How to Apply for the UAE Retirement Visas-Eligibility, Criteria, Cost and Documentation

UAE Retirement Visa: A Step-by-Step Application Guide

The official retirement age for expatriates in the UAE is not explicitly defined by the labor law, Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. The legislation does not impose a mandatory retirement age for foreign workers. Foreigners aged 60 and above continue to be permitted to work in the UAE, and for those who own businesses, there are no age-related restrictions for residency.

It’s worth noting that while specific companies may have their own internal retirement policies, these are not legally mandated by UAE labor laws.

Work permits for expatriates over the age of 60 in the UAE are subject to the discretion of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The decision to grant such permits is contingent upon factors such as the individual’s work-related qualifications and expertise. The process involves careful consideration of these factors by the regulatory authorities.

Long-term Residency Options for Retired Expats:

Retired expatriates in the UAE have the option of applying for a Retirement Residence Permit, despite the absence of a specified retirement age in the UAE Labor Law. To be eligible, individuals must be either over the age of 55 or have completed a minimum of 15 years of service.

Additionally, eligibility criteria encompass ownership of property valued at Dh1 million, possessing savings amounting to Dh1 million, or maintaining an active monthly income of Dh20,000. These conditions provide flexibility for retirees seeking long-term residency in the UAE.

How to Apply for the Retirement Visa:

Applying for the Retirement Visa involves meeting specific conditions and eligibility criteria. Individuals can apply if they fulfill one of the following:

1. Sustainable Income:
   • Demonstrate a sustainable income of at least Dh180,000 annually or Dh15,000 per month.
2. Fixed Deposit:
   • Possess a three-year fixed deposit of Dh1 million.
3. Property Ownership:
   • Own an unmortgaged property valued at Dh1 million. In the case of a mortgaged property, the cumulative payments to date should be at least Dh1 million.
4. Combined Options:
   • Opt for a combination of the first two options, with a total value of at least Dh1 million. This can include a three-year fixed deposit and property worth Dh500,000 each.

These criteria ensure that applicants have a diverse set of options to qualify for the Retirement Visa, allowing flexibility based on their individual circumstances.

Apply for the Retirement Visa:

Retirement Visa Through Income:

1. Proof of Income:
   • a. Letter from the relevant entity specifying the source of income.
   • b. Letter from the previous employer if they continue to provide monthly retirement income.
   • c. Supporting documents demonstrating sustainable income.
2. Six-Month Bank Statement:
   • Provide a stamped bank statement from a Dubai-based bank, indicating a minimum monthly deposit of Dh15,000 or an annual deposit of Dh180,000.

Retirement Visa Through Savings:

1. Proof of Retirement:
   • End of service letter from the last employer, confirming years of service and retiree status.
2. Proof of Savings:
   • Stamped bank letter (in Arabic) from a UAE-based bank.
   • Savings of Dh1 million placed in a three-year fixed deposit in a UAE bank.
   • Bank-issued letter to GDRFA stating the security of the funds.

Retirement Visa Through Property:

1. Copy of Title Deed:
   • The property must be located in Dubai, with a minimum value of Dh1 million as per the title deed.
   • Property should be in the applicant’s name or, if owned by a company, the applicant must be the 100% owner.
   • In cases of shared ownership, the applicant’s share must be at least AED 1 million.
   • Property must be fully paid and not off-plan.

Retirement Visa Through Savings and Property:

1. Copy of Title Deed:
   • Located in Dubai and issued by the Dubai Land Department.
   • Minimum value of Dh500,000 as per the title deed.
   • Property should be in the applicant’s name or, if owned by a company, the applicant must be the 100% owner.
   • In cases of shared ownership, the applicant’s share must be at least Dh500,000.
2. Proof of Savings:
   • Stamped bank letter from a UAE-based bank, stating the account balance.
   • Savings of Dh500,000 placed in a three-year fixed deposit in a UAE bank.
   • Bank-issued letter to GDRFA confirming the security of the funds.

Documents Required for Retirement Visa Application:

Ensuring the submission of accurate and comprehensive documentation is a critical aspect of the retirement visa application process. All applicants must provide the following essential documents:

• Passport copies of the applicant and dependents, including spouses and children.
• Marriage certificate copy if sponsoring a spouse.
• Copy of the current visa for both the applicant and dependents, applicable for UAE residents.
• Copy of Emirates IDs for the applicant and dependents, if residents in the UAE.
• End of service letter: A document from the last employer verifying the retiree status and specifying the years of service.

In addition to these fundamental documents, applicants are required to submit supplementary supporting documents based on the chosen eligibility criteria. This meticulous documentation process ensures a thorough evaluation of financial assets and compliance with the specific requirements for the retirement visa.

Health Insurance Guidelines:

• While medical insurance isn’t mandatory for the retirement visa application, applicants must undergo a medical fitness test post-approval.
• Health insurance plans for at least one year are required and must be renewed annually. Family members under sponsorship also need coverage.

Sponsoring Family Members:

• Retirees holding the Dubai Retirement Visa can sponsor their spouse, children, and parents for a one-year renewable visa, with no limit on the number of children.
• All family members under sponsorship must have valid health insurance coverage.

Obtaining a retirement visa in the UAE demands attention to detail, whether based on income, savings, or property. As expatriates contemplate retiring in the UAE, clarity on each visa’s specific requirements is crucial.

This guide illuminates the necessary steps, from proving financial stability to adhering to property regulations.