How to Obtain a Residence Visa in the UAE Through Starting a Business?

Obtaining a UAE Residence Visa Through Business

According to the latest international rankings, the United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading hubs for business and investment. Government programs focused on attracting foreign capital are driving sustained improvements in living standards. In recent years, the country has made significant progress: digitalization of public services, infrastructure development, healthcare modernization, educational quality improvements, and the creation of a favorable business environment. These measures not only enhance the daily lives of residents but also make the UAE especially attractive to international entrepreneurs.

It is no surprise that more and more people are considering the UAE as a new place to live and work. The country currently offers residence options in the form of residency and golden visas, valid for 2 to 10 years. The eligibility requirements vary, as the country is keen on attracting both investors and skilled professionals. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at how to obtain residency in Dubai by starting a business, and briefly explore alternative options.

Benefits of a UAE Residence Visa When Starting a Business

Obtaining a residence visa in the UAE offers a wide range of advantages for entrepreneurs and investors:

•  – Low taxes: There is no personal income tax in the UAE. Corporate tax (introduced in 2023) is set at just 9% and applies only to profits exceeding AED 375,000. There are also no taxes on dividends or capital gains.
•  – Full business ownership: Foreign entrepreneurs can fully own companies registered in Free Economic Zones without the need for a local sponsor.
•  – Simplified international trade: Residency status allows you to open a bank account in the UAE and conduct international transactions with minimal barriers. The UAE’s strategic location makes it an ideal logistics hub.
• – Favorable banking conditions: Residency greatly simplifies account opening for both individuals and companies. UAE banks offer attractive conditions for residents, including low fees and access to international transfers.
•  – Investment appeal: Companies in the UAE enjoy the trust of foreign investors thanks to a stable economy and transparent legal system.
•  – Flexible immigration solutions: Business owners can obtain residence visas for employees and their families, and easily hire foreign specialists.
•  – Advanced infrastructure: The country boasts top-tier transport, digital, and logistics infrastructure, which is crucial for businesses in trade, technology, and finance.
•  – SME support programs: The government offers subsidies, grants, and opportunities to participate in state-funded tenders and projects.
•  – High quality of life: Business owners and their families gain access to top-level healthcare, education, and personal safety. Living in the UAE also enhances personal and professional status.
•  – Simplified travel: UAE residents enjoy visa-free or simplified access to a number of countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
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The UAE is a business platform that offers a unique combination of benefits, stability, and growth potential. A residence visa not only allows you to start a business but also live in a country with an attractive tax system.

Requirements for Obtaining a Residence Visa for Entrepreneurs

In most cases, obtaining a residence visa through business requires investing from $545,500 into a company or acquiring an equivalent stake. However, for tech startups, more flexible conditions apply — from $136,000. This is part of the UAE’s strategy to attract talent and innovation.

Summary Table of Business Visa Requirements:

How to Get a Residence Visa in the UAE Through Business Investment

Obtaining a UAE residence visa by setting up a company is one of the most popular paths to legal residency for foreign entrepreneurs. The process includes several mandatory steps and requirements.

Main Steps for Obtaining a Business Residence Visa:

1.  – Company registration. Choose the structure (Free Zone or Mainland) and complete legal setup.
2.  – Office or coworking rental. Required for licensing.
3.  – Bank account opening. Corporate and/or personal.
4.  – Capital contribution. Some zones require a minimum capital investment.
5.  – Medical examination and biometrics. A mandatory procedure for visa issuance.
6.  – Document collection and submission. Includes legalization and notarization of all necessary paperwork.
7.  – Application submission to GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).
8.  – Payment of government fees.
9.  – Receiving the Emirates ID — the resident identification card.

Who Can Apply for a Business Visa in the UAE?

Almost any foreign national over the age of 18 can apply for a residence visa, provided they meet the following criteria:

•  – Age 18 or older;
•  – Proof of stable legal income;
•  – No criminal record;
•  – Passing a medical exam ruling out contagious diseases (HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, etc.).
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Required Documents:

•  – Copy of a valid passport;
•  – Medical examination certificate;
•  – Color photographs (3×4 cm, white background);
•  – Health insurance policy;
•  – Certificate of company registration;
•  – Business license;
•  – Company immigration card;
•  – Bank statement confirming capital deposit;
•  – Auditor’s report.

Note: The exact list of documents may vary depending on the jurisdiction and company type. It is strongly recommended to consult with experts in advance.

Document Submission and Registration

Applying for a residence visa through business involves submitting documents to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). This can be done in several ways:

•  – Through the official GDRFA online platform;
•  – At Tasheel or Amer service centers, where assistance is provided;
•  – Through a PRO agent — a company representative authorized to file on behalf of the applicant.

Key Points to Keep in Mind When Submitting Documents:

•  – Relevance and accuracy of documentation. All documents (passports, incorporation papers, certificates) must be valid and notarized if required.
•  – Accuracy of form completion. Mistakes or typos can delay the process or result in rejection.
•  – Passport validity. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of application.
•  – Medical exam results. Must be entered into the GDRFA electronic database.
•  – Company’s electronic registration. Ensure that the legal entity is registered in the GDRFA system.
•  – Payment of government fees. Fees can be paid in advance via the platform or at the designated center.

How to Obtain an Emirates ID?

After submitting a visa application, the process of obtaining an Emirates ID is initiated automatically. You can check the application status on the official ICP website — the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.

If you haven’t previously completed biometric registration, you’ll need to:

•  – Visit the nearest ICP center to submit your fingerprints and take a photograph.
•  – Typically, the Emirates ID fee is paid along with the visa application, so no separate payment is required.

Once all steps are completed, you just need to wait for the card to be issued. The Emirates ID status can be tracked on the ICP website, and you’ll receive an SMS notification once the process is finalized.

You can receive the card:

•  – Via courier delivery to your specified address;
•  – Or in person at the nearest ICP service center.

Processing time is typically between 5 to 10 business days.

What Is Considered a Business Investment for Obtaining a UAE Residence Visa?

Business investment is one of the key ways to obtain a UAE residence visa. However, “investment” refers not only to direct financial contributions but also to a wide range of expenses associated with establishing and running a company. Here are the main elements typically considered as investments:

1. Share Capital

This is the amount officially declared in the company’s incorporation documents. In some free zones, the minimum required capital may be symbolic (e.g., AED 10,000). However, in other jurisdictions, the capital must be actually deposited into the company’s bank account and properly documented.

2. Operating Expenses

Investments also include regular expenses required to run the business:

•  – renting office or co-working space;
•  – purchasing equipment, technology, furniture, and other assets;
•  – paying for services such as internet, accounting, marketing, etc.

3. Government and Registration Fees

Every entrepreneur is required to pay:

•  – licensing fees;
•  – company registration fees;
•  – visa and permit application fees;
•  – fees for PRO agent services, notarization, and translations.

4. Investment in an Existing Company

If a resident acquires a stake in an already operating UAE business, such a capital contribution is also considered an investment. It is essential that the transaction is officially documented and confirmed by an auditor or registration agent.

5. Job Creation

This is especially relevant for companies registered in the Mainland. Expenses related to hiring employees, issuing work visas, and paying salaries also count as investments.

6. Other Business Expenses

These may include:

•  – purchase of raw materials or goods;
•  – software development;
•  – marketing campaigns;
•  – business consulting, and more.

Important: Investment isn’t just the total amount of expenses incurred. To obtain a residence visa, the business must be economically meaningful and bring real value to the UAE economy. Therefore, it is highly recommended to conduct an independent business valuation and work with licensed company formation agents.

Other Ways to Obtain a UAE Residence Visa

Clearly, not every foreign national can immediately invest a large sum into a business. Nevertheless, Dubai and other Emirates offer several alternative paths to obtaining a residence visa — especially for talented and highly skilled individuals. Government programs aim to attract:

•  – students enrolled in UAE universities;
•  – professionals in rare and in-demand fields;
•  – scientists, inventors, and distinguished artists;
•  – freelancers, particularly in the IT sector;
•  – financially secure retirees.

Below is a brief overview of the requirements for each category.

1. Student Visa in the UAE

To obtain a student visa, you must be admitted to an accredited university or college in the UAE. The educational institution usually acts as the visa sponsor, although in some cases a resident parent can serve as the sponsor.

Key requirements:

•  – 18 years of age or older;
•  – medical examination;
•  – proof of financial capacity (tuition + living expenses).

Visa duration:
1 year, with the possibility of renewal for the entire study period. Top-performing students may qualify for long-term visas based on academic excellence.

Required documents:

•  – passport;
•  – photos;
•  – letter of admission;
•  – tuition payment receipt;
•  – medical exam results;
•  – proof of residence.

The application is usually submitted by the university via the GDRFA system. Once approved, the student completes biometric registration and receives a visa sticker in their passport. This visa allows living in the UAE, studying, and working part-time.

2. Residence Visa for Professionals in Specialized Fields

Highly skilled professionals are a priority category under the UAE immigration policy. The following experts may qualify for a residence visa:

•  – doctors;
•  – engineers;
•  – scientists;
•  – artists and cultural figures;
•  – teachers and other top-level specialists.

Requirements:

•  – verified qualifications and experience;
•  – accreditation by a relevant authority (e.g., Ministry of Culture or UAE Scientific Council);
•  – a local sponsor (employer or business partner);
•  – valid employment contract;
•  – financial solvency and medical insurance.

Visa options:

• Employment visa — requires a sponsor;
• Green visa — for self-employed and freelancers, valid for up to 5 years without a sponsor;
• Golden visa — for exceptional professionals, valid for 10 years and includes the ability to sponsor family members and household staff.

3. UAE Residence Visa for Retirees

Foreign nationals aged 55 and above may apply for the special Retire in Dubai program, which offers a 5-year residence visa with the option to renew.

Eligibility requirements:

•  – age 55 or older;
•  – at least 15 years of work experience;
•  – meeting at least one of the following financial criteria:
•  – owning property in Dubai worth at least $275,000;
•  –  having bank savings of at least $275,000;
•  – receiving a stable monthly income of at least $4,200 (from pension or investments).

Application process:

The application is submitted via GDRFA along with documents proving identity, retirement status, and financial capacity.

This program is ideal for retirees who wish to enjoy their retirement years in a country with a high quality of life, modern healthcare, urban safety, and economic stability. Moreover, retirees contribute to the local economy through investment, housing, and services.

How to Simplify Obtaining a UAE Residence Visa Through Business

This article has detailed one of the most popular ways to get a residence visa in the UAE — through starting a business. However, it’s important to remember that while the process may seem simple, it requires careful preparation and professional support.

Why involve professionals:

•  – to navigate jurisdictional differences (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore);
•  – to select the correct license type and business activity;
•  – to understand local laws and business practices;
•  – all documents must be prepared in Arabic and English, including legal and accounting paperwork;
•  – mistakes in the process can delay or jeopardize the approval of your residence visa.

Therefore, when planning a move and business setup in the UAE, it is highly recommended to seek help from legal advisors, tax consultants, and accredited company formation agents.