Dreaming of emigrating to Dubai? Here’s your emigration checklist.
Dubai is a wonderfully vibrant and modern city, and there are many great career opportunities there for expats. However, the immigration process is rather complicated. Consult a migration agent rather than trying to handle the process by yourself, especially if you don’t speak fluent Arabic.
In addition to the logistics and red-tape surrounding immigration itself, you should also talk to an expert in expat financial advice with regard to UK pension transfers and insurances.
Permanent residency
The most important document you’ll need if you relocate to Dubai is a permanent residency visa. Without one, you won’t be able to open a bank account, obtain a UAE driving licence, purchase a vehicle, or rent a property. In order to successfully apply for a permanent residency visa, you’ll need to prove that you have an offer of employment in Dubai.
Once you have a job, you will be able to get a work permit, and with a work permit you can then apply for residency. This is where a good migration agent can help you begin your immigration dream. They will be able to put you in touch with appropriate employment agencies specialising in work opportunities in Dubai.
Your application for residency and your work permit will usually be arranged for you, once you’ve obtained a job offer. This will be through liaison between your employer and your migration agent.
While your visa application is being processed, you will have to have a medical examination. This will usually be held at an approved government clinic or hospital in your local area. During this examination, you will have blood tests and a chest X-ray taken. If you have HIV, AIDS, tuberculosis or leprosy, your visa application will be declined immediately and you won’t be allowed to reapply.
Residence visa renewal
A residence visa is usually valid for two years. Following the expiration of your visa, you’ll have 30 days to reapply for a new one. Note that if you leave the UAE for six months or more, your visa is invalidated and you will need to reapply for a new one before you can return to live and work in Dubai.
Dubai offers a world of opportunity and a great lifestyle for those prepared to make the move. Have a chat with an expert in expat finances for more detailed information on transferring your financial obligations and always use a migration agent to organise the paperwork and logistics of your move for you.