Investors who are looking to set up their business in the thriving economy of Dubai can simply do so with the help of investor visa Dubai. Dubai is well-known for its rising economy, strategic location, and business-friendly environment, which offer excellent opportunities for investment and expansion. This visa not only grants you simple entry and residency in one of the world’s most lively cities, but it also creates new prospects for your business.
Understanding the process of obtaining a Dubai investor visa is crucial for anyone looking to invest in real estate, start a business in Dubai, or expand an existing one.
What is the Dubai Investor Visa?
The Dubai investor visa, also known as the partner visa, is a popular option for foreigners looking to start a business or invest in an existing one in Dubai. This visa allows visitors to do business, live, work, and sponsor family members in Dubai.
Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining the Dubai Investor Visa
To apply for the Dubai investor visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. According to the Dubai investor visa rules, this visa is granted to individuals who either:
- Invest in existing firm shares with a minimum value of AED 10 million.
- Create a new corporation with a capital investment of AED 10 million.
Documents Required to Apply for Investor VISA in Dubai
If you plan to invest in or establish a company on Dubai’s mainland, you’ll need the following documents for the Dubai investor visa application:
- Immigration Establishment Card
- Bank statement covering the past 6 months
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) as proof of share ownership
- Passport copy
- Copy of Trade Licence Dubai
- One photograph with a white background
Previously, a UAE national or an agent was required as the majority shareholder. However, recent changes in the rules now allow complete foreign ownership in Dubai mainland.
Application Process for Dubai Investor VISA
The application process for the Dubai investor visa involves several steps:
- Apply for an entry permit online.
- Register for an investment visa in person or online at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Present a good conduct certificate from the Dubai Police.
- As part of your visa application, you must purchase health insurance.
- To get a medical fitness test, go to a government health center.
- Obtain a letter of no objection from your bank.
- Please provide a bank statement.
Types of Dubai Investor Visas Available
1. Real Estate Investor Visa
This visa is designed for individuals who invest in property in Dubai. It allows foreign investors to reside in the UAE as long as they own real estate that meets the minimum value requirement.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Applicants must invest in residential or commercial property worth at least AED 750,000 (approximately USD 204,000).
- Validity: The visa can be issued for 3 or 5 years, depending on the value of the property.
- Renewability: Renewable as long as the investor maintains ownership of the property.
Advantages:
- Investors can sponsor family members for residence visas.
- The visa holder is allowed to live in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor.
Disadvantages:
- Property must be fully paid for; properties under a mortgage may not qualify unless 50% is paid off.
2. Company Investor Visa
The company investor visa, also known as the “partner visa,” is intended for individuals who establish or invest in a business in Dubai.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Individuals must either own shares in a UAE-based company valued at AED 72,000 (approximately USD 19,600) or establish their own company with a minimum investment of this amount.
- Validity: Typically issued for 3 years.
- Renewability: Renewable based on continued investment and business operations.
Advantages:
- Investors can sponsor family members.
- It provides full legal residency in the UAE.
- Holders can open bank accounts and access business services.
Disadvantages:
- The visa is tied to the continued operation of the business, and any changes in the business structure may affect visa eligibility.
3. Long-Term Residence Visa (Golden Visa)
Introduced in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa available for investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with extraordinary talents. It provides extended residency options and more significant benefits than regular investor visas.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Investors who invest at least AED 10 million (approximately USD 2.7 million) in public investments such as companies, investment funds, or partnerships.
- Investment Criteria: The investment can be made in:
- A company or an existing business (up to 60% of the total investment).
- Real estate (a portion of the investment).
- UAE government bonds.
- Validity: 5 or 10 years depending on the investment.
- Renewability: Renewable after the visa term expires.
Advantages:
- No need for a local sponsor.
- Investors can sponsor family members, including spouses and children.
- Full access to UAE banking and business services.
Disadvantages:
- Significant investment amount required.
- Continuous involvement in the business or investment is required to maintain the visa.
4. Retirement Investor Visa
The retirement investor visa is designed for retirees who wish to live in Dubai and maintain their investments during their retirement years.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Applicants must either own property valued at AED 1 million (approximately USD 272,000), have financial savings of at least AED 1 million, or have an income of AED 20,000 (approximately USD 5,500) per month.
- Validity: Issued for 5 years.
- Renewability: Renewable if the individual continues to meet the criteria.
Advantages:
- A visa holder can sponsor their spouse and dependents.
- Offers a relaxed lifestyle with tax advantages for retirees.
Disadvantages:
- Applicants must meet stringent financial criteria, which may not be feasible for all retirees.
5. Start-Up Investor Visa
Aimed at entrepreneurs and startup investors, this visa allows individuals to establish and operate a business in Dubai. It supports the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for innovation.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs must have an innovative startup idea and receive approval from a recognized UAE business incubator.
- Validity: Issued for up to 3 years.
- Renewability: Renewable if the business continues to operate successfully.
Advantages:
- Investors can benefit from Dubai’s supportive startup ecosystem.
- Access to business incubators and venture capital networks.
- Entrepreneurs can sponsor family members.
Disadvantages:
- Businesses must demonstrate innovation and have backing from recognized business incubators.
6. Freelancer Investor Visa
This visa is targeted at investors who want to operate as freelancers in the UAE. It is ideal for individuals in specific fields such as media, technology, and creative industries.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Applicants must prove that they have relevant skills and experience in the chosen field. Certain free zones in Dubai, such as Dubai Media City, offer freelance permits.
- Validity: Typically valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type of permit and free zone regulations.
- Renewability: Renewable based on continued professional activity.
Advantages:
- Provides flexibility for freelancers to work with multiple clients.
- Can sponsor family members.
Disadvantages:
- Limited to specific professions and free zones.
7. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Investor Visa
For investors looking to operate within the financial services sector, the DIFC investor visa is a suitable option. DIFC is a financial-free zone offering a favorable regulatory environment for finance-related businesses.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: Must be involved in financial services or own a business within DIFC.
- Validity: Typically issued for 3 years.
- Renewability: Renewable based on continued business operations within DIFC.
Advantages:
- Access to Dubai’s premier financial hub.
- Full legal residency and business benefits in the UAE.
Disadvantages:
- Limited to financial services and businesses within DIFC.
Starting your own business in Dubai and securing a Dubai investor visa brings an array of benefits:
Residency
An investor visa is valid for three years, automatically entitling you to a three-year Dubai residence visa.
Sponsorship for Family
With an investor visa, you have the privilege of sponsoring your immediate family members – your spouse, children, and parents – to become residents of the UAE.
Golden Visa Pathway
Having an investment visa and fostering a successful company endeavour in the UAE improves your chances of earning the coveted UAE Golden Visa. The Golden Visa, which was introduced in 2019, awards investors and entrepreneurs with a 10-year UAE residency visa, to promote business development and recognize their contributions to the country’s economic success.
Seamless Travel
Holding a Dubai investor visa streamlines your travel to GCC countries for business or leisure. Unlike job visas, it expedites the process of obtaining a travel visa to certain regions.
Extended Stay Abroad
A Dubai investor visa allows you to live outside the UAE for up to one year consecutively, without nullifying your residency. In contrast, employment or dependent visas permit a maximum of six months outside the UAE.
Cost for Investor Visa in Dubai
The cost of a Dubai investor visa varies depending on your circumstances and the application channel you use. The following fees are charged when applying through an Amer centre:
- Entry permit: AED 1,175 for UAE residents and AED 525 for visitors from other countries
- AED 675 for a change of status (not necessary for persons entering from outside the UAE)
- Visa stamping costs around AED 870
- Emirates ID: AED 500
- Medical Tests: AED 350
Conclusion
Obtaining a Dubai investor visa provides access to a world of opportunity in one of the world’s most lively and economically prosperous cities. With its strategic position, robust infrastructure, and investor-friendly legislation, Dubai continues to attract entrepreneurs and business experts from all over the world. Navigating the visa application procedure can be difficult, but the benefits are significant, providing a road to not only build and grow your business but also enjoy the many advantages of living in this international metropolis.
If you are thinking of registering a business in Dubai, OnDemand International experts are here to help you every step of the process. Our experts can help you obtain a Dubai investor visa, assuring a smooth and efficient process. Contact our specialists to maximize the potential of your business in one of the world’s top business locations.
FAQ’s
Yes, according to the Dubai investor visa programme, purchasing real estate in Dubai can result in a residence permit if the building has been finished at the time of purchase and is worth at least AED 1 million.
To obtain a lifelong investor visa in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, you must invest AED 10 million in the civil sector or AED 5 million in property. AED 1,000 to AED 1,100 for an entry permit, AED 670 for a change of status, and AED 900 for visa stamping.
Holders of a Dubai Investor Visa enjoy a tax-free environment as well as access to over 70 double tax treaties with various jurisdictions. The UAE provides high-quality goods and services, and visa holders have complete access to all Dubai facilities, including transportation and communication.
Yes, you can invite close family members to reside with you in Dubai if you have an investment visa.
You can check the validity of your UAE visa by passport number using ICA Smart Services.
Yes, a UK resident can obtain an investor visa in Dubai, which is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai offers a range of investor visas designed to attract foreign capital and encourage business development.
Yes, a medical examination is required to obtain a Dubai Investor Visa, as it is mandatory for all UAE visas.
The validity period of the Dubai investor visa depends on the investment amount:
- Investment of AED 1 million or more: 2 years visa
- Investment of AED 5 million or more: 5 years visa
- Investment of AED 10 million or more: 10 years visa
Yes, you can sponsor your family members for residency on your Dubai Residence Visa. This includes your spouse, unmarried children under the age of 18, and dependent parents.