What Are The Dubai Investor Visa Requirements?
Dubai is one of the great economic success stories of the 21st century. This dynamic, vibrant, and energetic city consistently demonstrates to overseas investors that it's an attractive place to live and work.
However, entry requirements for ex-pats who want to live in the Emirates must be handled carefully so that you comply with all current legislation. One of the easiest ways to get a visa to live and work in Dubai is to apply for a Dubai Investor Visa.
What is a Dubai Investor Visa?
This visa is for a specific category of entrants and is designed to make it easier for entrepreneurs and international investors to settle in Dubai. With such a buoyant economy, uptake is high. The visa is sometimes referred to as a Partner Visa, although there are subtle differences between the two.
An Investor Visa is more practical for anyone who wants to set up as a sole trader in Dubai, with only one owner and no partners or shareholders. Partner Visas are more suited for those who establish or invest in a company with more than one shareholder or owner.
Anyone starting a business or investing in an existing enterprise in Dubai or the free zones can apply. This means that the applicant cannot only live and work in Dubai but also bring their family and sponsor family members.
Why is Dubai offering these visas?
The aim is to attract the brightest and best entrepreneurs, those with the drive, determination, and desire to succeed.
How to Get an Investor Visa In Dubai UAE
To be eligible to apply for an Investor Visa, applicants must have shares in an existing company that's worth AED 10 million or establish a company in Dubai with a capital investment of the same amount. However, there are four different ways of qualifying for an Investor Visa, which allows more professionals to apply.
The main route - Property investment
Dubai is experiencing an explosion of growth, and the property market has never been more upbeat. Acquiring a property in Dubai may qualify you for an Investor Visa, and as a bonus, you get a residency visa as well. To qualify for a visa via the property investment route, the property needs to be valued at more than AED 1 million. There must also be a maximum mortgage value of 50%.
If the property is owned by more than one person, the minimum share for each owner should be not less than AED 1 million. Remember that this visa only applies to residential properties, not commercial ones, and the property must be freehold. It also does not apply to properties bought off-plan.
The next way is to invest in a company or business. This will allow you to apply for a 3-year Investor Visa in Dubai and Dubai’s free zones. Your initial capital investment needs to be in either capital or shares.
Thirdly, you can apply for a Golden Visa for either five or ten years. For a five-year visa, you need a minimum investment of AED 5 million, which is then invested into a property. The money can be financed from approved banks, and you must hold onto the property for a minimum of two years. You can also invest AED 500,000 in existing projects to be eligible for a five-year Investor Visa.
The requirements for a ten-year Golden Visa are the same, but the amounts are higher. Either property investment or business investment (through capital or shares) must be a minimum of AED 10 million.
What Are The Benefits of UAE Investor Visas?
If you opt for an Investor Visa with a property purchase of a value of more than AED 750,000, you are also eligible for a two-year property investor visa, which grants you a two-year residency permit. This can be renewed on a rolling basis. If you have a partner and a young family, this also entitles you to sponsor them, allowing them to live with you in the UAE.
They're ideal if you are investing in a business in the Dubai free zones, as you will also benefit from various tax incentives.
Required Documents To Apply for a Dubai Investor Visa
To apply for a Dubai investor visa, you must present some crucial documentation. For investors putting their money into a business venture, you'll need a copy of your passport, a copy of your Trade Licence for Dubai, bank statements, a contract of partnership between you and your sponsor, your Immigration Establishment Card, and a Memorandum of Association.
If you’re investing in property, you’ll need the title or deed, your passport and current visa as well as passport photos, a Good Conduct certificate, bank statements, health insurance, and a utility bill.
Dubai Investor Visa Costs
How much does all this cost? If you add everything together, including a medical examination, your UAE Emirates ID card, a Confirmation of Residency permit, DLD fees, and administrative charges, you'll pay AED 9,685 for a ten-year residency permit. If you want to sponsor your family, you'll need to add around AED 6,000 on top.
