Moving to Sharjah or transitioning from a visit visa to residency? All Sharjah residence visas are processed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) — not GDRFA, which handles Dubai only.
The process has three main phases: Entry Permit → Medical & Biometrics → Visa Stamping + Emirates ID. Every application is filed via icp.gov.ae, the UAEICP mobile app, or through an ICP-registered typing centre.
This guide covers every visa type, exact steps, official fees, required documents, and the most common mistakes — for employment, family, investor, and Green Visa applicants.
Need help with this process? Al Qalam Typing Center handles every step — from document preparation to final submission.
Residence Visa Types Available in Sharjah
| Visa Type | Validity | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Employment | 2 or 3 years | Private sector employees with valid labour contract |
| Investor / Partner | 3 years | UAE mainland or free zone business owners |
| Family Sponsorship | 1–3 years | Spouse, children, parents (salary threshold required) |
| Green Visa | 5 years | Freelancers, skilled workers, investors (self-sponsored) |
| Golden Visa | 10 years | Investors, real estate owners, exceptional talents |
| Student | 1 year (renewable) | Full-time students at UAE institutions |
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Residence Visa in Sharjah
Phase 1 — Entry Permit
Your sponsor (employer, company, or family member) applies for an entry permit via ICP Smart Services or through a typing centre. Processing takes 1–3 working days. The entry permit is valid for 60 days from issue and allows you to enter the UAE legally for the residency process.
Phase 2 — Medical Fitness Test
Undergo the mandatory medical fitness test at an approved ICP centre. Bring your passport and entry permit. Results are typically ready within 24 hours. Smart Salem fast-track testing delivers results in 3–4 hours.
Phase 3 — Emirates ID Biometrics
Submit your Emirates ID application (via typing centre or online) and visit an ICP Customer Happiness Centre for fingerprint and photo registration. The Fawri express service delivers the EID within 24–48 hours.
Phase 4 — Visa Stamping
Once the medical and EID biometrics are complete, the residence visa is stamped in the passport. Processing takes 3–5 working days. Your status is then updated in the ICP system and can be verified online.
Residence Visa Fees in Sharjah (2026)
| Service | Approx. Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Entry permit | 100–200 |
| Medical fitness test | 280–430 |
| Emirates ID (2-year) | 300 |
| Visa stamping (ICP) | 200–500 depending on category |
| ICP Smart Service Fee | 100 per electronic transaction |
| Typing centre service | 70–200 |
Documents Required
- Valid passport (min 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photograph (white background, ICAO standard)
- Entry permit (employer or sponsor applies)
- Medical fitness certificate
- Health insurance certificate
- Employment contract or sponsor letter (as applicable)
- Tenancy/accommodation proof (for family visa applicants)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who processes residence visas in Sharjah — GDRFA or ICP?
ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) handles all residence visas in Sharjah and all UAE emirates except Dubai. Use icp.gov.ae or an ICP-registered typing centre for any Sharjah visa.
How long does the residence visa process take in Sharjah?
From document submission, the full process typically takes 5–10 working days. Using Smart Salem fast-track medical and Fawri Emirates ID can reduce this to under 3 working days in some cases.
What is the minimum salary to sponsor family in Sharjah?
AED 4,000/month to sponsor a spouse and children (or AED 3,000 + employer accommodation). AED 10,000/month to sponsor parents.
Need help with this process? Al Qalam Typing Center handles every step — from document preparation to final submission.