What is UAE Visa Insurance?
Federal Mandate (January 2025)
The UAE government has unified health insurance requirements across all seven Emirates. Every visa holder—employees, investors, dependents, and domestic workers—must have active health insurance to obtain or renew their residency permit.
Visa insurance refers to the mandatory health insurance coverage required by UAE immigration authorities (ICP and GDRFA) to process visa applications and renewals. The insurance must be issued by a provider licensed in the specific emirate where the visa is registered.
This requirement serves two purposes: ensuring all residents have access to healthcare, and reducing the burden on government-funded medical services.
Mandatory
Required for all visas
Unified
All 7 Emirates covered
Integrated
Synced with ICP systems
Who Needs Visa Insurance?
The short answer: everyone with a UAE visa. Here's a breakdown by visa type:
Employees
All employees under employment visas, whether full-time or part-time. Employers are typically responsible for providing coverage as part of the employment package. Employees earning under AED 4,000/month qualify for the cost-controlled Essential Benefits Plan (EBP).
Investors & Business Owners
Partners, shareholders, and business owners with investor visas must arrange their own coverage. Enhanced plans with higher limits are typically recommended for this category.
Dependents
Spouses, children, and sometimes parents sponsored under a family visa require coverage. The sponsor (employee or investor) is typically responsible for arranging and paying for dependent insurance.
Domestic Workers
Housemaids, drivers, nannies, and other domestic staff require basic coverage. Special plans exist for this category at controlled prices.
đź“‹ Quick Check
Not sure what coverage you need? Use our eligibility checker to get personalized guidance.
Check My EligibilityTypes of Coverage
Essential Benefits Plan (EBP)
Government-regulated basic coverage for employees earning under AED 4,000/month. The EBP is standardized across all Emirates with controlled pricing.
Standard Plans
Comprehensive coverage meeting all visa requirements with additional benefits like specialist consultations, enhanced maternity, and basic dental/optical.
Enhanced/Premium Plans
Full-featured coverage with international options, mental health, alternative treatments, and private room accommodations.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs vary significantly based on the coverage tier, emirate, age, and number of dependents. Here are indicative ranges:
| Plan Type | Annual Premium | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| EBP | AED 650 – 850/year | Employees under AED 4,000/month |
| Standard | AED 1,500 – 3,500/year | Most employees and dependents |
| Enhanced | AED 4,000 – 12,000/year | Executives, investors, comprehensive needs |
* Prices are indicative starting rates for individual coverage and subject to underwriting. Family plans and specific conditions may affect pricing.
Application Process
Determine Coverage Requirements
Identify your visa type, emirate, and whether you qualify for EBP (salary under AED 4,000/month).
Gather Documents
Prepare Emirates ID (or passport), visa copy, employment contract or salary certificate, and recent photograph.
Get Quotes from Licensed Providers
Contact DHA/DOH/MOHAP licensed insurers or use our partner matching service for compliant quotes.
Purchase & Activate Policy
Complete payment and receive your policy. The insurer uploads your certificate to the relevant health authority system.
Proceed with Visa Application
Your insurance certificate is now synced with ICP/GDRFA. You can proceed with your visa application or renewal.
Typical Timeline
24-48 hours for standard applications. Same-day for EBP plans in most cases.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Don't Risk Your Visa
Non-compliance with insurance requirements can result in visa rejection, cancellation, and significant financial penalties.
For Employers
- Monthly fines per uninsured employee
- Inability to process new work permits
- Potential business license implications
For Individuals
- Visa application/renewal rejection
- Risk of visa cancellation
- Full cost liability for medical treatment
Ready to Get Covered?
Use our tools to check your eligibility, estimate costs, or get matched with a licensed partner.