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Business Immigration

Here is a detailed breakdown of

Dubai active business immigration options, including eligibility criteria, requirements, step-by-step application procedures, processing times, and associated costs for each program.

Types of Business Immigration Pathways in Dubai

  • Investor Visa: For individuals investing in business or real estate in Dubai.
     

  • Entrepreneur Visa: Designed for individuals starting or managing a business, often granted under the Dubai Startup Visa initiatives.
     

  • Freelance Visa: For self-employed individuals or those offering professional services.
     

  • Golden Visa: A long-term residency visa (5-10 years) granted to investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals.
     

  • Company Formation Pathway (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore): Depending on business setup type and target market.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Investor Visa
 

  • Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth at least AED 750,000 (approx. $204,000 USD).

  • Business Investment: Investment in a company or incorporation of a new business in Dubai.

  • Ownership Stake: Typically requires owning shares in a UAE company worth a minimum investment amount (specifics may vary by sector).
     

2. Entrepreneur Visa
 

  • Innovative Business Plan: Applicants must present an innovative business idea or demonstrate active operation of an existing startup.

  • Approval from UAE Authorities: Business must be approved by a UAE-based incubator, accelerator, or relevant government body.

  • Minimum Investment Requirements: Varies, but typically depends on business type and investment amount.
     

3. Freelance Visa
 

  • Professional Services: Suitable for individuals offering specialized skills (e.g., IT, media, consulting, design).

  • Freelance Permit: Issued by relevant free zone authorities and permits independent operation in approved sectors.


4. Freelance Visa

 

  • Investor Category: Minimum investment thresholds apply (e.g., real estate or business investment).

  • Entrepreneur Category: For founders of startups recognized by UAE-based accredited bodies.

  • Outstanding Talent: Special categories for researchers, innovators, and highly skilled professionals.

 

5. Company Formation Pathway
 

  • Mainland Company: Requires a local Emirati partner (typically 51% ownership).

  • Free Zone Company: 100% foreign ownership, offering tax incentives and simplified setup.

  • Offshore Company: Allows for international business operations without a physical presence.

Requirements

  • Business Plan: Detailed and comprehensive, outlining business goals, target market, financial projections, and economic contributions.
     

  • Proof of Funds: Documentation showing financial capability for business setup and operational expenses.
     

  • Health and Character: Must meet UAE’s health and character requirements, including medical exams and police clearance.
     

  • Local Sponsor (for Mainland Businesses): Emirati sponsor with 51% ownership for mainland business setups (not applicable in free zones).

Timeline and Process Overview

1. Initial Planning and Documentation (1-3 Months):
 

  • Develop a business plan or finalize investment.

  • Choose business structure (mainland, free zone, or offshore).

  • Register business with the relevant authority (DED for mainland, free zone authority for free zone companies).
     

2. Visa Application Preparation (1-2 Months):
 

  • Submit visa application with all required documentation (business plan, proof of funds, identification).
     

3. Business Setup and Residency Visa Issuance (1-4 Months):
 

  • Once approved, set up the business in Dubai, acquire commercial space if applicable, and activate your residency visa.

  • Visa durations typically range from 3 to 10 years (renewable).

Costs Breakdown

Visa Application Fees:

  • Varies based on visa type and duration; typically ranges between AED 4,000 - AED 7,000 (approx. $1,100 - $1,900 USD).
     

Company Setup Costs:

  • Mainland: Varies by sector and activity.

  • Free Zone: Typically starts at AED 15,000 (approx. $4,100 USD) for basic packages.

  • Offshore: Costs depend on registration and type of operation.
     

Additional Costs:

  • Real estate costs (for investor visas).

  • Licensing, legal fees, office space rental (if applicable).

Investment & Bank Statement Requirements

  • Proof of Legal Funds: Evidence of the source and legality of investment funds.

  • Bank Statements: Usually for the past six months, showing sufficient funds for business operation and personal maintenance.

Company Sustainability for Permanent Residency and Long-Term Visas

  • Business Operations: Demonstrate business activity, profitability, and compliance with UAE regulations (e.g., tax filing, licensing).

  • Employment Creation: Job creation for UAE residents can enhance eligibility for long-term visas.

Startup Business Support (Incubators/Accelerators)

  • Incubators and Government Initiatives: Dubai supports innovation and startups through hubs like Dubai Future Accelerators, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and more.

  • Funding Support: Access to venture capital, angel investors, and government grants for high-growth potential businesses.

Licenses and Self-Sponsorship Requirements

  • Freelance License: Issued by relevant free zones for independent professionals.

  • Trade License: Mandatory for business operations; requirements depend on the chosen business activity.

  • Self-Sponsorship: Entrepreneurs and investors can sponsor themselves through company ownership or by meeting specific residency requirements (e.g., under the Golden Visa).

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