Investor and Partner Visa in the UAE
The Investor/Partner Visa in the UAE allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE by investing in or starting a business in the country.
Investor and Partner Visa in the UAE
Investor and Partner Visas in the UAE provide residency to foreign nationals who start or hold shares in a business within the country. These visas, valid for 2 to 10 years, are available through both mainland companies and free zone entities. Holders can enjoy benefits like full business ownership, residency for family members, and the ability to live and work in the UAE. Major investors may also qualify for the Golden Visa, offering long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor.
Key Benefits of Holding an Investor or Partner Visa in the UAE:
Holding an Investor or Partner Visa in the UAE provides a wide range of advantages for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to establish themselves in the region. From long-term residency and 100% business ownership to family sponsorship and tax benefits, this visa offers a stable and business-friendly environment for both individuals and their families.
Investor/Partner Visa Cost Comparison Across UAE
The cost of obtaining an Investor or Partner Visa in the UAE mainland varies by emirate, depending on local government fees and service charges. Below is a comparison of estimated visa costs across different emirates, covering standard processing, medical testing, Emirates ID, and visa stamping (excluding business license setup and office rent).
Investor/Partner Visa Cost by Emirate (Mainland)
| Emirate | Approx. Cost (AED) | Visa Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 4,500 ā 6,000 | 2 years |
| Abu Dhabi | 3,500 ā 5,500 | 2 years |
| Sharjah | 3,000 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
| Ajman | 3,000 ā 4,000 | 2 years |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 3,000 ā 4,000 | 2 years |
| Fujairah | 3,000 ā 4,000 | 2 years |
| Umm Al Quwain | 3,000 ā 4,000 | 2 years |
Note: Costs include visa processing, medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping. Prices may vary slightly depending on service providers or if express/PRO services are used.
Investor/Partner Visa Cost in UAE Free Zones
Free zones across the UAE offer attractive visa packages for investors and business owners, often bundled with business setup services. The cost of a free zone investor or partner visa typically includes the entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. Below is a general cost comparison across major UAE free zones:
| Free Zone | Approx. Visa Cost (AED) | Visa Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) | 5,000 ā 6,500 | 2 years |
| IFZA (Dubai) | 3,750 ā 5,000 | 2 years |
| Shams (Sharjah Media City) | 3,500 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
| RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah) | 3,500 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
| Ajman Free Zone | 3,500 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
| Fujairah Creative City | 3,500 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
| UAQ Free Trade Zone | 3,500 ā 4,500 | 2 years |
Note:
- Visa costs may vary based on the free zone authority, package selected, and optional services.
- Many free zones offer visa-inclusive business setup packages that reduce overall costs.
- Additional charges may apply for express processing, PRO services, or premium medical centers.
Important Notes on Investor/Partner Visas in the UAE
- Validity: Typically 2ā3 years, depending on the issuing authority.
- Medical Test: Mandatory fitness test required for visa approval.
- Residency Rule: Must enter the UAE at least once every 180 days.
- No Employment: Visa does not permit salaried jobs in other companies.
- Family Sponsorship: You can sponsor spouse, children, and parents.
- License Dependency: Visa is linked to your business licenseāif itās cancelled, so is your visa.
- Office Requirement: Valid business address or flexi-desk is needed.
- Cost Variations: Fees may vary by emirate and free zone.
- Golden Visa: Eligible investors can apply for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Want to Apply For a UAE Investor or Partner Visa?
Applying for a UAE visa opens doors to endless opportunities ā and with Brightlink Consulting, the process is simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Comprehensive Guide to Investor and Partner Visa in the UAE:
The UAE offers a strategic location, a thriving economy, and a tax-friendly environment, making it one of the most attractive destinations for global investors and entrepreneurs. An Investor or Partner Visa allows foreign nationals to legally live, work, and operate a business in the UAE.
What is an Investor/Partner Visa?
An Investor Visa is issued to individuals who start their own business in the UAE, while a Partner Visa is for those who invest as shareholders in an existing business. These visas grant residency rights and are renewable every 2ā3 years. High-value investors may also qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Types of Investor/Partner Visas in the UAE
| Type | Issued By | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland Investor Visa | Department of Economic Development (DED) | 2 years |
| Free Zone Investor Visa | Free Zone Authorities (e.g., DMCC, RAKEZ, IFZA) | 2ā3 years |
| Golden Visa | ICP or Dubai Land Department (DLD) | 10 years |
Eligibility Criteria:
- Own or invest in a UAE-based company
- Have a valid trade license
- Possess proof of shareholding or capital contribution
- Meet the minimum investment threshold (varies by authority)
- Pass a medical fitness test
Required Documents:
For Mainland Visa:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Trade License (DED)
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Partners list from Dubai Economy
- Establishment card
- Ejari (office lease)
- Medical test & Emirates ID
For Free Zone Visa:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Trade License (Free Zone)
- Share Certificate
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Establishment card
- Flexi-desk or office lease
- Medical test & Emirates ID
Cost Comparison:
Mainland Visa Cost (Approximate):
- Dubai: AED 4,500 ā 6,000
- Abu Dhabi: AED 3,500 ā 5,500
- Sharjah & Other Emirates: AED 3,000 ā 4,500
Free Zone Visa Cost (Approximate):
- DMCC (Dubai): AED 5,000 ā 6,500
- IFZA, SHAMS, RAKEZ: AED 3,500 ā 5,000
Key Benefits:
- Long-term residency in the UAE
- 100% foreign ownership (in free zones and many mainland activities)
- Sponsor family members and domestic workers
- Open business and personal bank accounts
- No personal income tax
- Eligibility for UAE Golden Visa (for high-level investors)
Application Process Overview:
- Set up the company (mainland or free zone)
- Apply for the establishment card (immigration file)
- Apply for an entry permit (if outside the UAE)
- Complete medical test and Emirates ID process
- Visa stamping on passport
Golden Visa for Investors (Optional Upgrade):
- Investment of AED 2 million+ in property or business
- No local sponsor required
- 10-year renewable visa
- Sponsor family and unlimited domestic workers
Conclusion:
Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding a company, or looking for a residency option tied to business ownership, the UAEās Investor and Partner Visas offer a streamlined, business-friendly path to residency. With several setup options across mainland and free zones, you can tailor your business entry strategy based on your budget, sector, and long-term goals.
Start Your Business Journey in the UAE with an Investor or Partner Visa
Looking to launch or invest in a business in the UAE? Our Investor and Partner Visa services provide you with a seamless path to UAE residency, 100% business ownership, and access to a thriving, tax-efficient market. Whether youāre setting up in the mainland or a free zone, we handle the entire processāfrom company registration to visa stampingāso you can focus on growing your business.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert guidance through every step of the visa process
- Mainland and Free Zone options tailored to your needs
- Transparent pricing and fast turnaround
- Assistance with family sponsorship, banking, and more
Letās build your future in the UAEāsecure your investor visa today.
Frequently Asked Questions: Investor or Partner Visa in UAE
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