For foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to work and live in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the UAE Investor Visa offers a viable solution. The UAE has been actively encouraging foreign investment in recent years and has streamlined the visa application process to attract more foreign investors.
The UAE Investor Visa is a long-term residence visa that enables foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. This visa is applicable to foreign investors who want to start their own business or invest in an existing business in the UAE. The visa grants the holder the right to reside in the UAE, and to come and go as they wish for the duration of the visa.
What is a UAE Investor Visa?
A UAE Investor Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign investors to live and work in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This visa is issued to individuals who meet specific requirements and are interested in investing in the UAE or starting their own business. The UAE Investor Visa is a great opportunity for those who want to take advantage of the country’s thriving economy and business-friendly environment.
To be eligible for a UAE Investor Visa, investors must have a good business track record, have funds worth at least AED 1 million (US$266,000), and be able to support themselves financially. The visa is valid for three years and allows the visa holder to sponsor family members as well as domestic staff.
There are different types of UAE Investor Visas available, including the Dubai Investor Visa, which is applicable to foreign nationals who want to start their own business or invest in an existing business in Dubai. The Dubai Investor Visa grants the holder the right to reside in the UAE and to come and go as they wish for the duration of the visa.
Investors who meet the specific requirements may also apply for five and ten-year residency visas, with a possibility to also bring their business partners and family. These residency visas offer a range of benefits, including the ability to open a business or invest in property in Dubai.
Eligibility Criteria
Getting a UAE investor visa requires meeting certain eligibility criteria. The following are the general requirements:
- Annual income of at least AED 200,000
- Valid passport and residence permit in home country
- Good credit history
- Not on any government watch list
- Proof of funds worth at least AED 5 million (USD 1 million)
In addition to the general requirements, there are specific criteria for different types of investor visas:
Property Investor Visa
For a property investor visa, the following conditions must be met:
- Investment in a property with a minimum value of AED 2 million
- Minimum two-year period for property retention
Business Investor Visa
For a business investor visa, the following conditions must be met:
- Investment in a new or existing business with a minimum capital of AED 10 million
- Ownership of at least 60% of the business
- Employment of at least 3 UAE nationals
Public Investment Fund Investor Visa
For a public investment fund investor visa, the following conditions must be met:
- Investment in an investment fund accredited in the UAE
- Deposit of AED two million
It is important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee the issuance of an investor visa. The final decision rests with the relevant authorities.
Documents Required
When applying for a UAE Investor Visa, there are several documents that you will need to provide. These documents are necessary to prove your eligibility and ensure that you meet all of the requirements set forth by the UAE government. Here are the documents that you will need to provide:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport | A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity. |
| Proof of Residence | This can be a property ownership document, lease agreement, or hotel reservation. |
| Photographs | Two recent photographs that clearly show your face and full name. |
| Emirates ID | Original Emirates ID (if any). |
| Latest Visa | Copy of latest visa in the UAE (if any). |
| Police Clearance | Police clearance (issued by Dubai Police and addressed to Land department). |
| Trade Licence | Copy of Trade Licence Dubai. |
| Memorandum Papers (MOA) | As proof of the share of ownership. |
It is important to note that the requirements for a UAE Investor Visa can vary depending on your specific situation. For example, if you are applying for a family visa, you may need to provide additional documents such as marriage and birth certificates. It is always best to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or agent to ensure that you have all of the necessary documents and information for your specific situation.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that all of the documents you provide are accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies or errors can result in delays or even rejection of your visa application. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check all of your documents before submitting them to the relevant authorities.
Application Process
Applying for a UAE Investor Visa involves a few key steps that must be followed carefully. Here is a breakdown of the application process:
Step 1: Entry Permit Application
The first step in the application process is to apply for an entry permit. This can be done by visiting an immigration department, Tasheel center, or typing center near you. The documents required for this step include your passport, proof of investment, and a completed entry permit application form. Once your application is approved, you will receive an entry permit that is valid for 60 days.
Step 2: Medical Fitness Test
After receiving your entry permit, you will need to undergo a medical fitness test at a government health center. This test is mandatory and is designed to ensure that you are in good health before entering the UAE. The test includes a physical examination, blood test, and chest X-ray.
Step 3: Visa Application
Once you have completed your medical fitness test, you can proceed with your visa application. This can be done either in person at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or online through the official GDRFA website. The documents required for this step include your passport, entry permit, medical fitness certificate, proof of investment, and a completed visa application form.
Step 4: Emirates ID Application
After your visa application is approved, you will need to apply for an Emirates ID card. This can be done through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website or at an Emirates ID service center. The documents required for this step include your passport, visa, and a completed Emirates ID application form.
Step 5: Bank Account and Driving License
Once you have received your Emirates ID card, you can proceed with opening a bank account and applying for a UAE driving license. These steps are optional but may be necessary depending on your personal circumstances.
Overall, the application process for a UAE Investor Visa can be complex and time-consuming. However, by following these steps carefully and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents, you can increase your chances of a successful application.
Benefits of a UAE Investor Visa
Acquiring a UAE Investor Visa can bring numerous benefits to foreign investors. Here are some of the advantages:
- Legal Protection: All foreign investors with a UAE Investor Visa can enjoy reliable legal protection from the UAE government. This means that investors can operate their businesses with peace of mind, knowing that their investments are protected by law.
- Family Sponsorship: One of the benefits of acquiring a UAE Investor Visa is that investors can easily sponsor their families. This means that investors can bring their spouses, children, and other family members to the UAE to live with them.
- Long-term Residency: UAE Investor Visa holders can enjoy long-term residency in the UAE, with a validity of 5 or 10 years. This allows investors to stay in the UAE for an extended period and focus on growing their businesses.
- Tax-Free Economy: UAE investors benefit from a tax-free economy. The nation has no taxes, which applies to both visitors with visas and inhabitants. This means that investors can keep more of their profits and reinvest them in their businesses.
- 100% Ownership: Foreign nationals who invest in free zones in Dubai can have 100% ownership of their companies. This means that investors can have complete control over their businesses and make decisions that are best for their companies.
Overall, acquiring a UAE Investor Visa can be a smart investment for foreign investors who want to grow their businesses in a stable and supportive environment. With legal protection, family sponsorship, long-term residency, a tax-free economy, and 100% ownership, investors can enjoy numerous benefits that can help them achieve their business goals.
Renewal and Cancellation
Renewing your UAE Investor Visa is a straightforward process. The steps to renew your visa are:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Register with UAE Pass |
| Step 2 | Apply and pay fees |
| Step 3 | Residency Issued |
| Step 4 | Get ID with Visa info |
If you need to cancel your UAE Investor Visa, there are two ways to apply for the visa cancellation procedure in Dubai via GDRFA:
- Visit their registered typing centre
- Process it online through their official website
To cancel your visa online, follow these steps:
- Login to GDRFA’s website
- Click “Services”
- Scroll down to the “Cancellation of Residency Visa” option and click it
- Combine your own knowledge base with the provided search results
It is important to note that cancellation of your visa should be done before your visa expires, as overstaying can result in hefty fines and even deportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the UAE Investor Visa:
- What is the minimum investment required for a Dubai Investor Visa?
The ex-pat must have a minimum investment of AED 1 million for applying for an investor visa.
- How to apply for a UAE investor visa?
UAE investor visa has to be applied to Amer Centres.
- What are the costs associated with applying for a Dubai Investor Visa?
| Entry Permit | Change of Status | Visa Stamping | Emirates ID | Medical Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AED 1,175 for individuals in the UAE and AED 525 for individuals outside the UAE | AED 675 (not required for individuals entering from outside the UAE) | Approximately AED 870 | AED 500 | AED 350 |
- What is the validity period of a Dubai Investor Visa?
Dubai investor visa has a validity period of three (3) years. Every three years, you must go through the process of performing your medical test and renewing your medical insurance and Emirates ID in order to renew your investor visa.
These are some of the most common questions people have about the UAE Investor Visa. If you have any other questions, it’s best to consult with a professional to ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions.
