Readers were left with more questions after an announcement that visa renewals in the UAE would be tied to tenancy contracts. Below, the General Directorate of Residence and Foreign Affairs has provided some answers.
Q: Is this requirement UAE-wide, or only for Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah?
A: The new visa rules are equally implemented in all Emirates.
Q: What is the process for sponsored spouses who are not named on tenancy contracts?
A: The Sponsor must have the municipality attest a copy of his tenancy agreement, and attach it to the visa application for his spouse and children.
Q: What does this mean for those sharing an apartment who do not have separate tenancy agreements? Is it illegal to rent out a room?
A: All sharing individuals must now be named on tenancy contracts.
Q: What about bachelors who are sharing rooms in company residences or labour camps?
A: They need to provide a company contract letter specifying their names.
Q: What does this mean for new arrivals, who are required to have a residency visa in order to get a tenancy agreement?
A: The sponsor's documents will be sufficient for newly arriving persons to the UAE.
Q: What about apartments that are in the name of the company?
A: A company's contract letter is to be attached with the visa application.
Q: What about residents who choose to live long-term in hotel apartments?
A: A copy of the contract signed with the hotel will suffice.
anwar@thenational.ae
