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The UAE has become one of the most popular destinations for doing business. Opportunities exist across the vibrant nation, with Dubai being the top city to look for. Due to its tax-friendly laws, startup-friendly environment and strategic location, many entrepreneurs want to obtain a Dubai business visa and start a business in Dubai. According to GDRFA, Dubai witnessed a 52% increase in golden visa issues in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. If you want to start or expand your business in Dubai, you are at the right place.
This blog will provide all the necessary details about the types of business visas in Dubai, the requirements for acquiring them, the application process, and the costs involved.
A UAE business visa is a special permit that allows expatriates and foreign entrepreneurs in the UAE to enter and stay in the country to conduct business activities. It is part of the UAE’s “Golden Visa” program, which offers long-term visas to applicants and their dependents. The UAE government offers different types of business visas depending on the nature of the business activity and the duration of the visit.
If you wish to engage in business activities in Dubai, you must hold a Dubai business visa. Visa requirements for entering and staying in Dubai depend upon the individual’s nationality.
A business visa in Dubai offers several advantages to its holders.
Benefits of holding a Dubai business visa include:
The eligibility criteria for a Dubai business visa that the applicants should meet include:
It is important to note that even after meeting the above conditions, the applicants must also get their Dubai business visa application, other legal documents, and business plan reviewed and approved by government officials. After a detailed assessment and approval by a special committee, Dubai business visa will be successfully granted to them.
The UAE government offers different types of business visas. Each visa caters to the specific needs of individuals and investors. You may apply for the one that meets your needs and for which you are eligible.
Broadly, the following are the types of Dubai business visa:
This type of Dubai business visa is ideal for those who want to make short trips to Dubai. This visa allows them to attend business meetings and conferences, explore investment opportunities, and take short-term business trips. UAE offers visas upon arrival for visitors from more than 80 nations.
Visit visas can be of two types:
This visa is ideal for those who want to relocate to the UAE. To be eligible, applicants must own a business in Dubai, have a successful paid job in a UAE-based company, or have proven entrepreneurial experience. Depending on the visa chosen, it can be valid for 2, 5, or even up to 10 years.
Residence visa can be of 2 types:
It is important to know that an applicant must first acquire an electronic entry permit to obtain any residence visa. This permit can be valid for 1 to 6 months. During this period, the applicant must pass medical tests, submit their applications for residency permits, and provide biometrics.
The following requirements mandated by The ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) must be met to be eligible for a Dubai Business Visa:
Additional documents may be needed depending on the visa type you apply for. Contact our experts at DUBIZ for more details.
You can apply online for a business visa to Dubai on GDRFAD, the ICP Portal, or at a UAE Embassy/Consulate.
The following general steps can be followed to acquire a Dubai business visa:
Choose the appropriate visa, which can be a visit or residence visa, that best suits your needs.
Ensure all the documents are current and meet specific requirements outlined by Dubai authorities. For a residency visa, you must first obtain an entry permit. During this period, the applicant must pass medical tests, submit their applications for residency permits and provide biometrics. In case of a sponsored visa, certain steps need to be followed, including obtaining the required permissions and licenses, registering a company, securing an office space, and signing a contract with a service agent if necessary.
Fill out the application form accurately and completely. Dubai has made it easier to apply for visas by introducing online platforms.
The documentation required will vary depending on the specific visa you are applying for. General documents include the application form duly filed, passport-size photographs, a valid passport, a bank statement, health insurance, a travel itinerary, the purpose of the visit, etc. Make sure to upload all the required documents in the correct format, including proof of eligibility.
Next, pay the visa fee to submit your Dubai business visa application successfully. Visa fees vary based on the type and duration of the visa.
Once the application is submitted, it goes through a detailed scrutiny by the relevant authorities. Processing time can take several days to weeks, depending on the visa you are applying for. For example, some residency visas require you to take medical tests, etc. This can affect the time you wait for your visa to be processed. You can reapply again after 90 days if your application is not approved.
Following are the average costs for a Dubai business visa depending on its type:
It should be noted that the costs are subject to changes in government regulations, your personal needs and the visa selected. Also, additional medical tests, Emirates ID, and biometrics costs may arise. Please get in touch with our experts at DUBIZ for further assistance.
Generally, the Dubai visa application process can take up to 2 months (60 days). The initial Dubai business visa application and its review can take around 30 days, after which applicants are given 30 days to fulfil the requirements of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security, such as submitting their documents and getting their medical assessments done.
Getting a Dubai business visa unlocks an ocean of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. While it might seem daunting, the process is simple if you diligently follow the steps and requirements. At DUBIZ, we handle your entire application process, ensuring you receive your visa promptly. Let our experts take care of everything so you can relax and avoid the hassle of dealing with paperwork and government offices.
Contact DUBIZ today at +971 562986853 or WhatsApp us at +971 569973630. You can also drop an email at info@dubiz.co for any inquiries.
The Dubai business visa offers different durations, ranging from 30 to 60 days for single-entry visas. Additionally, there is a long-term multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years. For residence visas, the validity can be 2, 3, 5, or even up to 10 years.
The processing time for a UAE business visa varies. For example, the 5-year multiple entry visa can be processed within 48 hours, whereas the Golden visa typically requires 30 days for processing.
The duration will depend on the purpose of travel and validity of the visa. The validity can be of a few days to several months.
Yes, you can sponsor your dependents with a Dubai business visa by following the rules set by the ICA for sponsoring families in the UAE. To apply, you must show proof of relationship (like a marriage or birth certificate) when submitting the application form to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Your dependents can include:
Yes, you can apply for a business visa in any of the seven Emirates, which include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al-Khaimah. The application process for a Business Visa remains consistent across all Emirates.