How to Get a Business Visa in Dubai?

Without a doubt, Dubai is a well-known thriving hub for business innovation and investment. If you are aiming to start your business in Dubai, securing the appropriate business visa is of utmost importance for residency.

Continue reading if you want to know more about how to get a business visa in Dubai as in this article we’ll be providing a comprehensive overview of the types of business visas available and the step-by-step process to obtain one.

What is a Business Visa and Why is it so Important?

A business visa is basically a legal document that grants permission to foreign nationals to enter and reside in a country for business-related activities like setting up their company, managing business operations, attending meetings, or investing in local enterprises. Just like a general trading license in Dubai or any business license that is required for starting a business as a foreigner, obtaining a business visa too, is of utmost importance as it enables entrepreneurs and investors to legally conduct their business activities, gain residency status, and enjoy the benefits of Dubai’s strong economic environment.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Business Visa

To qualify for obtaining a business visa in Dubai, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: Must be over 18 years
2. Passport: Valid passport with a minimum of six months of validity remaining
3. Flights: Confirmed return ticket or itinerary showing departure plans
4. Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient financial means, such as bank statements or a sponsor’s letter
5. Accommodation: Proof of accommodation, like hotel bookings or a host’s letter
6. Qualifications: Educational certificates or relevant professional qualifications
7. Clear Criminal Background: Evidence of a clean criminal record
8. Business Documents: Business registration certificate and trade license, if applicable
9. Health Insurance: Valid health insurance that covers the stay duration
10. Residence Permit: If already residing in the UAE, a copy of the residence permit

Please note that the eligibility criteria may vary depending on the type of business visa you wish to obtain.

Types of UAE Business Visas

Dubai offers various business visas tailored to different needs and durations.

1. Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is designed for high-net-worth investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and other relevant categories. It offers long-term residency for 5 or 10 years, and this is renewable. You can be eligible as the owner of a company with a capital of a minimum of AED 2 million. Another interesting part of this is that even shareholders/partners with a minimum share of AED 2 million can also be considered eligible for a UAE Golden Visa.

For other categories like scientists or artists, evidence of outstanding achievements in their fields is required. This visa provides stability by allowing holders to live, work, and study in the UAE without depending on a specific employer or sponsor, and it includes family members. Applications are submitted online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

2. Investor Visa

The Investor Visa is suitable for those planning to establish and run a business in Dubai. It typically lasts for 2 years and is renewable. Applications for this type of visa can be made through a local sponsor or directly through a free zone authority, depending on the nature of the investment.

3. Green Visa

The green visa is the ideal type of visa aimed at high-skilled professionals and self-employed individuals seeking to live and work in the UAE. The green visa offers more flexible and extended residence options compared to traditional work visas. If you’re a self-employed applicant, you must first secure a self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization, and hold at least a bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent degree. The Green Visa allows the holder to sponsor themselves for a stay of up to 5 years without needing a UAE national or employer as a sponsor.

4. Short-Term Visit Visa for Business

This visa is perfect for business meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities. It is valid for around 30 days and can be extended. Applicants need an invitation from a UAE-based company or registration for a business event in Dubai, along with evidence of business activities. The application process is simple as well, including an online application, and document submission, followed by the fee payment.

5. Mission Visa

The Mission Visa is designed for temporary work assignments or projects in the UAE, valid for up to 6 months. This visa is suitable for individuals coming to the UAE for a specific short-term project. Applicants need an employment contract or official letter detailing the project and sponsorship from a UAE-based company. The sponsor initiates the application process, handles document submission, and completes visa processing.

6. Freelance Visa

This visa is for independent professionals in fields like media, tech, education, and art. The duration varies and is often linked to the freelance permit from free zones. Applicants need to show proof of expertise and experience in their field, a portfolio of past work, or a history of contracts and client testimonials. The application process involves obtaining a freelance permit from a UAE free zone, submitting an online visa application through the free zone authority, and providing the necessary documents.

You may also want to check out: How to obtain an e-commerce license in Dubai.

Dubai Business Visa: Documents Required

To apply for any business visa in Dubai, you will need the following documents:

1. Duly filled UAE visa application form.
2. Valid passport copy, valid for at least 6 months.
3. Passport photograph against a white background (2 recent).
4. A copy of the residence permit (if you are already living in the UAE) is required.

Additional documents may be asked as per the situation.

By understanding the types of business visas available and following the application process carefully, you can successfully secure a visa to ensure a smooth business set-up in Dubai, benefitting from the vibrant economic opportunities of the UAE.

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for legal assistance and consultancy in the process of securing your business visa in Dubai, InZone would be the ideal place. Our business set-up consultants and legal experts can guide you in obtaining your business visa in Dubai in a hassle-free and smooth manner.