Business Residency
In Dubai, owning a business can be a pathway to obtaining a residence visa. To be eligible, the business must be active, not dormant, and the owner must be a registered shareholder or manager. Additionally, proof of financial capacity and business compliance is required.
Here’s a more detailed look at how business residency works in Dubai:
1. Business Ownership and Residency:
Investor Visa:
If you establish a company in Dubai (either in a free zone or on mainland), you can apply for an investor visa if you are a shareholder or manager.
Business Residence Visa:
You can also apply for a Business Residence Visa if you own a company in a free zone and own shares with a value of at least AED 50,000 (fully paid-in).
Golden Visa for Investors and Entrepreneurs:
Dubai offers Golden Visas for investors and entrepreneurs who open a business or invest in property, allowing for long-term residency (5-10 years) and the possibility of bringing family members.
2. Requirements for Business Residency:
Company Registration:
You must register your company with the relevant authorities (e.g., Department of Economic Development for mainland companies or the relevant free zone authority).
Shareholder/Manager Status:
You need to be officially listed as a shareholder or manager in the company's registration documents.
Financial Capacity:
You must demonstrate your financial capacity to support the business and yourself.
Business Compliance:
Your business must be compliant with all relevant regulations and laws.
3. Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs:
Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs:
If you are an entrepreneur with a successful project based on risk and innovation, you may be eligible for a Golden Visa for 5 years.
Approval Letters:
You'll need approval letters from an auditor, the emirate authorities, and an accredited business incubator.
4. Other Visa Options:
UAE Residence Visa for Doing Business:
The Green visa for investors is for those establishing or participating in commercial activities in the UAE.
Virtual Working Visa:
Dubai offers a one-year residency visa for individuals who work remotely for a non-UAE company.
5. Entry Permit and Emirates ID:
Once you have registered your company, you can apply for an entry permit and then for an Emirates ID.
6. Important Considerations:
Your company must be active, not dormant, for you to be eligible for residency.