Guía de trámites y residencia en Emiratos Árabes Unidos

Updated on: February 13, 2026

This guide has been compiled by the Editorial Team at emigrantes.eu, based strictly on official sources (UAE Government Portal, ICP, MOHRE, and the authorities of each emirate) and updated as of February 2026 to ensure the accuracy of the information.

Guide to Procedures and Residency in the United Arab Emirates

Moving to the United Arab Emirates involves completing several essential official procedures to live, work, and access basic services. The process varies slightly between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates, but all require obtaining a residence visa and applying for the Emirates ID, a mandatory identity document for residents. You will also need to register your rental contract through Ejari (in Dubai), open a local bank account, purchase authorized health insurance, and undergo any medical exams required for residency. Although the UAE has a highly digitized administrative system, some steps require in-person appointments. This guide provides clear and up-to-date explanations of the essential procedures for successfully settling in by 2025.

Choose a procedure

How to complete the procedures with your personal advisor and fill out the official forms:

  1. Select the “procedure” you need
  2. Click “Go to the official procedure” to open the actual procedure page in a new tab.
  3. Return to this page and click “View step-by-step guide” to follow the self-guided instructions while filling out the official form.
  4. We’ve left the fields to be filled out in their original language so you can easily match them with the official form.
🔄 Content reviewed and updated as of December 2025. Based on official sources from the corresponding country. For more information, see our Editorial Policy.
📄 Official sources consulted
  • Official websites of government agencies and public administrations in the relevant country.
  • Institutional portals for immigration, taxation, social security, and public services.
  • Official documentation published by ministries, state agencies, and competent authorities.

Specific sources may vary depending on the country and the procedure. It is always recommended to verify the information directly with the relevant official agency.

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Emigrantes Emiratos Árabes Unidos: icono del sitio

User: “I want to renew my TIE while living in France.”

AE: “Here are the documents, an explanation of the EX-17 form, and completed examples.”

User: “I need a criminal record certificate.”

AE: “I’ll walk you through it step by step and show you how to fill out the application.”

User: “I don’t understand what to put on my tax return.”

AE: “Here’s the 2025 Income Tax Guide explained field by field.”

Emigracion: Formularios oficiales - imagen destacada
Official Fee Calculator
Select a procedure to find out the administrative fee in the United Arab Emirates.

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Arrival procedures in the United Arab Emirates are closely linked to the type of visa and the emirate where you will be residing.

The Emirates ID.

It is essential for any administrative activity, such as renting a property, accessing medical services, or opening a bank account. Registering your lease agreement through Ejari guarantees the legal validity of your address, a common requirement for completing other official procedures. Additionally, health insurance is mandatory in most emirates and must be purchased from authorized companies. Many procedures can be initiated online through government platforms such as ICP or DubaiNow. This page provides a practical summary of all the steps necessary to establish your residence in the UAE in accordance with the regulations in effect in 2025.

What is the most important step upon arriving in the United Arab Emirates?

The essential procedure is to obtain a residence visa and, subsequently, the Emirates ID. Both documents are mandatory for working, opening a bank account, accessing medical services, and carrying out any administrative procedures.

Is it mandatory to register the lease agreement with Ejari?

Yes. In Dubai, all rental contracts must be registered with Ejari to be legally valid. Without this registration, you will not be able to complete other procedures such as setting up utilities, obtaining residency, or proving your address to authorities.

Can I open a bank account without an Emirates ID?

Some banks allow you to open a temporary account with an approved visa, but the Emirates ID is usually required to activate or maintain the account long-term. It is recommended that you bring your passport, visa, and proof of address.

Is health insurance mandatory in the United Arab Emirates?

Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for most residents, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It must be purchased from an authorized insurer and is required to complete certain residency procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions