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Tourist visa, travel requirements for the uae.

A tourist wishing to visit the UAE can apply for a tourist visa through the electronic channels of official and private agencies, after fulfilling the requirements for obtaining the entry visa. You can learn about the requirements for entering the UAE and the procedures regarding COVID-19 tests through the websites of the airlines, which are kept up-to-date.

Travel Requirements for the UAE - Tourist Visa

Government portals to apply for a tourist visa.

You can submit an application for a tourist visa, as well as all types of entry visas to the UAE, electronically through government portals.

• Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs

National Airlines

You can apply for a visit visa through national airlines and authorised airlines in the UAE.

• Etihad Airways Visa Services
• Emirates Visa Services
• Flydubai Visa Services
• Air Arabia Visa Services

You can apply for a visit visa through one of the hotels in the UAE, adhering to the visa requirements.

Travel Agencies

You can apply for a visit visa through travel agencies in the UAE.

Embassies and Consulates

UAE embassies and consulates allow you to apply for a tourist visa.

Categories Exempt from Tourist Visa

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries do not need a visa to enter the UAE. They can enter the country after presenting their passport issued by one of the GCC countries. Citizens of a few countries can travel to the UAE and obtain an entry visa upon arrival, and the duration of stay according to this visa is up to 30 days. Citizens of other countries can obtain a visa that allows for a stay of up to 90 days upon arrival.

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• Visa and Immigration in UAE

UAE visit visa: Tourists can now extend their stay from within the country

The emirates has implemented several changes in its entry permit procedures since october 2022.

SM Ayaz Zakir

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Tourists in the UAE on a 30 or 60 days visit visa can extend their stay within the country by another 30 days. The decision by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) grants visitors an additional 30 days to explore and enjoy the country’s diverse offerings.

The UAE has implemented several changes in its visa procedures since October last year, marking one of the largest residency and entry permit reforms by the ICP (Immigration and Citizenship Program). Since then, several developments have taken place in the visit visa system of the country.

As per the ICA website, individuals holding a visit visa of 30 or 60 days will now be eligible for an additional 30-day stay, and the maximum extension period for a visit visa holder is 120 days.

A call centre representative of Amer Centre said that a visit visa extension within the country is possible and “one must contact their visa issuing agent to for the extension."

Maximum extension

According to a call centre representative at ICP, it is possible to obtain a visa extension within the country for a period of 30 days. This extension applies to both long-term and short-term visit visas. However, it is important to note that the total duration of stay within a year should not exceed 120 days.

The call centre executive clarified, “If a visitor is on a 30 days visa, the extension can be possible up to 120 days (30 days on each extension),” added the executive.

Procedure for extension

"If a tourist or a visitor would like to extend their stay, they should contact the issuing travel agent or sponsor," said Firose Khan, operation manager at Arabian Business Centre.

"Your sponsor or travel agent who issued the visa can provide you with information on the extension process, required documentation, fees, and any other relevant details. It's important to initiate this process well before your current visa's expiration to allow sufficient time for the extension to be processed," added Khan.

Documentation required

The visitor’s passport is required to extend a visit visa. The issuing agent will provide more details on the required documents.

Time duration for extension

The process may take a few days from submitting the documents depending on your travel agent who applies for the service. However, on the ICP website, the “time to complete the service after its requirements are completed is 48 hours,”

Extension charges:

“The cost of extension for a month is Dh1,050,” said Khan.

The GDRFA elaborated the costs of extension and gave a breakdown of the rates on their website.

Visa extension fee: Dh600, in addition to the value-added tax (5%).

Additional fees (if the sponsored person is inside the country):

Knowledge dirham : Dh10

Innovation dirham : Dh10

Fee inside the country: Dh500

The website also mentioned, “The total amount of the visa may vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the sponsored person or for any other reasons that may require that,”

On ICP website, the cost vary.

Request fee: Dh100

Issuance fee: Dh500, and other related charges are applicable.

The website also mentions the application for an extension of entry permit for tourism is made through the tourism companies. Agents have urged the visitors to leave the country before the visa expiry or extend their visas to avoid attracting any penalties or difficulties while exiting.

This extension caters to various purposes, including tourism, family visits, business meetings, and other personal matters. "Visitors can utilise this extra time to explore the country's iconic landmarks, indulge in shopping, savour culinary delights, or simply relax in the UAE's world-class hospitality," said Khan.

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Who is a tourist visa for?

Tourist visa is for those who are not eligible for  visa on arrival  or a  visa-free entry  to the UAE. Tourist visa can be obtained for eligible individual tourists from around the world. Females below the age of 18 are not eligible to apply for this type of visa unless they are travelling with their parents.

According to a Cabinet resolution passed in July 2018, children under the age of 18 years who are accompanying adults, can get a  free visa for their visit from 15 July to 15 September each year.

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How to sponsor a son over the age of 18 under new UAE visa rules

Unmarried daughters and disabled children are granted residency permits regardless of age.

Previously, parents could sponsor their sons up to the age of 18. Getty

Latest: UAE authorities say visa scheme to begin on October 3

New visa rules coming into force in October will allow parents living in the UAE to sponsor their sons at university in the Emirates up to the age of 25.

Previously, parents could sponsor their sons up to the age of 18 and then renew the visa for another three years, provided their sons were studying at a university.

The new rules offer huge relief to parents who have struggled to pay for university visa sponsorship in the UAE. Those studying abroad would come back on visit visas to see their families living in the UAE.

Unmarried daughters and disabled children are granted a residency permit regardless of their age, according to the new rules.

The rule changes were approved by the Cabinet in April , as per decision number no. 65 for 2022.

Validity of family residence visa

In all cases, the duration of residency for the son or daughter should be the same duration as their parents' residency permit, which can be for two or three years.

The residency holder — in this instance the parents — should provide a home for the children to sponsor them. The residency permit application should be accompanied by an attested tenancy contract and salary certificate, as per Article 55 of the executive regulation list.

The sponsor should also provide a document to prove the parent-son relationship, such as an attested birth certificate.

According to the executive regulations list regarding Entry and Residence of Foreigners, the child's residency visa may become invalid if the child remains outside the UAE for more than 180 days.

The children's residency permits are linked to the permit of the sponsoring expatriate employee. If the sponsoring parent's visa is cancelled, it requires the cancellation of the visas of the dependants.

Dependants are granted a 30-day grace period from the date of expiry or cancellation of their visa to obtain a new residence permit. If the employee fails to renew or cancel the visa of his dependants, the dependants would be deemed illegal residents and could be liable to pay a fine.

Overstay fines

As per the UAE immigration's fines system, the penalty to stay on after the expiration of the grace period is Dh125 for the first day and Dh25 for each subsequent day.

If the dependant's overstay is more than six months, then the fine will be Dh50 per day and Dh100 per day after one year of overstaying.

How to apply

The sponsor can apply online to get his/her child's residency on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai website or through Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security for all other emirates.

Applicants also can visit the nearest Amer centre or typing centres to apply for a residence permit for their children.

List of documents required

Sponsor Emirates ID (Original).

Sponsor passport & residence visa page (at least minimum 6 months’ validity).

Valid Salary Certificate.

Valid Labour Contract.

Registered Tenancy contract or Ejari.

Recent Electricity Bill if house owned by a sponsor (Not rented).

Passport copies (colour) of son and one photo with white background. Passport validity should be a minimum of six months.

Emirates ID application form at the time of visa stamping or renewal

Medical test for children above the age of 18

Health insurance

Sponsor account IBAN number

For enquires, call an Amer centre on the toll free number 8005 111 from inside the UAE or +97143139999 from outside the UAE, and requests can be emailed to [email protected]

Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security can be reached by calling 600522222 or email [email protected]

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Home > Living in Dubai > The New Visa Rules In UAE For 2024

The New Visa Rules In UAE For 2024

Nov 28, 2023 | Human Resources , Living in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates welcomes the world with open arms, thanks to its new visa rules in 2023, which are designed to attract talent and investment. These sweeping changes to the visa system make it easier for tourists, professionals, and investors to enter and reside in the UAE, reflecting the country’s vision to become a leading global hub.

The UAE is setting a new benchmark for hospitality and opportunity with the introduction of visas that do not require sponsors, extended visa durations, and more inclusive family sponsorship policies. These reforms simplify the entry process and provide a more flexible and welcoming environment for those looking to work, invest, or explore the UAE’s rich cultural tapestry and economic potential.

Table of Contents

New UAE Residency Rules 2024

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a comprehensive overhaul of its visa system in 2023. These changes include introducing new visa types, expanding existing categories, and extending visa durations, all designed to enhance the UAE’s appeal as a global hub for business and tourism .

One of the most significant updates is the introduction of about ten entry visas that don’t require a host or sponsor. These visas offer flexible durations and can be for single or multiple entries. They’re renewable for the same period and remain valid for 60 days from the issue date. This move simplifies the process for visitors and expatriates looking to explore opportunities in the UAE.

Young Professionals

The job exploration visa is a game-changer for young professionals and recent graduates from the world’s top 500 universities. It allows you to seek employment in the UAE without needing a sponsor or host, provided you’re classified within the first three skill levels and hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

Entrepreneurs and investors are also catered to with the business entry visa , which facilitates exploring business and investment prospects without a sponsor. This visa is part of the UAE’s strategy to bolster its economy by attracting foreign investment.

The UAE has reintroduced the 3-month or 90-day visit visa, which can be extended within the country for an additional cost. This visa is distinct from the tourist visa , issued for 30 or 60 days, and the visit visa, issued for 90 days. A new five-year multi-entry tourist visa has also been launched, allowing self-sponsored visits for up to 90 days per entry, with the possibility of an extension for another 90 days. Applicants for this visa must show proof of a bank balance of USD 4,000 over the past six months.

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Family, friends and relatives.

Family sponsorship has become more inclusive under the new rules . Parents can now sponsor male children up to the age of 25 and disabled children indefinitely. In contrast, unmarried daughters can be sponsored without age restrictions.

For those visiting friends and relatives or on temporary work assignments, the UAE has made it possible to apply for entry permits without a sponsor or host, provided their employer sponsors them in the case of work assignments. Similarly, entry permits for study and training are available for attendees of courses or internships, with sponsorship from licensed educational institutions or government/private entities.

Humanitarian cases have not been overlooked, with residence permits now available for widowed female residents with children, parents or children of UAE citizens holding foreign passports, and spouses and children of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) state citizens with foreign passports.

A reentry permit is now available for residency visa holders who have stayed outside the UAE for more than six months, allowing them to return within 30 days of approval and maintain their residency status.

Visa Extensions

Visa extensions have become more flexible, with the UAE implementing a one-time 30-day extension for travellers on 90-day visit visas and the possibility of extending all types of tourist visas for an additional 30 days from within the country. The extension fee is set at USD 163.

The management of entry permits has been streamlined, with individuals now able to extend or terminate their permits through a personal online account. The validity of regular visas or green residency visa applications is two months. In comparison, Golden visa applications allow for six months with multiple entries. Notably, Green and Golden visa holders and their families can maintain their residence visas even if they stay outside the country for over 180 days.

Overstayers must obtain an out-pass or leave permit and pay the total overstay fines, which amount to USD 14 per day after a 10-day grace period for visiting visa holders. The fees for UAE and Dubai visas have increased. Travellers with unused visit visas must cancel them within a specified period, incurring a cost of up to USD 82.

Visa Validity

The Golden Visa scheme has been expanded and simplified, with a 10-year validity for all types. It now includes scientists, researchers, skilled professionals, and exceptionally talented individuals. Real estate investors, startup investors, exceptional students, humanitarian pioneers, doctors, nurses, and creative professionals aged 25 and above are also eligible for the Golden Visa, which allows for the sponsorship of parents for a 10-year residency.

The Green Residence visa offers a 5-year residence option for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs, with the added benefit of a 6-month grace period after permit cancellation or expiration. This visa is available to those without a sponsor or employer and aims to encourage investment in the UAE.

In a move towards digitalisation, the UAE has removed the requirement for residency visa stamping in passports, replacing it with the Emirates ID . Visa information changes can now be made online, and the validity of residency visas for children of Emirati women and foreign nationals has been extended from three to five years. Additionally, the Federal National Council has approved the extension of work permits from two years to three, easing financial burdens on residents.

New UAE Golden Visa Rules For 2024

The Golden Visa now extends eligibility to recent graduates from the top 100 universities worldwide, as recognised by the UAE Ministry of Education. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative average of 3.5 and have completed their studies within the last two years. This addition aims to attract young talent to the nation’s workforce.

The application process for the Golden Visa has been streamlined, with four channels available around the clock, including the UAEICP website or smart app, Customer Happiness Centres, and accredited typing offices. Required documents include a passport with at least six months’ validity and a coloured personal photo. The visa issuance fee is USD 95, which includes application, issuance, smart services, and ICP and electronic services fees.

If the visa is not utilised within the designated time frame, applicants can request a one-time extension of 60 days .

Golden Visa holders benefit from a range of privileges, such as the ability to sponsor family members and domestic helpers and discounts on various services. In Abu Dhabi, partnerships with entities like Imkan Properties and banks such as Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank offer reduced mortgage rates and savings account rates, respectively.

Eligible individuals from certain countries can convert their foreign driving licence in Dubai without additional lessons. Outstanding expatriate students and their families are eligible for the 10-year residency Golden Visa, with additional benefits like discounts on higher education and the Esaad card, which offers a range of privileges.

The eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa now encompass a broader spectrum of professionals and talents. Entrepreneurs with innovative projects, skilled professionals earning a significant monthly income, and students with exceptional academic records are also considered.

Individuals who have made notable contributions to humanitarian work or who have served as frontline heroes during crises are also eligible for the Golden Visa.

The UAE has introduced health insurance packages for Golden Visa holders through the National Health Insurance Company (Daman) , with premiums tailored to age and chosen plan. The application process for the Golden Visa is accessible online via the ICP website or the GDRFA-Dubai app .

Recent Changes to the UAE 5-Year Visa or Green Visa

The Green Visa distinguishes itself by offering a self-sponsorship pathway for highly skilled individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and top students and graduates, enabling them to reside in the UAE without being anchored to an employer. Eligible applicants can receive preliminary approval from the GDRFA in Dubai, facilitating their entry into the UAE to complete the residency formalities.

The ICP has enhanced the user experience by enabling individuals to manage their entry permits digitally through a personal account. The Green Visa now provides a five-year residency, significantly longer than the previous investor or partner visa duration.

This visa category is accessible to skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed professionals without the need for a UAE-based sponsor. Skilled workers must possess a valid employment contract and meet the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation criteria, including a minimum salary of USD 4,100 and a bachelor’s degree. Freelancers and self-employed individuals are required to obtain a permit from the same ministry and present evidence of a bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma, along with proof of an annual income of at least USD 98,000 from self-employment over the past two years and financial solvency for their stay in the UAE. Investors or partners are required to have their investment approved and demonstrate an investment of at least USD 272,280, with the possibility of combining capital from multiple licences, subject to local authority approval.

The Green Visa enhances the benefits for family members , allowing residents to sponsor their spouses and children more conveniently. The grace period for departure following visa cancellation has been extended to six months. The age limit for sponsoring children has been increased to 25 years, with no age limit for unmarried daughters and children of determination, who will all enjoy the same residency duration as the primary visa holder.

The fees for the Green Visa are set at AED 2,280, excluding additional charges for the ID card and medical services. They may vary based on the number of dependents sponsored.

New Rules For UAE Visa Extension In The UAE

In 2023, the United Arab Emirates introduced new regulations for visa extensions, giving you updated guidelines for extending your stay within the nation. These changes are significant if you’re looking to prolong your visit or manage your residency status more flexibly.

The UAE now allows visa extensions for 30 days, which is especially beneficial if you hope to enjoy the country’s attractions for longer. You can apply online to extend a visa, simplifying the process and saving time.

There’s a cap on the duration of stay in the UAE, set at a maximum of 120 days within a year. This means that no matter how many extensions you might apply for, your cumulative stay can stay within this 120-day limit. It’s important to plan your extensions carefully to avoid any complications with your travel or residency status.

If you’re holding a 90-day visa, you also have the option of an additional 90-day extension, effectively doubling the initial permitted duration of your stay. This extension is a significant change that offers more flexibility for longer-term visitors.

Introducing personal online accounts has made extending, or cancelling entry permits more convenient. This digital approach allows for more efficient management of your visa status. In the event of visa cancellation, the processing time is typically up to 48 hours, which is quite swift.

The cost of extending a visit visa in the UAE is around AED 1100, which you’ll need to consider when planning an extended stay. It’s also good to know that all categories of tourist visas are eligible for an additional 30-day extension.

In Dubai, the GDRFA is the go-to authority for visa extensions. The main GDRFA office is in Al Jafiliya, Dubai. Plus, there are Amer Centers, service centres located in various malls and other convenient spots around the city, offering a range of government services, including visa-related ones.

You can also process some types of visa extensions online through the GDRFA website or a UAE government portal, providing an alternative to in-person applications.

One of the key advantages of extending your visa is avoiding overstay fines, which can be quite hefty, at 50 AED for each day of overstaying. Moreover, if your tourist visa has expired and you’re still in the country, an extra charge of 100 AED is tacked on when exiting at the border crossing point.

To figure out how much you owe in overstay fines, you can use two online methods: the official GDRFA website and the ICP website. These tools can help you calculate any fines due and avoid surprises when it’s time to leave.

New Rules for UAE Visa Entry 2024

The UAE has also reintroduced the 90-day visit visa, which you can now extend in-country for an extra fee. This provides additional convenience for those needing more time to explore the UAE or conduct short-term business activities.

Parents can now sponsor male children up to 25 and disabled children indefinitely with a special permit. Unmarried daughters can be sponsored with no age limit, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to family unity.

If you’re visiting friends and relatives, you can now apply for an entry permit without needing a sponsor or host. Plus, if you’re on a temporary work assignment, you can get a temporary work mission entry permit as long as your employer sponsors you.

The entry permit for study and training is ideal if you’re looking to attend training, study courses, or internships sponsored by licensed entities in the UAE. This facilitates access to educational and professional development opportunities within the country.

For residency visa holders who’ve been outside the UAE for more than six months, there’s a reentry permit to prevent their residency status from being cancelled. This is particularly beneficial for those who need to be abroad for extended periods.

In a step towards digitalisation, you can now manage your entry permits through a personal online account, streamlining the process of extending or cancelling your permits.

However, if you overstay your visa, you’ll need to obtain an out-pass or leave permit before leaving the UAE and settle overstay fines, with a grace period provided for visit visa holders.

The fees for UAE and Dubai visas, including tourist visas, have increased. If you have an unused visit visa, it must be cancelled within a certain time frame, and a fee will be incurred.

For residency visa applicants, it’s important to note that you cannot travel outside the UAE. In contrast, your residency visa is being processed, and a minimum of 6 months of passport validity is required.

The Golden Visa now includes a wider range of eligible individuals, such as those in certain categories who may qualify based on talent alone, without the need for specific qualifications, salary, or professional status.

The Green Visa, offering a 5-year stay, is available for skilled employees, freelancers, self-employed individuals, and investors or partners without the necessity of a UAE-based sponsor or employer.

In an administrative update, the UAE government has transitioned to using the Emirates ID as the primary document for residency, eliminating the need for residency visa stamping in passports. This move streamlines the residency process and reduces paperwork. Changes to visa information can now be handled online, and the validity of residency visas for children of Emirati women and foreign nationals has been increased.

Lastly, the FNC has approved the extension of work permits, enhancing job stability for expatriate workers.

Embracing UAE’s Visa Evolution

The sweeping changes to the UAE’s visa rules in 2023 represent a strategic pivot towards inclusivity, simplification, and digitalisation. These updated regulations demonstrate the nation’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for tourists, expatriates, and investors alike. With a particular focus on attracting global talent, supporting family cohesion, and facilitating business ventures, the UAE continues to cement its position as a leading cosmopolitan nexus.

As you navigate these new visa pathways, embrace the opportunities and convenience they present, whether you’re a career trailblazer, a young academic achiever, or part of the growing expatriate community. The UAE’s visa transformation is a testament to its forward-thinking ethos, ensuring your experiences in the Emirates are as seamless as they are enriching.

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Which work visas have a maximum age limit?

Working Holiday Visas (WHV) are meant for travelers between 18-35

Working holiday visas are short-term exchange programs that allow young people to take a gap year to travel and work in a new country. To fund their stay and gain work experience, they can do jobs of a short-term nature (e.g., waiter, tour guide, retail worker).

The United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Italy, Austria, Germany, Denmark, New Zealand, Australia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Argentina all offer a 12-month WHV program. These programs are not open to all young people worldwide: only a select list of nationalities are eligible. For example, only citizens of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea are allowed to apply for a Danish WHV. This means that an American or Indian citizen cannot apply for the program. 

The age limit of applicants varies between 30 and 35. In South Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, Israel and Austria, the cutoff is 30 years old for everyone. In the other countries, the age limit differs according to the applicant's nationality, i.e., depending on any special bilateral agreement existing between their home country and the host country. For example, Portuguese applicants for an Australian WHV can be 31, while Canadian, French or Italian applicants can be as old as 35. 

To cite another example, Uruguayan, Canadian, Slovak, Czech and Finnish applicants for New Zealand's WHV have a higher cutoff age of 35, as compared to the lower age limit of 30 for citizens of the other 40 eligible countries. A Malaysian, Belgian or Brazilian applicant, while eligible, must not be older than 30. The length of stay can also be exceptionally longer for select citizens. For instance, British and Canadian WHV-holders can stay in New Zealand for 23 instead of the standard 12 months.

Permanent work visas in Australia have an age limit of 45

Australia has an aging population. Currently, around 16% of all residents are older than 65. It's logical that the country wants to prioritize the immigration of young, working-age people instead of those who will retire in a few years and might put pressure on public services (pension, health services). Younger workers are also more likely to have children in Australia, which helps the country's birth rate. 

This is why no expat older than 45 can apply for these skilled, permanent work visas: the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189). Subclass 186 and Subclass 190 are for expats who already have a job offer, while Subclass 189 is for those who don't have a job offer yet but have sought-after skills and experience. The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187), through which an expat can be nominated by an employer in a specific Australian province, also has the same age limit.

Furthermore, the Subclass 190 visa is subject to a points-based test. Applicants need to score at least 65 points to get the visa. Age is a criterion. 25–35-year-olds get the highest points for age: 30 points. Applicants between 18-25 and 35-40 earn 25 age points. Meanwhile, those between 40-45 get only 15 age points: half the points of the preferred age group.

The pathways to enter Australia after the age of 45 are very limited. Over-45s can apply for business innovation and investment visas, which have no age limit, given that their main criteria is financial ability. This Subclass 188 visa has various streams: Business Innovation, Investor, and Significant Investor. The applicant must have at least 1.5 Australian dollars to invest or be able to start or take over a business. 

The Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) also has no age limit. It is for individuals with rare technical skills (in fields such as defense, energy, fintech, or Agri-tech) or who have outstanding achievements in a field (e.g., Olympic athletes, film stars, etc.). However, the selection process for those over 55 is still more stringent. The applicants need to truly prove that their talent will contribute a lot to Australia.

Parent visas also allow older expats to enter the country if their child is an Australian citizen or permanent resident. One of these parent visas, the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143), is a permanent visa that, among other things, gives the older expat the right to work in Australia. This visa also has a temporary version called the Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa. It allows the older expat to work for a nonrenewable 2 years. After 2 years, they need to apply for Subclass 143.

Age limit of 50-60 for first work permits in the Gulf

The age limit to enter Gulf countries as an expat worker varies, but in general, it's difficult to obtain a first work permit after the age of 50 or 60. In Qatar, the cutoff age for most jobs, especially manual ones, is at the lower end: 50 years old. That is the minimum age of retirement in most Gulf countries, including Qatar. Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, expats usually need to be under 60 to get a first work visa. There is no official age limit in the UAE, but it's harder to get approved for a first work permit after 65. 

In the UAE, expats who already have a work permit can have it renewed quite normally until the age of 65. However, between 60 and 65, they need to renew it every single year. In exceptional cases, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation can grant a work permit to an expat over 65. However, the fee for over-65s is very high: 5,000 AED, or about 1,400 USD, every 2 years to keep using the permit.

The policy for permit renewals is quite similar in other Gulf countries. For instance, as of early 2022, expats over 60 in Kuwait are allowed to renew their work permit, but they are subject to higher processing fees. It's the employer who files their application. In Bahrain, for instance, employers need to use the online platform of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority to request a permit renewal for their 60-plus expat employees.

Age is an important factor in Canadian points-based immigration

Back in 1967, Canada became the first country ever to create a points-based immigration system. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) judges applicants on their age, qualifications, work experience, English and French proficiency, previous experience living or working in Canada (considered as cultural adaptability skills), number of relatives already living in Canada, and any job offer in the country. 

The maximum score on the CRS is 1200, and applicants need at least 400 points to be prioritized for Express Entry. A maximum of 110 points for age can be granted to a single applicant, while the maximum for someone applying alongside their spouse/common-law partner is 100. People in their 20s get the highest age points. Those between 20-29 score 100 (married) to 110 (single) points for age. Applicants who are 18, 19, 30, or 31 also get a fairly high score: between 90 and 105. 

With each passing year, the age score in the CRS goes down by 5-6 points. For instance, an unmarried 38-year-old applicant gets 55 age points, while an unmarried 37-year-old gets 60 points. In this decreasing scale, applicants who are 45 or older score zero age points. They can still qualify for Express Entry if they score very high on other criteria, especially work experience and educational qualifications. A doctoral degree would give them 140-150 points, which might be enough to compensate for the lack of age points. 

The CRS is not the only points-based selection system in Canada. There also exists the 100-point system of the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW). CSR is for entry, but FSW is for permanent residence. Here, applicants need to score 67 out of 100. A maximum of 12 points can be granted for age. Those aged 18 to 35 receive full age points, while these points decrease by 1 with each passing year from the age of 36. As compared to the CRS system, applicants aged 45 and 46 do receive a few age points: 2 points and 1 point, respectively. It's from the age of 47 that age points become zero. It is also zero for applicants who are minors.

Why is age a criterion? Like Australia, Canada has an aging population. The Canadian Institute for Health Information predicts that the country's population of seniors will grow by 68% over the next 20 years. The country also has a low birth rate of around 1.4 births per woman. It needs an inflow of young immigrants who will be able to work for many years as well as raise families in the country. This is why foreign workers in their 20s and early 30s are preferred. 

Ameerah is a lecturer and private tutor who teaches Spanish and Mandarin in Mauritius. She has also been a freelance translator, editor and content writer for a decade. Having lived in both Madrid and Beijing, she enjoys traveling.

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What is the legal age limit to work in Dubai?

• Legal Age to Apply for a Job in Dubai
• Juvenile Work Permit
• Training Permit for Students in Dubai
• Retirement Age in Dubai

With a fast-growing economy, Dubai is ideal for expats who flock to the emirate every year for employment. All workers and employers must abide by the Dubai work visa age limit to ensure a fair and balanced work environment. You will find laws governing the minimum age for employment and the age limit for retirement.

Here is all that you need to know about the minimum Dubai work visa age limit.

UAE’s law regarding the minimum working age limit in Dubai

According to dubai labour law, what is the minimum age to work in dubai.

Employees above 18 are eligible for a work visa in Dubai. Anyone under the age of 15 isn’t allowed to work in the emirate as per the UAE’s Labour Law. Residents of Dubai aged 15 to 18 can go for positions like internships and other jobs. This is subject to the regulations on hours and work conditions by the UAE Labour Law for working individuals below 18.

Juvenile Work Permit in Dubai

Students in Dubai who are between the ages mentioned may get a temporary work permit, known as the Juvenile Work Permit, valid for a year. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) issues these Juvenile Work Permits, provided that applications meet the requirements set by the ministry.

Here are the prerequisites to get a Juvenile Work Permit application approval in Dubai.

• Anyone applying for a Juvenile Work Permit has to submit their legal guardian’s consent form.
• The applicant also has to provide a birth certificate or a medical certificate.
• The ministry requires the applicant to submit a physical fitness certificate from a competent medical authority to prove that the minor can do the work.
• Both minors and their parents must have valid residence visas.
• Minors cannot apply for a Juvenile Work Permit for work prohibited in the UAE.
• The employer who is recruiting a minor should have a valid trade licence.
• Minors are not allowed to work during the night at industrial enterprises.
• Underage employees are not allowed to apply for dangerous jobs.
• The law forbids minors from working overtime.
• The maximum working hours for underage employees is six hours a day, including a one-hour break.

Training permit for students in Dubai

The UAE Labour Law allows students aged above 12 and below 18 to apply for work-related training permits. Students within this age limit can apply for a training permit through MoHRE.

MoHRE also requires written consent from the student’s guardian to issue the training permit. MoHRE has launched a free online students’ training form to make the process more convenient, which can be downloaded from its official website.

You can also get the permit from Tas’heel service centres in Dubai.

Retirement age in Dubai

Expat residents in Dubai and the UAE can retire when they are 60. However, they are allowed to continue working until they turn 65. This is provided their employers apply for their permits successfully.

However, employees above 60 years must apply for work permits via MoHRE. Labour cards for employees above 60 also need to be renewed annually.

Furthermore, work permit approval for seniors above 65 years is costlier for employers. A look at how expats can retire in Dubai can give a better understanding of available options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply for a work visa in dubai.

Those interested in understanding the various steps involved in applying for a work visa in Dubai can check out the process on MoHRE’s official website.

Can I get a freelancing visa in the emirate?

Yes, you can apply for a Dubai freelance visa if you fulfil the criteria. There are different types depending on your status in the country. Another option is the Dubai remote working visa residence scheme , provided that you fulfil eligibility requirements.

Where to work in Dubai as a freelancer?

Freelancers and entrepreneurs can benefit from many creative co-working spaces in Dubai that provide them with a professional set-up designed to stimulate creativity. There are also several work-friendly cafes in Dubai where visitors can work peacefully.

What is the maximum age to work in Dubai?

What is the maximum age limit to work in Dubai? The maximum age is 60. However, individuals can continue working until age 65 if they meet the required conditions.

This concludes our blog about the Dubai work visa age limit. Overall, Dubai offers a good working environment for employees and entrepreneurs.

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What is the official retirement age for expats in the UAE?

Living in uae.

What Labour and Immigration Laws state about working, living in UAE after the age of 60.

Dubai: Are you an expatriate who has been working in the UAE for many years? If so, you might be interested in finding out how much longer you can continue to work in the UAE. Is there an age by which you may be required to retire? And if so, can you still stay on in the UAE with your family? Here is what the UAE’s Labour and Immigration laws state regarding the status of foreign retirees in the country.

Official retirement age for expats in the UAE

According to Dubai-based lawyer Ludmila Yamalova, who is the Founder and Managing Partner of HPL Yamalova and Plewka DMCC, the UAE’s labour law - Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 - does not explicitly state an age at which foreign workers in the UAE are required to retire.

She clarified that foreigners above the age of 60 have previously been allowed to work in the UAE and continue to be able to do so.

“Also, for those who run their own businesses, there has never been an age restriction for residency. Certain industries or companies may have their own internal policies regarding retirement, but these are not mandated by law,” she said.

She added that the previous Labour Law – through Ministerial Resolution 52 of 1989, Article 3, clause C – stated that the retirement age was 60. However, even with the previous law, exceptions were made for highly valued and skilled employees beyond this age limit.

From the employment standpoint, the recently introduced UAE Labour Law does not specify the age of retirement. - Ludmila Yamalova, who is the Founder and Managing Partner of HPL Yamalova and Plewka DMCC

Does the UAE issue work permits for expats over 60?

Noora Al Doseri, a paralegal at Dubai-based law firm ADG Legal, explained that the current Labour Law does not have any conditions stipulating the maximum age for issuing work permits to foreign workers.

“In practice and in our experience, it is up to the discretion and approval of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to accept and grant work permits or visas for foreign nationals seeking to work past the age of 60. Some of the main factors taken into consideration are work-related qualifications and the extent of their expertise,” Al Doseri said.

In practice and in our experience, it is up to the discretion and approval of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to accept and grant work permits or visas for foreign nationals seeking to work past the age of 60. Some of the main factors taken into consideration are work-related qualifications and the extent of their expertise - Noora Al Doseri, a paralegal at ADG Legal

Long-term residency options for retired expats in the UAE

While the UAE Labour Law does not state an age for retirement in the UAE, if you do wish to retire in the country, you would need to apply for a retirement residence permit, also referred to as the retirement visa. This is where the UAE’s Immigration Laws come into effect, and these laws do state a minimum age after which an individual can qualify for a retirement visa.

“From the immigration standpoint, the retirement age for foreigners in the UAE is either above the age of 55 or after the completion of at least 15 years of service. This is in accordance with Article 52 (1) of UAE Cabinet Decision No. 65 of 2022 on foreigners' entry and residency. Foreigners who meet one of these two criteria can apply for a Retirement Residence Permit ,” Yamalova said.

How to apply for the retirement visa

To apply for the retirement residency permit, these are the conditions that need to be met:

1. The foreign national’s service period prior to their retirement shall not be less than 15 years (whether inside or outside of the UAE) or the foreign national is at least 55 years old; and

2. The foreign expatriate must fulfil one of the following criteria: a) Must own a property (or multiple properties) in the UAE worth at least Dh1 million; b) Have financial savings of at least Dh1 million (whether inside or outside of the UAE, provided it is deposited in any financial institution in the UAE); or c) Must have an active monthly income of Dh20,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies.

The requirement for active monthly income may vary slightly depending on the Emirate that issues the visa. To know more, read our guide here .

Another residence permit that allows expats to live in the UAE without a sponsor for an extended period is the Golden Residence, which is a 10-year residency visa granted to investors, business professionals, talented artists, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanities and frontline workers.

The Golden Residence Visa is renewable every 10 years, and through this visa you can also sponsor your family for the same duration of time. However, to apply for this visa, you do have to meet certain eligibility requirements. Click here to know more about the Golden visa and how to apply for it.

Do you have any questions related to the topics covered in Living in UAE? Write to us at [email protected] .

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