UAE Investor Visa: Benefits, Documents Required, & Procedure

The UAE Investor Visa is an attractive opportunity for global entrepreneurs and investors, especially those looking to establish or expand their businesses in Dubai's thriving economy. It is known for its business-friendly environment, strategic location, and tax exemptions. It is one of the UAE visa types that offers a multi-benefit investor visa that grants residency while opening doors to real estate investments, new ventures, and business growth. With options for 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year visas, international business aspirants and entrepreneurs can use the UAE's modern infrastructure, high standard of living, and innovation-driven market to build successful enterprises in one of the world's most dynamic regions. This article provides more information regarding the investor visa, its types, and the procedure. 

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What is an Investor Visa in UAE?

The UAE Investor Visa allows foreign nationals to start or invest in a business in Dubai. It grants the right to live, work, and conduct business in the Emirate and the option to sponsor family members. Entrepreneurs prefer this visa for its streamlined access to Dubai's business landscape and residency benefits.

Benefits of Obtaining an Investor Visa in UAE

The following are the benefits of obtaining an investor visa in UAE, 

• Residency Security: A UAE Investor visa ensures a long-term stay in the UAE, with options for visa extensions through the governing council.
• Family Sponsorship: It allows investors to sponsor immediate family members, including parents, spouses, and children, for residency in the UAE.
• Seamless Travel: It facilitates unrestricted travel within all Emirates and simplifies visa processes for other GCC regions.
• Pathway to Golden Visa: UAE investor visas enable Indian entrepreneurs and other investors to apply for the prestigious UAE Golden Visa, offering extensive personal and business benefits.
• Tax Advantages: It enjoys zero personal income tax and attractive business tax policies, making the UAE an appealing location for investment.
• Access to Financial Services: It brings opportunities to open bank accounts, obtain credit, and access other financial services typically reserved for UAE residents.
• Enhanced Business Opportunities: You can participate in UAE government projects and contracts that require residency, expanding your business potential.

Types of Investor Visa in UAE

Each type of investor visa in the UAE offers distinct benefits and eligibility criteria, allowing investors to select a visa that best suits their investment goals and duration of stay

1. 2-Year Investor Visa

This visa allows foreign nationals to reside and work in Dubai for two years, renewable for an additional two years if the investor maintains their investment. An investment between AED 12,500 and AED 25,500* in a Dubai-based business is required to qualify. This visa is ideal for investors looking for a shorter commitment or assessing Dubai's business landscape before making a long-term investment.

2. 10-Year Investor Visa (Golden Visa)

The 10-year Investor Visa, often called the Golden Visa, is designed for those making substantial investments in the UAE. To qualify, an investor must:

• Invest at least AED 2 million in the public sector, or
• Hold a minimum of AED 10 million in shares of a UAE company. Additionally, the investment must not be loaned and should be maintained for at least three years. This visa is also open to individuals with specialised talent in science, healthcare, and technology, making it a versatile option for investors and highly skilled professionals.

3. 5-Year Investor Visa

This visa is available to UAE real estate investors with a minimum of AED 2 million. Like the 10-year visa, the investment should not be funded through loans and must be held for at least three years. The 5-year Investor Visa is well-suited for real estate investors seeking medium-term residency and investment stability in Dubai.

Eligibility Criteria to Obtain a UAE Investor Visa

To apply for a UAE Investor Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Investment Requirement:
• Invest at least AED 2 million in an existing company's shares or
• Establish a new company in Dubai with a minimum capital investment of AED 2 million.
• Documentary Proof: Applicants must provide documents demonstrating their qualifying investment in Dubai. This includes proof of the investment, such as company share certificates or a trade license for a newly established business.
• Medical Test and Police Clearance: A medical test report and a police clearance certificate may also be required to ensure the applicant meets health and legal standards.

Documents Required for UAE Investor Visa

Here are the Documents required to obtain a UAE Investor Visa, 

• Passport Copy: A necessary number of passport copies for those who intend to apply for a UAE investor visa.
• Personal Photograph: Must meet UAE government standards (size, background colour, etc.).
• Memorandum of Association (MoA): Legally attested, required for partnerships.
• Trade License: Valid and up-to-date trading license.
• Immigration Establishment Card: Proof of business establishment registration.
• Bank Statements: Last three months' statements to verify financial stability.
• Partnership or Service Agent Contract: Partnership contract for partnerships or Local Service Agent Agreement for sole proprietorships.
• Cancellation Document of Existing Visa: If holding a previous UAE visa.
• Copy of Visit or Tourist Visa: Applicants currently in the UAE under a different visa.

Procedure to Get an Investor Visa in UAE

The process to obtain a UAE Investor Visa involves several key steps. Here's a straightforward breakdown:

Step 1: Submit an Application

Begin by submitting your investor visa application at a local typing centre. Ensure that all details are accurate and that you have the necessary documentation. If you're applying for a partner visa, the applicant must own at least 25% of the business. Once the application is typed correctly, the immigration authorities will review it. If approved, you'll receive confirmation via email.

Step 2: Complete the Change Status Request

After your application is approved, proceed with the change of status request. Await approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) via email. Once approved, visit an authorised typing centre to complete the final processing. For ease, you can also consult visa professionals for assistance.

Step 3: Medical Examination

You must undergo a mandatory medical examination as part of the visa process. Complete the medical typing process, then visit an authorised medical centre for the exam. Your results will be processed promptly, and there's no need for concern during this stage.

Step 4: Emirates ID Typing

After the medical exam, proceed with the Emirates ID typing process. Your Emirates ID is essential for residing in the UAE. Depending on your application type, fingerprint authorisation may be required. This step is crucial as your investor visa is linked to your valid Emirates ID.

Step 5: Visa Stamping

Once all steps are completed, visit an authorised location to stamp your investor visa. After approval from the Immigration Department, you will receive an SMS notification with either approval or rejection. To collect your original passport, you must provide the airway bill number to Zajel.

Cost for UAE Investor Visa

The process of obtaining an Investor Visa in the UAE involves multiple stages, each with associated costs. These include fees for the entry permit, change of status request, and visa stamping. In addition, there are expenses for essential components like the medical examination, Emirates ID, and immigration card. The total cost of the investor visa will vary depending on the visa duration, whether it's a 2-year, 5-year, or 10-year visa. By working with experienced professionals, applicants can ensure they pay only for the necessary services, avoiding unnecessary charges throughout the application process.

Validity and Renewal of Investor Visa in UAE

The validity of an Investor Visa in the UAE varies based on the type of visa. The visa is typically valid for 3 to 5 years for property investors, while the standard investor or partner visa is for 2 years. The Golden Visa, granted to high-value investors, is valid for 10 years. It is essential to renew the investor visa before it expires to ensure continuous residency and maintain its benefits. Regular renewal is essential for extending the validity and staying compliant with UAE regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UAE Investor Visa offers a highly attractive pathway for global investors and entrepreneurs to capitalise on Dubai's dynamic business environment. With various UAE visa options tailored to different investment needs and durations, this visa ensures long-term residency, tax advantages, and access to various business opportunities. Investors can navigate the process seamlessly by understanding the required documents, eligibility criteria, and application procedure. 

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