Dubai Business Visa

Dubai Business Visas

So, you want to invest in the City of Gold? That’s great! You’ve made a wise decision, because when it comes to a business-friendly environment that’s full of amazing benefits, it doesn’t get any better than Dubai. Now you need to start the process of getting everything together to apply for your Dubai business visa. This visa is a part of the Golden Visa system that lets foreigners get a long-term visa for themselves and their dependents. Unlike other countries, getting a Dubai business visa is pretty simple. MSZ Consultancy can make the process move along even quicker. Keep reading to see what is required to get your business visa in Dubai.

Types of Business Visas

What type of business visa do I need? There are several of them, after all. Let's look at some of the ones available to you:

1. Visit Visas

For those looking to explore business opportunities, attend meetings, or participate in conferences, the Short-Term Visit Visa is an ideal choice. It allows visitors to stay in Dubai for up to 30 days, with an option for an extension. This visa is non-renewable and is suitable for short-term business activities.

The long-term visit visa offers entrepreneurs an even longer stay that ranges between 90 days and a year. This visa is renewable and provides flexibility for individuals undertaking long-term projects.

2. Residence Visas

Entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business presence in Dubai can opt for a residency visa. These are broken down into:

a. Investor/Partner Visas
Entrepreneurs looking to establish a business presence in Dubai can opt for the Investor/Partner Visa. To qualify, one must invest in a business or become a partner in an existing venture. This visa allows for a more extended stay and is typically granted for 2 to 3 years, with an option for renewal.

b. Employment Visas
For individuals planning to work for a Dubai-based company, the Employment Visa is the most suitable option. It requires sponsorship from the employer and is granted for a specific job role. This visa is renewable and often leads to the possibility of obtaining a Residence Visa.

c. Freelancer Permits
The Freelancer Permit allows independent professionals to work in the city without the need for a company sponsor. It provides flexibility for those offering specialized services and is typically issued for a specific project or contract.

d. Virtual Company Licenses
A Virtual Company License enables entrepreneurs to establish a business in Dubai without a physical presence. This license is ideal for those running online businesses and allows issuing up to three residence visas.

What Are the Steps for Applying for a Dubai Business Visa?

There are different types of Dubai business visas that you can apply for. This will depend on how long you plan on being in Dubai. Here are the different Dubai business visa validity periods:

Determine the Type of Business Visa You Need
Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to identify the type of business visa that best suits your needs. Whether planning a short-term visit, long-term investment, or employment, understanding the specific requirements for each visa category is the first step.
Gather Required Documents
Compile all necessary documents for your visa application. Common documents include a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, a letter of invitation or employment, and relevant business documents such as trade licenses or investment certificates. Make sure all documents are up-to-date and meet the specific requirements outlined by the Dubai authorities.
Submit Your Application Online
Dubai has streamlined its visa application process by introducing online platforms. Most business visa applications can be submitted through official websites or portals designated for visa processing. Fill out your application form accurately, providing all required information and attaching the necessary documents. This process can take up to 30 days.
Pay Visa Fees
Visa fees vary based on the type and duration of the visa. Be sure to check the latest fee structure and make the necessary payment through the online portal. Keep a record of the payment receipt, as it may be required during the application review process.
Application Review and Approval
Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a thorough review by the relevant authorities. This process may take several weeks, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Stay updated on your application status through the online portal. If your application is not approved, you’ll have the chance to apply again in 90 days.
Collect your Visa and Enjoy Your Stay
Once approved, you'll receive your visa electronically. Print a copy and carry it with you when traveling to Dubai. This visa allows you to enter the country. However, upon arrival, you may need to undergo additional checks at the airport.

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What Are the Documents Required for a Dubai Business Visa?

Like we mentioned earlier, you’ll have to submit some required documents during the application process. Here is what you’ll need to get together to turn in:

Copies of the first and last page of your passport
Two colored photographs
Financial reports including: Income tax returns, Form 16, and investment proofs
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) for ladies and students
For couples: marriage certificate Proof

Who is Eligible for a Dubai Business Visa?

Any entrepreneur that has created their own business at some point and wants to set up the business in the UAE is eligible for a Dubai business visa. This includes professionals from any country.

Here are some other requirements that have to be met in order to be considered eligible for a business visa in Dubai:

Show proof of experience
Be a majority shareholder or senior leader of a business or start-up
Be willing to relocate to the UAE
Have a thorough business plan
Pass Federal Authority requirements for identity and citizenship
Pass a background check and full health assessment

How Much Does a Business Visa Dubai Cost?

In most cases, you can expect a business visa to cost between AED 500 and 1,000, depending on the nature of your business, start-up expenses, and local fees. You'll also be required to place a security deposit of AED 1,000, as well as all application fees. These fees include:

Visa Cost:

Cost Item	Dubai	Other Emirates
Security Deposit	AED 1000	AED 1025
60-day visa application fee	AED 555.75	AED 470
90-day visa application fee	AED 685.75	AED 630
120-day visa application fee	AED 815.75	AED 790

Why Should I Get a Business Visa Dubai?

The biggest benefit to getting a business visa in Dubai is getting to stay in Dubai for a long amount of time and run your business in this beautiful city.

Here are some other benefits a foreign entrepreneur will get with this visa:

They will be able to start their business in Dubai, which is already a booming economy
They will be able to stay in the country for 6 months
The visa will allow three of the business’s senior staff to also obtain residency
Entrepreneurs who have a visa will be able to sponsor their dependents

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MSZ Consultancy Can Help You with Your Business Visa

While the business vias process is designed to be easier in the UAE, it still involves a lot of paperwork, attention to detail, and a local touch. For these reasons and many more, you want MSZ Consultancy at your side.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your business journey, we’re ready to help! MSZ Consultancy has years of experience assisting investors and business owners make their way in the Emirates. We’ll work closely with you to avoid common pitfalls that can reduce your chances of success and slow down the overall process.

Call us today at +971 52 544 1248 for a FREE consultation, and let’s get started on turning your business dreams into a tangible reality!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you have a question about starting a company in the UAE? We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about what you can expect:

How long can I stay in Dubai with a business visa?

Your length of stay really depends on the type of visa you choose. Short-term visit visas usually give you about 30 days, while long-term visit visas can stretch from 90 days up to a full year. If you go for a residency-based business visa-like an investor or partner visa-you can typically stay for 2 to 3 years at a time, and these visas are renewable. So whether you’re just testing the waters or planning a long-term move, there’s a visa option that fits your plans.

Do I need to have a business already running before applying for a Dubai business visa?

Not always. If you're applying for a visit visa or a Golden Visa-related business visa, you don’t need to have the business fully up and running yet. But if you're applying for an investor or partner visa, you’ll need to show some level of ownership or investment in a Dubai-based company. A strong business plan or proof that you’ve successfully run a business before can also support your application, especially if you’re applying as an entrepreneur.

Can I bring my family with me if I get a business visa?

Yes, and this is one of the biggest advantages of Dubai’s business visas. Once your visa is approved, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and sometimes even your parents. They’ll be able to live in Dubai with you, attend school, access healthcare, and enjoy everyday life in the UAE while you work on building your business.

How long does it take to get a Dubai business visa approved?

Most business visa applications take anywhere from a couple of weeks to about a month. The exact timing depends on which visa you’re applying for and how complete your documents are. If something is missing or additional checks are needed, it may take a little longer. Applying early and making sure everything is accurate helps speed things up.

Do I need to be in the UAE to apply for a business visa?

Not for every visa type. Many applications can be filed online while you’re still in your home country. For residency-based visas- like investor or partner visas- you’ll need to be in Dubai at some point for your medical test, biometrics, and final visa stamping. But aside from those steps, most of the process can be handled remotely, especially if you’re working with a consultancy that manages the heavy lifting for you.

Can I switch from a visit visa to a business residency visa while I’m already in Dubai?

Yes, you can. In fact, many entrepreneurs do exactly that. They arrive on a visit visa, explore the market, and once they’re ready to invest or set up a company, they simply convert their visa from within the UAE. You won’t need to leave the country- as long as your documents and investment are in order, the switch is straightforward.

What if my business idea changes after I apply for the visa?

It’s more common than you might think for ideas to evolve. Dubai’s business setup system is flexible, and you can usually adjust your business activity or update your trade license as your plans shift. If the change is substantial, you may need to update your documentation or apply under a different license category, but in most cases, making changes is simple and manageable.

Can a business visa eventually lead to permanent residency in the UAE?

While the UAE doesn’t offer traditional ‘permanent residency,’ long-term visas such as the Golden Visa are the closest alternative. These visas offer 5-10 years of residency and can be renewed indefinitely as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Many entrepreneurs start with a business visa, grow their company, and later qualify for a Golden Visa, which gives them long-term security and stability in the UAE.