Last Updated on July 16, 2025 by Hend Ibrahim

If you’re working in the United Arab Emirates, maintaining a valid employment visa is essential for legal residency, work eligibility, and access to services. Over time, your visa will expire, and you’ll need to go through the employment visa renewal UAE process to continue living and working legally in the country.

At Alpha Abu Dhabi, we specialize in handling all types of visa services, including renewals, extensions, and labor-related documentation. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the UAE employment visa renewal procedure, associated costs, timelines, and everything you need to know to renew your visa seamlessly.

 

What Is an Employment Visa in the UAE?

An employment visa in UAE is a residence permit issued to foreign nationals who UAE-based companies hire. It allows the visa holder to legally live and work in the country, and it’s usually valid for 2 or 3 years, depending on the employer and the emirate.

To maintain legal status, this visa must be renewed before it expires. Failure to do so may lead to fines, visa cancellation, or even deportation.

 

UAE Employment Visa Renewal: Why It Matters

The UAE employment visa renewal is not just a routine task — it’s a legal requirement. Timely renewal ensures:

• Continuous legal residency

• Ability to work without interruption

• Access to health insurance and government services

• Uninterrupted travel in and out of the UAE

At Alpha Abu Dhabi, we help businesses and individuals handle the employment visa renewal UAE process efficiently, ensuring compliance with UAE labor and immigration laws.

 

UAE Employment Visa Renewal Procedure: Step-by-Step

Here’s how the uae employment visa renewal procedure typically works:

1. Employer Applies for Renewal

The visa renewal is initiated by your employer or PRO (Public Relations Officer). If you’re self-sponsored or an investor, you can renew it yourself or through a licensed service provider like Alpha Abu Dhabi.

2. Medical Fitness Test

All applicants must undergo a medical test from a government-approved medical center. This includes a blood test and chest X-ray to screen for infectious diseases.

3. Emirates ID Renewal

Simultaneously, the Emirates ID must be renewed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).

4. Labor Contract Update (if needed)

In some cases, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) may require an updated labor contract, especially if the terms of employment have changed.

5. Visa Stamping

Once all approvals are obtained, the renewed visa is stamped in your passport electronically.

6. Receive Updated Documentation

You’ll receive an updated Emirates ID and digital visa confirmation that shows your extended residency.

At Alpha Abu Dhabi, we manage every step of this process, so you don’t have to worry about missing documents or deadlines.

 

Documents Required for Employment Visa Renewal UAE

Here are the essential documents you’ll need:

• Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Recent passport-size photograph (with white background)

• Current Emirates ID

• Valid medical fitness certificate

• Labor card (if applicable)

• Company trade license (for employers)

• Updated labor contract (if necessary)

We make sure your documents are reviewed, verified, and submitted correctly to prevent delays.

 

Employment Visa Renewal UAE: Processing Time

The average employment visa renewal processing time is:

• Medical test results: 1–2 working days

• Emirates ID renewal: 3–5 working days

• Visa stamping: 2–5 working days

So, the complete UAE employment visa renewal process can take 7 to 10 working days. Alpha Abu Dhabi offers expedited services for clients who need faster turnaround.

 

Employment Visa Extension UAE: What If You Need More Time?

 

Sometimes, you may not be able to renew your visa before the expiration date. In such cases, an employment visa extension in the UAE may be requested, depending on the situation and current residency laws.

 

Common Scenarios for Extensions:

• Change of employer

• Pending new contract approval

• Personal emergencies delaying the renewal process

The UAE offers a grace period of up to 30 days after the visa expiry date in most cases. However, overstaying beyond that period can result in fines and legal issues.

Our team at Alpha Abu Dhabi helps evaluate your case and submit extension applications when needed.

 

Why Choose Alpha Abu Dhabi?

Alpha Abu Dhabi is a trusted name in immigration and labor office services. Here’s why clients prefer us:

• End-to-End Support: We manage everything from documentation to final approval.

• Fast Processing: Our expertise speeds up approval and minimizes delays.

• Legal Compliance: We ensure your case aligns with UAE laws and policies.

• Bilingual Experts: Our team speaks Arabic and English, ensuring clear communication.

• Reliable Service: From companies to individuals, we serve all clients professionally.

Whether you’re an employer looking to renew staff visas or a professional renewing your permit, we simplify the process for you.

 

Contact US

• Email: info@alphabudhabi.com

• Phone/WhatsApp: +971 561691648

• Office: Abu Dhabi – Musaffah Industrial – M44 – Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Building

Let us handle your UAE employment visa renewal so you can focus on what really matters — your career, your business, and your future in the UAE.

 

Conclusion

The employment visa renewal UAE process is essential for maintaining your legal status in the country. While the process may seem complex, having a professional team like Alpha Abu Dhabi on your side ensures it’s completed accurately and efficiently.

From understanding the UAE employment visa renewal procedure to assisting with employment visa extension UAE cases, we handle it all. Save time, avoid fines, and ensure compliance with the latest immigration laws with our expert support.

 

FAQs

How early should I renew my employment visa?

You can start the renewal process 30 to 90 days before your current visa expires.

Can I switch employers during renewal?

Yes, but your new employer must initiate the visa transfer and get approval from MOHRE.

What happens if I don't renew my visa on time?

You may face fines starting from AED 25 per day, plus legal restrictions or deportation in severe cases.

Can Alpha Abu Dhabi help with group visa renewals?

Absolutely. We assist businesses with batch renewals for entire teams or departments.