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The UAE is a wonderful place with many opportunities, so everyone wants to start a business here. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to get a business visa for the UAE. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to establish a business in the UAE or a professional seeking to explore investment opportunities, understanding the UAE business visa process is essential.
For those considering expanding their business interests beyond the Middle East, learning about Australia’s business visa requirements could be beneficial. This comparison can provide insights into another dynamic business environment, helping you to make informed decisions about international business expansion.
Table of Contents
What Is the Business Visa For UAE?
The UAE business visa is designed to provide long-term visas to foreigners and expatriates as part of the Golden Visa residency program initiated in 2019. The Golden Visa system allows expatriates to study, live, and work in the UAE without needing a national sponsor and grants them full ownership of their business in the country.
Entrepreneurs who have established their businesses and wish to do so again in the UAE can also apply for this type of visa.
A 6-month temporary visa is available for individuals outside the UAE for multiple entries. Those residing within the UAE can obtain a 1-month visa. In both cases, the visas must be converted to residency permits before the temporary visa expires.
Business Visa in Dubai UAE: Types
Several types of visas are available in the UAE for individuals and investors, including the UAE business visa, the Golden Visa, the freelance visa, and the spouse visa. Understanding the differences between these visas is essential to determining which one best suits your needs and whether you meet the eligibility criteria.
The business visas in the UAE can be broadly categorised into
- Visit visas (single and multi-entry)
- Residence visas (sponsored and self-sponsored)
Visit Visas
Visit visas for business purposes enable individuals to take short trips to the UAE. This document allows them to participate in business conferences and meetings, conduct short-term business trips, and explore investment opportunities. These visas are available in two types: single-entry and multi-entry.
Single-entry
When applying for a single-entry business visa in the UAE, keep in mind that this type of visa allows one entry into the country, which means once you have entered and left the UAE, you will need to apply for a new visa if you wish to return. For multiple entries, it is advisable to opt for a multi-entry visa.
This type of visa is commonly used for conducting market research, evaluating business opportunities, and self-sponsored travel for business expansion. It is available for 60, 90, and 120 days.
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must demonstrate financial stability and professional success in their home country and meet certain financial guarantees.
To apply for a single-entry business visa, visit the official website, complete the required information, submit the necessary documentation, and pay the relevant visa and service fees. Once the process is complete, you will receive the service by email.
The cost of the single-entry business visa in the UAE varies based on its duration, with security deposits and fees ranging from AED 500-900. The security deposit is AED 1000, however for
- 60-day visa: AED 500-600
- 90-day visa: AED 600-700
- 120-day visa: AED 800-900
Multi-entry
A multi-entry business visa for the UAE allows holders to enter and exit the Emirates freely. Unlike a single-entry visa, which permits only one entry, the multi-entry visa enables holders to return to their home country and re-enter the UAE without needing another visa application.
Furthermore, this visa allows holders to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days and provides the option to extend the stay for an additional 90 days. This flexibility benefits individuals conducting business research or attending conferences and meetings in the UAE.
To apply for this visa, you will need to follow these steps:
- Log in to the GDRFAD or ICP website.
- Complete the application form.
- Attach the necessary documentation, including a personal photo, a copy of your passport, a bank statement, health insurance, and a round-trip ticket.
- Pay the required fees.
- Apply and await approval.
Residence Visas
If a business owner or investor plans to conduct continuous operations in the UAE, they should consider applying for a UAE Residence visa rather than a Visit Visa. This type of visa is available to investors who are running a business in the UAE and can be valid for 2, 5, or more years, depending on the option chosen.
There are two types of residence visas for conducting business in the UAE:
Self-sponsored: With this type of visa, there is no need for a local sponsor.
Sponsored
To operate your business while living in the UAE, you can obtain a sponsored business visa requiring a local sponsor. After setting up your company and obtaining your establishment card, you can proceed with the visa application using your documentation as evidence of residency.
These visas are typically valid for three years, and the cost of a business visa in the UAE can start from AED 10,000.
Self-sponsored
If you are interested in obtaining a business visa for the UAE with ease, consider applying for a self-sponsored visa. Various types are available, and selecting one for which you meet the eligibility criteria is important. Some common options include:
1. Green visa for investors: This visa allows participation in commercial activities and residence in the UAE for up to 2 years. To obtain this visa, you will need approval from the ICP, evidence of investment, and approval from local authorities.
- Golden Visa: This is a long-term residence visa that permits a 5 to 10-year stay in the UAE. As a business owner, you must invest at least AED 2 million.
Furthermore, once an individual secures a residence visa, they can apply for a Family Visa UAE, enabling their loved ones to join them in enjoying life in the Emirates.
UAE Business Visa Benefits
In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides in simplifying the business establishment process by implementing more efficient regulations and reducing bureaucratic barriers. This has created a favourable environment for businesses operating in the Emirates, with various locations to consider.
- One attractive business option is the free trade zones, which provide competitive setup packages, incentives, reduced costs, and tax benefits. The Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) in the capital city of Abu Dhabi is a notable example of such a location.
- Obtaining a UAE business visa allows the holder to enter the country for 6 months with a multiple-entry visa, facilitating setting up the business, exploring growth opportunities, and settling in. Additionally, the visa allows the applicant to nominate up to three senior staff members from the company to obtain UAE residency.
- Business visa holders in the UAE can sponsor their dependents, subject to the requirements and conditions set by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security.
UAE Business Visa Requirements
To apply for a UAE business visa, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria,
- being over 18 years old,
- having a passport with at least six months validity, and
- Provide financial proof of your ability to support your stay, among other requirements.
- You must also have a clean criminal history and submit documents such as your business registration, certificates, and professional qualifications.
Suppose you apply for the UAE business visa under the Golden Residence for Entrepreneurs. In that case, you will need to
- demonstrate your experience as an entrepreneur in the UAE and propose a business idea or plan.
- you must be willing to relocate to the UAE and establish a business legally in any one of the seven emirates.
The UAE business visa under the Golden Residence for Entrepreneurs can be obtained if you meet specific circumstances, such as
- being a founder of a previous entrepreneurial project that was sold with a total value of not less than AED 7 million (USD 19,05,850.80) or
- obtaining approval from the Ministry of Economy or the competent local authorities for your projects or ideas.
To apply for a business visa, you need to submit various documents, including a
- valid passport copy,
- passport-size photographs,
- a cover stating the purpose
- duration of your stay,
- proof of investment if applicable.
To successfully apply for the visa, your nomination must be approved by a government-supported business incubator in the UAE, such as HUB71 in Abu Dhabi or AREA2071 in Dubai. Once your nomination is approved, you will receive an invitation to apply for a UAE business visa from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
If your business visa application is rejected, you can reapply after 90 days. To navigate the application process effectively, it is advisable to seek assistance from a local business consultant or legal advisor.
UAE Business Visa Processing Time
The application process is expected to last approximately 60 days. This includes a 30-day initial review period and an additional 30 days for applicants to fulfil all requirements after being nominated successfully.
Extension Of UAE Business Visa:
As mentioned, applicants outside the UAE will receive a 6-month visa to enter the country and explore business opportunities. Before the expiration of this temporary visa, they must convert it into a residency permit.
How To Get a BUSINESS VISA For UAE ONLINE?
To apply for a UAE Business Visa, you must have your application approved by a UAE Government-approved incubator for the initial nomination.
Once your nomination is successful, you must apply for the UAE Business Visa through the ICA. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the nomination application process:
- Create a user account on the official website of the UAE Golden Visa.
- log in and apply for the nomination after verifying your account.
- Submit your application in full.
- The review process typically takes around 30 days. If your nomination is approved, you will receive a link via email to upload the necessary visa documents. If your nomination is not approved, you can reapply after 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of a business visa in the UAE typically ranges from AED 3,500 to AED 7,500, and additional charges include application processing fees, medical tests, and Emirates ID fees.
UAE offers Golden Visas to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals, providing long-term residency for 5 to 10 years. These visas allow residents to easily live, work, and study in the UAE.
To secure a lifetime investor visa in Dubai or any other part of the UAE, you must invest AED 10 million in the civil sector or commit a minimum of AED 5 million in property investment. Entry permit costs typically range from AED 10,000 to 15,000.
Conclusion
Understanding the business visa process is crucial for those seeking how to get a business visa for UAE. The UAE offers various visa options, including visit visas for short business trips and residence visas for continuous operations. Whether you are an entrepreneur or an investor, choosing the right visa type that suits your needs and eligibility is important.
For personalised assistance and expert guidance on obtaining a business visa for the UAE, consider contacting Legend Consults, a trusted advisory firm specialising in immigration and business services. Contact us today for tailored support and seamless visa processing.
