The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step! This proverb best applies to entrepreneurs, individuals, and investors who wish to establish their business in the UAE.
Read this blog to understand in detail about the benefits, types, requirements, documentation, and process related to residence visa.
Back to topTypes of Residence Visa in the UAE?
Expats can choose from different types of residence visas offered in the UAE. Some of these include:
Types | Details | Validity |
Golden Visa or Long-Term Residence Visa | It allows foreign investors to stay, invest, and work in the UAE. It is most suitable for entrepreneurs, investors, and other specialised talents such as doctors, inventors, and scientists. | Valid for five or ten years and is renewable. |
Green Visa | This residence visa is most suitable for freelancers, self-employed, and skilled employees. | Valid for five years |
Investor Visa | An Investor Visa is for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to invest in the UAE. | Valid for three years |
Family Visa | This allows existing employees/employers staying in the UAE with a valid visa to sponsor residence visas for their family members. | Valid for one year |
Key Requirements for UAE Residency Visa
Investors should follow these criteria to apply for the UAE residency Visa:
- They must obtain project approval from the UAE government.
- The investor must provide proof of their income.
- The investor’s project must be approved by the local authorities depending on the region they choose to set up their business.
Perks of Having a UAE Residency Visa
The residency visa in UAE offers a wide range of benefits, as mentioned below:
- With a residency visa, investors can stay for a longer duration in the UAE with more stability and flexibility to conduct business activities.
- A residency visa will enable you to avail yourself of a wide range of local services. Some of these include opening a bank account and applying for a driving license.
- The visa allows for multiple entry and exit visas, providing great flexibility for travelling and establishing your business.
What are the Documents Required to Apply for a Residency Visa in UAE?
To apply for a UAE residency Visa, investors will need to submit the following documents:
- A copy of the company registration certificate.
- A copy of the bank statement.
- A copy of the property ownership document.
- Copies of the approval letters from all the relevant local authorities.
- Copies of passport, visa, and health insurance.
- A coloured passport-size photograph with a white background.
- A copy of the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) approval letter for the investment (only applicable in case of Green Visa).
What is the Process for Applying for a Residency Visa in UAE?
To obtain a UAE residency visa to start a business, consider following the below steps:
- Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your business objectives.
- Determine the business activity you want to conduct in the UAE.
- Select a legal structure that fits your specific business requirements.
- Finalise a unique trade name and get it registered with the relevant authority.
- Gather all your required documents and submit them to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).
- Rent an office space for your business, if required.
- Register your business by submitting the documents to the relevant authorities.
- Once the company registration is approved, obtain an establishment card and an entry permit to apply for initial approval for your residency visa.
- Undergo a medical check-up at a designated medical centre.
- Once you pass the medical examination, get your visa and apply for an Emirate ID, which will act as your official identification card in the UAE.
End Note
By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the process mentioned above, you can secure a residency visa in UAE. To find out more about this visa and understand about the process of business setup in UAE, you can connect with the Commitbiz team.
Back to topWhat is a residence visa in UAE?
A UAE residency visa is a license that permits foreigners to live in the UAE for a prolonged period.
Can I work in UAE without a residence visa?
Working without obtaining the proper visa status is illegal and can lead to imprisonment, fines and deportation.
How much does a UAE residency visa cost?
The cost of a UAE resident visa varies depending on your permit’s duration
When can one obtain a UAE resident visa?
After receiving the results of your medical tests, one can obtain a resident visa within 2-3 business days.
How much does a UAE residence visa cost for one year?
The UAE residence visa fee for a year is approximately around AED 1000.




