UAE Visa Status Change: If you’re currently in the UAE on a tourist or visit visa and have found a job, started studying, or are transitioning to another visa type, you’ll likely need to change your visa status without exiting the country. Fortunately, the UAE government allows in-country visa status changes, making it easier and more efficient to settle into your new life.
UAE Visa Status Change 2025 Guide and Process Explained
What Does Change of Visa Status Mean in UAE?
UAE Visa Status Change: A change of visa status in the UAE refers to the legal process of converting one type of visa (e.g., tourist, visit, student) to another (e.g., employment, residence, or family visa) without having to leave the country. Rather than exiting the UAE and reapplying from abroad, applicants can adjust their visa status locally through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or GDRFA (for Dubai).
Who Needs to Change Visa Status in the UAE?
UAE Visa Status Change: You may need to apply for a change status visa UAE if:
You entered the UAE on a tourist/visit visa and secured a job
You’re shifting from a student visa to a work visa
You’re changing sponsorship from family to employer
You’re transferring between companies under a new employer visa
You’re applying for a residence visa for investment or freelance work
Documents Required to Change Visa Status
UAE Visa Status Change: Depending on the visa type, the documentation may vary slightly. However, the basic required documents include:
For the Applicant:
Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Passport-size photo with white background
Current visa copy
Entry permit (if already issued)
Visa status amendment form (provided by typing centers)
For Employment Visa Change:
Offer letter or labor contract (attested)
Emirates ID application form
Medical fitness test report
Sponsor company trade license copy
Establishment card (for private companies)
Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and translated into Arabic if required.
Change Status Visa UAE Fees (2025)
UAE Visa Status Change: The typical fees for changing visa status within the UAE range from AED 750 to AED 1,200, depending on the emirate, visa type, and processing speed.
| Fee Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Visa Status Change Fee | 550–650 |
| Entry Permit Amendment | 200–400 |
| Typing & Service Fees | 100–200 |
| Optional Express Service | 100–150 |
Note: Some categories (like Golden Visa applicants) may have different fee structures.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Visa Status in UAE
UAE Visa Status Change: Here’s how to apply for a visa status change in the UAE:
1. Obtain New Entry Permit
Your sponsor (employer, family member, or investment entity) applies for your new entry permit.
2. Complete Medical Test
Visit a licensed health center and complete the required medical fitness examination.
3. Submit Emirates ID Application
Fill out and submit the Emirates ID form online or via typing center.
4. Change Status Request
Submit the change of status request through GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates) before your current visa expires.
5. Pay Applicable Fees
Pay fees at an authorized typing center or online via ICA Smart Services or GDRFA portal.
6. Visa Stamping
After approval, submit your passport for visa stamping and receive your residence visa.
When to Apply for Status Change
UAE Visa Status Change: It’s best to apply at least 5–7 days before your current visa expires to avoid overstay fines. Overstaying can result in a fine of AED 50 per day.
Some applicants also choose “in-country” change of status during job hunts or immediately after offer letters are issued.
Can You Change Status Without Exit in 2025?
UAE Visa Status Change: Yes! The UAE now permits in-country visa changes without needing to exit. This process has been widely adopted since 2020 and continues in 2025 as a preferred method for:
Tourists who land a job
Freelancers converting to residence permits
Sponsored individuals shifting categories (e.g., from dependent to employee)
This makes change status visa UAE one of the most convenient procedures for expats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until your visa expires before applying
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation
Ignoring Emirate-specific procedures (e.g., GDRFA in Dubai vs. ICP in other areas)
Not getting medical insurance for residence visa applications
Failing to update Emirates ID details
Working with a reputable agency or typing center can help you avoid these pitfalls.
Change Visa Status for Tourists Who Find Jobs
UAE Visa Status Change: One of the most common use cases is tourists who find employment during their stay. Instead of exiting the UAE, they can:
Obtain a job offer and employment entry permit
Apply for a status change
Get their residence visa stamped
This not only saves time and money but also ensures the continuity of your legal status in the UAE.
Final Tips for Changing Visa Status Successfully
Always check which authority handles your application (GDRFA or ICP)
Track application status via official portals
Keep both physical and digital copies of all documents
Seek help from registered service centers or legal agents
Conclusion: Navigate Visa Change with Confidence
UAE Visa Status Change: Changing your visa status in the UAE is no longer a complicated or exit-required process. Thanks to updated immigration policies, applicants can easily shift between visa categories while remaining in the country.
Whether you’re an expat professional starting a new job, a freelancer switching to residency, or a family member updating sponsorship, the Change Status Visa UAE process in 2025 is streamlined and accessible.