The Partner Visa in Dubai is the gateway for foreign entrepreneurs and investors seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s thriving business landscape. This visa is an outstanding opportunity for individuals to establish or expand their business ventures in this Emirate and beyond.
Let’s jump right in. Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:
- What is a partner visa in Dubai?
- Requirements for obtaining a partner visa in Dubai
- The application process for a partner visa – step-by-step process
- How much is the partner visa in Dubai?
- Dubai and UAE partner visa rules
- Frequently asked questions about partner visa in Dubai
- A complex visa application process made easy
What is a partner visa in Dubai?
A partner visa is granted to foreign nationals who own a company, hold shares in an existing business, or are expatriates who wish to establish a business in the United Arab Emirates. It is a residency visa designed to foster international collaboration and encourage foreign investment. Additionally, the holder is entitled to live and work in UAE legally and sponsor their family members’ visas. The visa is valid for three years and can be renewed.
Under this visa category, foreign entrepreneurs can partner with a local Emirati sponsor, who must hold a majority share in the company. This partnership is a foundation for the visa application and allows the foreign partner to legally work and reside in Dubai.
The partner visa enables entrepreneurs to expand their businesses or launch new ventures in Dubai, leveraging the city’s favourable economic climate, strategic location, and global connectivity. Moreover, Dubai provides immense opportunities for growth and profitability for foreign nationals investing in the Emirate.
Requirements for obtaining a partner visa in Dubai
Obtaining a partner visa in Dubai is a multi-step process that requires fulfilling specific requirements set by the Dubai government. Below are the key criteria for obtaining a partner visa in Dubai:
Partnership Agreement:
A valid partnership agreement is essential. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership between the foreign national and the local Emirati sponsor. It must be signed and attested by all parties involved.
Minimum Capital Investment:
One of the major requirements for a partner visa in Dubai is for the foreign national to own shares in a company (whether newly established or existing) or invest in a company in Dubai. A foreign national can also start a business, too. The minimum investment is AED 72,000 for a partner visa.
Local Sponsorship:
As a foreign national, you must secure a local Emirati sponsor or partner who holds the company’s majority share (51%). The sponsor will act as a local representative and support the visa application process. Choosing a trustworthy and reliable sponsor who understands the local business landscape and complies with all legal obligations is essential.
Business Licensing:
The company where the foreign national seeks partnership must be legally registered in Dubai and carry a valid trade license.
Proof of Financial Capability:
You must provide evidence of financial capability, such as bank statements, financial records, or audited financial reports. This demonstrates your ability to support yourself and the business during your stay in Dubai.
Valid Passport and Photographs:
A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and recent passport-sized photographs are required for the visa application.
Health Insurance:
Dubai requires all residents, including Partner Visa holders, to have valid health insurance coverage.
The application process for a partner visa – step-by-step process
Applying for a partner visa in Dubai involves the following steps:
Step 1: Partner with Trade License Zone
Partner with Trade License Zone to help you confidently navigate the partner visa process. Our business setup specialists and administration aces streamline the entire partner visa application, company formation, and government approvals processes. It really is that simple.
Step 2: Partnership Agreement:
Prepare a partnership agreement outlining the terms and conditions of the partnership between the foreign national and the local Emirati sponsor. The agreement should specify ownership percentages, profit-sharing arrangements, roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes within the partnership.
Step 3: Company Formation
If establishing a new company, it must be registered in Dubai and obtain the necessary trade license and approvals from the relevant authorities. Ensure compliance with the requirements specific to your business activity and industry.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Gather the necessary documents for the partner visa application:
- Passport
- Completed partner visa application form
- Partnership agreement
- Trade license
- Financial documents (such as the company’s bank statements, etc.)
- Emirates IDs of all shareholders
- Health Insurance certificate
Step 5: Submit the Partner Visa Application
Submit the completed partner visa application form and the required documents to the appropriate authorities.
Step 6: Partner Visa Application Fees
The next step of the process is to pay the partner visa fees as specified by the authorities.
Step 7: Medical Examination
Undergo a medical examination at an approved medical centre or facility to meet the health requirements for the partner visa.
Step 8: Approval and Visa Stamping
Once the application is processed and approved, the authorities will issue an entry permit or visa. The visa can be stamped on the passport by visiting the immigration office or designated visa stamping centres in Dubai.
For expert guidance on this process – and to avoid any errors or delays – the specialists at Trade License Zone are on hand every step of the way.
How much is the partner visa in Dubai?
The cost of a partner visa in Dubai ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 13,000. The cost varies depending on the type of investment or business.
It is important to note that visa fees and associated costs can change over time, so it is advisable to consult with professional business setup specialists such as Trade License Zone to obtain up-to-date information and guidance.
Dubai and UAE partner visa rules
These are the essential rules related to partner visas in Dubai and the UAE:
- Local sponsorship: Foreign nationals applying for a partner visa must have a local Emirati sponsor or partner. The sponsor/partner holds the majority share (51%) in the company and acts as a local representative. The sponsor must be an Emirati citizen or a UAE national.
- Company formation: To obtain a business partner visa, the company in which the foreign national seeks partnership must be a legally registered entity in Dubai or the UAE. It should have a valid trade license issued by the relevant authorities.
- Share capital requirements: Dubai and the UAE may have minimum share capital requirements for certain types of business activities. The specific amount varies depending on the nature of the company and the industry in which it operates. Compliance with the share capital requirements is necessary.
- Partnership agreement: A valid partnership agreement between the foreign partner and the local Emirati sponsor is essential for the visa application. The agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership, including profit-sharing, decision-making processes and responsibilities.
- Visa duration: Partner visas in Dubai and the UAE have a duration of three years, and they can be renewed.
- Visa renewal: Visa renewal requires adhering to the renewal procedures and meeting any updated requirements set by the authorities.
- Business activity restrictions: certain business activities in Dubai and the UAE may have specific regulations, licensing requirements or restrictions. Ensuring compliance with these regulations and obtaining the necessary permits or approvals for the chosen business activity is crucial.
- Legal obligations: Business partners in Dubai and the UAE have legal obligations, including compliance with local laws and regulations, timely submission of financial statements, and adherence to tax obligations.
You should seek professional guidance from business setup services such as Trade License Zone, which can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information based on the current laws and requirements in Dubai and the UAE.
Frequently asked questions about partner visa in Dubai
How to renew a partner visa?
There are five simple steps involved when renewing a partner visa:
- Gather the required documents, including your passport, Emirates ID, partner visa application form, an updated partnership agreement (if any changes to the business or partnership have been made) and the company’s financial records. Ensure the company’s trade license is up to date and provide a copy.
- Sometimes, a medical examination may be required for the visa renewal.
- Submit the completed visa renewal application form and supporting documents to the relevant authorities. This may involve visiting the immigration office or using online application portals if available.
- Pay the applicable partner visa renewal fees specified by the authorities.
- Once your partner visa is renewed, the final step will be visiting the immigration office or designated visa stamping centres to have your visa stamped on your passport.
Can a partner work with this visa?
Yes, a partner is authorised to work and actively engage in business activities within the company they are partnered with. This visa also grants legal authorisation for the foreign partner to reside in Dubai and contribute to the operations and growth of the business.
How long will a partner visa take?
The partner visa application process takes 15 to 20 working days to complete.
To ensure the smooth and timely processing of your partner visa application, it is advisable to start the application process well in advance, gather all the required documents, and seek professional guidance from business setup experts such as Trade License Zone. We can provide personalised assistance, help streamline the application process, and keep you informed about any potential delays or changes in processing times.
A complex visa application process made easy
Obtaining a partner visa in Dubai allows foreign entrepreneurs to establish or expand their business ventures. While the UAE authorities have largely streamlined the process, it remains complex, and you must partner with a local Emirati sponsor (who will hold a minimum of 51% of the business).
As a first step in the application process, Trade License Zone is your go-to for smart business setup and support. With proper guidance and preparation, you can successfully obtain a partner visa in Dubai and seize business growth and success opportunities in this dynamic city.