Dubai has become a worldwide destination for business owners due to its strong economy, strategic location, tax-free benefits and business-friendly atmosphere. Dubai gives many opportunities for freelancers, investors, entrepreneurs, and partners of UAE-based companies and offers various benefits to start a business.
However, one of the most common questions people have before starting a company in Dubai is concerning visa requirements. Is a visa necessary to start a business in Dubai? How much does it cost, and what is the process of getting a business visa in UAE? What are the options?
This post will answer all these queries as we look into the different types of visas, the application process and how much each one costs.
Dubai has made it simple to start a business because the government policies facilitate residents and non-residents and have taken major steps towards creating a welcoming, open, and transparent business environment. It means the UAE Government gives business owners flexibility in visa requirements to start a business there.
A visa is only sometimes necessary to register a business in Dubai because the company can be registered remotely or without a physical appearance in some jurisdictions, especially in the Free Zone.
Free Zones are defined locations where foreign entrepreneurs can control 100% of their businesses without a local sponsor and can operate without a specific visa. Each Free Zone has its own laws and regulations.
A visa is often needed if you plan to reside in Dubai and start a mainland company, and you must work with a local sponsor with 51% of the company’s shares. Dubai Business Setup Services always helps any foreigner to start a business in Dubai and obtain a business or residency visa.
Manage your business actively: You need to be physically present for many important decisions, client meetings, bank account openings and transactions.
Get a work permit: It is necessary for employing and supervising staff.
Obtain long-term residency: Several visas provide you and your family with long-term residency options.
Get tax advantages: Some visa types give you tax benefits like 0% income tax and only 9% corporate tax.
Increased credibility: Your visa can show your commitment to your business and the UAE economy.
Dubai provides various visa options designed to the needs of entrepreneurs, providing flexibility based on your company structure and investment kind.
The Golden Visa is designed for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. It provides ten years of renewable long-term residence. For the eligibility for Golden visa, investors either invest AED 2 million in the UAE real estate market or deposit the same amount of AED 2 million in a local UAE bank.
Entrepreneurs that are prepared to pay the government 250,000 AED in VAT annually are eligible for the Golden Visa UAE.
This visa provides stability by allowing visa holders to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor and also sponsor their spouses, children and parents.
The investor Visa is typically perfect when people invest in new business or buy shares of existing companies in Dubai. It is renewable and usually valid for two years. This kind of visa depends on the type of investment and the application may be submitted directly to a free zone authority or through a local sponsor.
The Partner Visa or Business visa is for individuals who are partners in Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) or free zone entities. Due to its residency advantages, co-owners can lawfully live in Dubai and actively manage their share of the company. This visa is especially prevalent for those creating partnership projects.
The Freelance Visa is a great opportunity for independent professionals. This visa is perfect for freelancers working in media, technology, education, and consultancy sectors, and helps sole proprietorships operate legally within Dubai. Nonetheless, this kind of visa requires a freelance permit in a recognized free zone.
This visa is valid for one year, and applicants must provide proof of knowledge and experience in their industry, a portfolio of previous work, or a history of contracts and client testimonials.
You must fulfill certain requirements and submit the necessary documents with error-free application to get a business visa for Dubai. Here is what is usually required:
The additional requirements may differ based on the visa type and business jurisdiction (free zone or mainland).
The visa application procedure may be complicated. However, Dubai Business Setup Services help you to make the process easier by following these steps:
Select a Visa Type. Choose the best visa category based on your company operations and investment goals.
Choose a Jurisdiction: Decide between a Dubai free zone and the mainland based on your business requirements.
Prepare the required documents. Dubai Business Setup Services helps to collect all the necessary documents, like a valid passport, visa application form, financial statements, investment and business registration papers, and NOC (if applicable).
Submit Application: Dubai Business Setup Services fill out an error-free visa application and submit your application form with visa fees to the appropriate government agency or a certified immigration representative.
Medical Test: To ensure healthy health, get a medical test conducted at authorized health centers.
Visa Issuance: You will get a visa in 2 weeks after your application is approved.
Get Emirates ID: You can now apply for Emirates ID, it will be your identity in UAE.
There are many options to start a business in Dubai, but a successful entrepreneurial journey depends on understanding the visa requirements.
While you can start your business with a visa, You have several advantages, like residence freedoms, access to local modern facilities, and the opportunity to sponsor family and staff.
With Dubai Business Setup Services, you can easily handle all hurdles. Their expert ensures that your company setup and visa applications are completed smoothly, saving you time and effort. If you’re ready to start your business in Dubai, let them assist you make your dreams a reality.
Although you can start a business in Dubai without a visa, you must have a valid resident visa if you want to live in Dubai to operate your company directly.
This usually takes place in 1 to 2 weeks, based on the type of visa, gathering documents, and acquiring authorizations from authorities.
The kind and length of the visa affect the price. Golden Visas may cost from 10,000 to AED 15,000 or more, while 2-year investor visas cost between AED 12,500 and AED 25,500. The partner visas might cost anywhere between AED 3,500 and AED 5,000, depending on the jurisdiction and type of business.
The total price of a freelancer’s visa, including freelancing permits, can range between AED 7,500 and AED 20,000. Medical examinations and applications for Emirates ID are included in these expenses.
You can use a visitor’s visa to start a company in the UAE. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines to be careful. You may study business prospects, complete market research, and establish the foundation for your company while on a visit visa.
However, you cannot legally engage in business operations or sign agreements when you have the required business license or permission. When you’re prepared to legally start your company and conduct business according to the UAE law, you have to change to the appropriate visa or residence status.
