Dubai Investor Visa: Eligibility Criteria & Document Required
Dubai has become synonymous with innovation, luxury, and a booming business environment that attracts investors from around the world. For those looking to establish a business or invest in property in Dubai, the Dubai Investor Visa is a valuable opportunity. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Dubai while pursuing their business ventures or managing their property investments. Whether you want to invest in an existing company, setting up your own business, or exploring real estate opportunities with a booming property market (Dubai’s real estate market is expected to grow by over 6% between 2025 and 2027), the Investor Visa paves the way for residency and a bright future. However, understanding the process and requirements for Dubai investor visa is essential. So, let’s explore the various types of investor visas available and how you can make the most of this opportunity in Dubai. What is the Dubai Investor Visa? The Dubai Investor Visa, also known as the Partner Visa, is a residence permit for those who want to invest and live in Dubai. It allows you to not only reside but also work and sponsor your family members. Generally, there are two main ways to qualify for the Investor Visa: You can invest at least AED 10 million (around USD $2.7 million) in a new company or become a partner in an existing company with an investment of at least AED 10 million. You can purchase a property with the required minimum value. However, the property must be off-plan (under construction) and completed at the time of purchase. If you meet either of these requirements, you can obtain a visa that allows you to reside in Dubai for long term, typically renewable every three years. There’s also a new option called the Golden Visa, which offers a 10-year residency visa. Dubai Golden Visa The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency program. It grants residence privileges to talented individuals and professionals for up to ten years. This visa offers several benefits, including the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local company sponsor. For investors, there are a few options. One way is to invest a minimum of AED 2 million in an approved UAE investment fund. Another option involves investing in property with a minimum value of AED 2 million, but this property must be off-plan (under construction) and you must retain ownership for at least three years. Besides the extended residency period, the Dubai Golden Visa offers advantages like sponsoring family members for residency, greater freedom to move jobs within the UAE, and 100% foreign ownership of your business. Eligibility Criteria for the Dubai Investor Visa To apply for the Dubai investor visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. This generally includes: Setting up a new company in Dubai with a capital of at least AED 10 million. Becoming a partner in an existing company with a minimum shareholding worth AED 10 million. Purchasing a freehold property in Dubai with a minimum value of AED 2 million. Documents Required to Obtain Dubai Investor Visa The documents you need to obtain a Dubai Investor Visa will depend on whether you choose the route of business investment or property investment. However, here are the general requirements for obtaining an investor visa in Dubai: A copy of your valid passport Two recent passport-sized photographs Medical fitness certificate Proof of valid health insurance coverage A copy of your company’s trade license issued by DED Immigration establishment card (to confirm your company’s registration with the GDRFA) Proof of share ownership Bank statement Property valuation certificate Property ownership deed How to Obtain a Dubai Investor Visa? Obtaining an investor visa in Dubai involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown of the general process: 1. Define Your Investment Plan Decide whether you’ll invest in starting a new business or become a partner in an existing one. Alternatively, consider the Golden Visa route if you have a minimum of 2 million for investment in real estate or an approved investment fund. 2. Fulfill Investment Requirements For business investment, register your company with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and obtain a trade license. Contact experts at Shuraa Business Setup for all your company formation needs. 3. Apply for Entry Permit (if required) If you’re outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit online through the GDRFA website. 4. Investor Visa Application (In-person or online) Submit your application and documents for the Investor Visa to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) either in person or online through their designated channels. 5. Medical Examination Undergo a medical examination at an authorized health center in Dubai. This typically includes tests for communicable diseases like HIV and tuberculosis. 6. Visa Approval and Issuance Once your application is approved, you will receive an entry permit to enter the UAE. Upon arrival, you will need to complete the residency visa stamping process: Enter the UAE using the entry permit issued. Complete a medical test in Dubai. Apply for an Emirates ID. Get your residency visa stamped in your passport at the GDRFA. 7. Emirates ID Collection Collect your Emirates ID once it is ready. This is an essential document for legal residency in the UAE. 8. Renewal Ensure you renew your investor visa before it expires. The renewal process involves similar steps, including medical tests and paying the renewal fees. Consult with our experts at Shuraa for personalized guidance throughout the process. They can help with any specific requirements or complexities based on your situation. Cost for Investor Visa in Dubai The cost of a Dubai Investor Visa can vary depending on several factors, including: Type of investor visa (Golden Visa generally has higher costs) Investment approach Application method (Online or in-person) Here are the estimated costs: Visa Fees: AED 4,000 approx., the Golden Visa fees may differ Medical Test: Around AED 350 to AED 700 Emirates ID: AED 500 to AED 1,150 Entry Permit: AED 1,000 to AED 1,100 Change of Status