work and residency processes in a single location. The system has significantly cut down processing times by eliminating redundant visits and paperwork.
Major enhancements are:
- A 72% decrease in procedures needed
- A 93% decrease in fields needed on applications
- A 79% decrease in required documents
- A 77% decrease in physical visits
- An 83% decrease in total processing time
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has also introduced an AI-driven platform to further automate services such as issuing and renewing work permits and processing employment-related papers within less than two minutes.
The Future: A Fully Digital Residency Visa Process in UAE
Through automation and AI-based services, it has become easier and quicker than ever before to apply for residency permits in the UAE. Through the abolition of old practices and the adoption of digital technology, the government has simplified it for professionals, businesspersons, and families to come and settle down in the nation. These developments not only save time but also render the UAE more appealing to talent and investment. The era of queues and complex paperwork is now behind us, as the UAE advances toward a more streamlined, fully digital era for residency visas.
Find Expert PRO Services in UAE, Jitendra Business Consultants!
Obtaining a residency visa or work visa in UAE becomes extremely easy when you hire our skilled PRO service providers at JBC. Our experts know how to deal with regulatory authorities and get work done quickly. Consult our qualified and experienced PRO service providers today!
