New Visa Rules in UAE & Latest Entry Requirements & More Changes For 2025
The UAE has introduced new visa rules that make it easier for people to visit, work, and invest in the country, offering more flexibility and extended stay options.
These updates are designed to attract tourists, business professionals, and investors by simplifying entry and exit regulations and offering new visa types.
For instance, holders of 90-day visitor visas can now extend their stay by an additional 30 days, allowing tourists to enjoy longer visits without the need to reapply.
The UAE has also introduced more opportunities for work visas, alongside key changes to the Golden Visa program, which benefits investors, entrepreneurs, and top talent.
In this article, I will guide you through the latest changes in UAE visa rules. We will cover everything from the new law on visas, the 3,000 dirham rule, transit visa extensions, and the updated regulations for obtaining and renewing the prestigious Golden Visa.
What Are The New Visa Rules in UAE? Latest Updates Related to All Visas
Now, we will check the latest updates and new visa rules in UAE for all types of visa.
New Visit Visa Rules in UAE for Family Sponsorship
The new family sponsorship rules in the UAE have become more inclusive, offering greater flexibility for parents to sponsor their children and other family members. Here’s a breakdown of the major updates:
Extended Sponsorship for Male Children
Under the updated rules, parents can now sponsor their male children until they turn 25. Now, families have more time to support their young adults as they pursue education or work opportunities in the UAE.
No Age Limit for Unmarried Daughters
Another important update is that unmarried daughters can now be sponsored by their parents without any age restrictions.
Unlimited Sponsorship for Children with Disabilities
Parents can now sponsor their children with disabilities indefinitely, ensuring that they receive the care and support they need without worrying about visa limitations.
Sponsorship for Family Members of UAE and GCC Citizens
If you are a citizen of the UAE or a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country, you can now sponsor more of your family members under the new visa rules. This applies to:
Children and spouses of GCC citizens who hold foreign passports.
Parents and children of UAE nationals with foreign passports.
Widowed female residents with children.
Entry Permits Without Sponsors
One of the most exciting aspects of the new rules is that visitors coming to see family or friends in the UAE no longer need a host or sponsor to apply for an entry permit. Whether it’s for a family reunion or a short visit, this update simplifies the process significantly, making it easier for families to reunite.
The same rule applies to work-related trips if the visitor is sponsored by their employer. Educational institutions and certain public or private organizations can also provide sponsorship for individuals coming to the UAE for training or study purposes, such as internships, educational courses, or work placements.
Re-entry Permits for Residents Staying Abroad
For those who hold UAE residence visas and have spent over six months outside the UAE, there is now a re-entry permit available. This permit allows residents to return to the UAE and maintain their residency status. You simply apply for the permit and return to the UAE within 30 days of approval.
Extending UAE Visit Visas for Family
Visitors to the UAE can now extend their visit visas for either 30 or 60 days. If needed, you can also apply for an additional 30-day extension without leaving the country, giving you more flexibility to stay with your family. The cost for extending a visit visa is around AED 1,100, though fees may vary based on your circumstances.
UAE New Rules for Employment Visa for 2025
Under the updated rules, the UAE government has streamlined the employment visa process, offering more flexibility and removing some of the previous barriers. One of the key updates includes the introduction of new visa types, designed to meet the needs of both employees and employers.
No Sponsorship Required for Job Exploration Visa
For skilled professionals and recent graduates, the Job Exploration Visa offers a unique opportunity to enter the UAE job market without the need for a sponsor or employer. This visa is especially valuable for graduates from the top 500 universities worldwide, as well as professionals in the first three skill levels.
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must:
Have a BSc or equivalent degree.
Be classified under the first three skill levels according to the UAE’s classification.
This allows young professionals and graduates to explore job opportunities and establish themselves in the UAE without immediate employment.
Business Entry Visa for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs and investors now have a more accessible path to enter the UAE’s thriving business environment. The new Business Entry Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to start or engage in business activities without requiring a sponsor.
This visa is designed to encourage more foreign investments and give entrepreneurs the freedom to navigate the business landscape in the UAE. Whether you’re looking to invest in real estate, set up a tech startup, or explore opportunities in retail, this visa provides the flexibility to operate freely.
Criteria for Employment Visa in the UAE
If you’re seeking an employment visa in the UAE, here are the basic criteria you must meet:
Minimum Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an employment visa.
Valid Employer License: The company hiring you must have a valid trade license and be legally operating in the UAE.
Labor Law Compliance: The employer must not have any violations of UAE labor laws.
Alignment of Work with Employer’s Operations: The job role you’re hired for must correspond with the business operations of the company.
The UAE’s new employment visa rules not only make it easier for workers to enter the market, but also offer extended flexibility for those already employed.
Employees can now switch jobs without leaving the country and seek new opportunities without waiting for visa cancellation from their previous employer.
Employer Responsibilities for Employment Visas
Employers must also adhere to specific responsibilities under the new rules. These include:
Ensuring that the visa application process is completed through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Providing a safe and compliant working environment for all employees.
Facilitating visa renewals and managing other visa-related documentation.
New Visa Extensions Rules in UAE for 2025
Extension for 90-Day Visitor Visas
One of the most significant changes is the ability to extend 90-day visitor visas. If you enter the UAE on a 90-day visa, you can now extend your stay by 30 additional days, allowing for a maximum stay of 120 days.
This extension can be done without leaving the UAE, making it a convenient option for tourists and business visitors who need more time in the country.
The extension can be processed at the same office where your visa was issued, and the current fee is AED 600.
Tourist Visa Extensions for All Types
All types of tourist visas can now be extended for an extra 30 days from within the UAE. Whether you’re on a short-term or long-term tourist visa, you can apply for the extension without the need to travel outside the country.
Under the new rules, managing your UAE visas, including extensions and cancellations, can now be done through an online personal account. This includes handling entry permits as well.
The new system offers greater convenience, allowing visitors to apply for extensions or cancel unused visas with ease.
The fee for extending a visit visa inside the UAE is AED 600, while canceling an unused entry permit costs AED 300. These processes can now be completed online, ensuring fast and efficient service.
Introduction of the Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
In addition to extensions, the UAE has also introduced a multi-entry tourist visa. This visa is valid for five years and allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days at a time, with the option to extend your stay for an additional 90 days. This means you can spend a total of six months per year in the UAE on a self-sponsored visa.
To qualify for this visa, applicants need to provide proof of having a bank balance of at least USD 4,000 in the last six months.
Important Notes on Visa Overstays
It’s essential to be aware of the penalties for overstaying your visa in the UAE:
A fine of AED 100 for the first day of overstay.
AED 50 for each additional day.
After the visa expires, you have a 10-day grace period to renew or leave the country without penalties. After the grace period, fines will begin to accumulate.
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that offers 5 or 10 years of residency to eligible individuals, depending on their qualifications.
It was initially introduced to attract investors and businesspeople but now includes a broader range of professionals, academics, and creatives, reflecting the UAE’s forward-looking approach to talent acquisition and development.
Who is Eligible for the Golden Visa?
Under the new rules, the eligibility criteria have expanded to cover various individuals, including:
Graduates from the top 100 universities in the world (as approved by the UAE Ministry of Education).
Entrepreneurs with innovative projects.
Scientists, doctors, and researchers contributing to significant advancements.
Humanitarian pioneers and those involved in social welfare.
Athletes and students with outstanding achievements.
Frontline workers and heroes during health crises, particularly those involved in medical care and public safety.
If you belong to one of these categories, the Golden Visa opens up numerous opportunities for you to establish long-term residency in the UAE.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa
Applying for the UAE Golden Visa has been simplified through digitized channels, making the process faster and more accessible. You can apply through:
The required documents for application are minimal — you only need a colored personal photo and a passport valid for six months. The total application fee is AED 350, covering all related expenses. Additionally, if you don’t use the visa within the specified time, you can apply for a one-time extension of 60 days.
UAE Green Visa New Rules for 2025
The UAE Green Visa was initially introduced in 2022, offering a 5-year residency for individuals who meet specific professional, educational, or investment criteria.
What sets this visa apart is its focus on self-sponsorship, which is perfect for highly skilled professionals, freelancers, and business owners looking for long-term residence options in the UAE.
Key Updates for Green Visa
In 2025, new rules have been introduced to streamline the process and expand the eligibility criteria, making it easier for more people to apply:
Expanded Eligibility for Freelancers and Entrepreneurs
The new regulations have relaxed requirements for freelancers and entrepreneurs, allowing more flexibility in proving financial solvency and income.
Freelancers with a Bachelor’s degree and an annual income of AED 36,000 can now qualify with proof of income over the last two years.
Skilled Professionals’ Criteria
Skilled professionals still need a valid employment contract, but now the monthly wage requirement has been set at AED 15,000 with the necessary educational qualifications, such as a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Simplified Investment Rules for Investors
For investors, the minimum total investment remains at AED 1,000,000, but the process for pooling investments from multiple licenses has been simplified. Investors can combine their contributions across different licenses and must have approval from the local government to ensure eligibility.
Easier Family Sponsorship
One of the most appealing features of the Green Visa is the ability to sponsor family members easily. The new rules now allow family members to benefit from the extended visa, making long-term residency planning more convenient for families.
Even more, family members can remain in the UAE for up to 6 months after the visa holder’s residency expires, giving them ample time to plan their future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the 3000 dirham rule?
The 3000 dirham rule requires travelers arriving in Dubai on a visit or tourist visa to carry a minimum of AED 3,000 in cash or available credit on their cards. Additionally, they must have a return ticket and proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking.
2. What are the new rules for visit visa in UAE?
The new UAE visit visa rules offer more flexibility and extended stay options. Key updates include:
Visitors can extend their 90-day visa for an additional 30 days, allowing a total stay of 120 days.
Family sponsorship rules have been expanded, allowing parents to sponsor male children up to 25 years and unmarried daughters without age limits.
A re-entry permit is now available for residents who have stayed outside the UAE for over six months.
3. What is the new type of UAE visa?
The UAE has introduced new visa types, including:
Job Exploration Visa: This allows skilled professionals and graduates to explore job opportunities in the UAE without the need for a sponsor.
Business Entry Visa: Entrepreneurs can now enter the UAE to explore business opportunities without needing a sponsor.
4. What is the new 1-year visa in UAE?
The 1-year visa in the UAE refers to the Job Exploration Visa, which is valid for one year. This visa enables skilled professionals and graduates to enter the UAE to search for job opportunities without needing a sponsor or an employer upfront.
5. How many days can I stay in UAE after my visa expires?
After your visa expires, the UAE provides a 10-day grace period for visitors and residents to either renew their visa or leave the country. After this grace period, fines of AED 100 for the first day and AED 50 for each subsequent day will be applied
I'm Haris Ali. I am resident of United Arab Emirates. I've been working with identification documents in UAE for over 8 years. I've gained valuable experience from working with various government authorities in the region, especially with documents like the Emirates ID.
In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and exploring new destinations around the world.
