If you are ready to expand globally, Dubai offers a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurs like you. Having a Dubai Visa for startup founder or Dubai visa for business owner, you tap into strategic markets, tax advantages, and world-class infrastructure. Let’s learn the process to get a Dubai Visa as a startup founder or business owner through this article.
Overview of Dubai Business Visa Categories
When applying for a Dubai Business Visa, you need to consider a strategy. You must also analyse your budget, and long-term goals.
Common options for Dubai Business Visa Categories are as follows:
- Golden Visa: for innovators or founders meeting investment or revenue thresholds Golden Visa in Dubai offers 5- or 10-year residency without needing a sponsor.
- Green Visa: Green Visa is for entrepreneurs or investors who meet certain financial stability criteria (e.g., a set capital investment). Using a green visa you can get self-sponsorship over five years.
- Investor/Partner Visa: It is linked to your company ownership after Dubai company registration in a Free Zone or mainland; lets you reside and manage your business.
- Startup or Entrepreneur Visa: This visa is for promising ventures endorsed by approved incubators or government entities. It can streamline routes to longer-term residency or Golden Visa eligibility.
Most Crucial Step to get Dubai Visa as Startup Founder
The most crucial step to get a Dubai business visa is that you need to start by registering your company. It is crucial because your residence visa depends on it. You must decide between Free Zone and mainland company registration based on your activity and market access.
- In a Free Zone, you keep 100% ownership, enjoy simplified setup, and often get faster visa issuance. Choose a Free Zone aligned with your sector (tech, media, logistics, etc.).
- On the mainland, you access the broader UAE market directly but may need a local partner or service agent unless your activity qualifies for 100% foreign ownership.
You can understand in detail the difference here:
Difference Between Mainland and Freezone Company in UAE
Steps for Dubai company registration
- Choose jurisdiction and trade name (ensure it aligns with regulations)
- Define your business activities and obtain initial approvals
- Prepare legal documents: passport copies, business plan (especially for startup endorsement), lease agreement or proof of office (co-working or virtual office may suffice in some Free Zones)
- Finalize license agreement and register with the relevant authority
- Open a corporate bank account once you have your license documents
Step-by-Step Dubai Visa Application Process
After company registration in Dubai, you proceed to your residence visa:
- Gather all documents: your license copy, shareholder passport copies, lease contract or Free Zone office contract, business plan (if needed for startup or investor visa), and proof of finances.
- Apply for an entry permit if you’re applying from abroad, or change status if you’re already in UAE on another visa.
- Complete medical fitness tests at authorized health centers.
- Register for Emirates ID and provide biometric data.
- Secure mandated health insurance coverage.
- Finalize visa stamping in your passport and receive an Emirates ID card.
If you need to track your application, you can track progress via official portals or a PRO service. In general, you can finish the whole process within 2–4 weeks if documentation is complete.
Important Tips for Dubai Visa for Business Owner Application
To get the UAE Golden Visa as an entrepreneur, focus on these core areas:
1. Business & Backing:
- Secure an endorsement from an approved incubator (like Dubai Future Foundation, in5, Hub71).
- Have a strong business plan showcasing innovation, market potential, and financial projections.
- Meet financial requirements: AED 1 million annual revenue OR a secured investment with a project value of at least AED 500,000.
2. Application & Logistics:
- Invest in an approved startup or accredited SME.
- Obtain necessary endorsement letters from authorities.
- Ensure your passport has 6+ months validity.
- Budget for all fees (company registration ~AED 15k-28k, visa, insurance).
- Consider a co-working/virtual office initially.
- Expect visa processing to take 2-4 weeks.
- Consider hiring a local consultant (PRO) for assistance.
3. Post-Visa & Compliance:
- Complete standard steps: health insurance, Emirates ID.
- Renew business license and health insurance annually.
- Comply with visa conditions: reside primarily in UAE, stick to licensed activities.
- Meet salary requirements to sponsor spouse and children (no age limit for children under Golden Visa, and you can sponsor up to three executive directors for the 5-year visa).
FAQs
What is the minimum investment for a Golden Visa as a startup founder?
You typically need to invest in an approved startup (often AED 500,000+) or show ownership in an SME with annual revenues of AED 1M+, plus endorsements from approved incubators or authorities for a golden visa.
Can I get a residence visa by registering a Free Zone company?
Yes. After you complete Dubai company registration in a Free Zone and receive your license, you can apply for an Investor/Partner residence visa under that company to live and work in Dubai.
How long does the visa process take for business owners?
Once you submit complete documents, you can finish the entire process within 2–4 weeks.
Can I sponsor my family on my business visa?
Yes, if you meet the minimum salary or bank balance requirements set by immigration. Thresholds will differ by visa type and may update, so check the latest figures.
Can I switch from a tourist visa to a business visa?
Yes. If you’re in the UAE on a visit visa, you can apply for a residence visa linked to your company registration, complete medical tests, and get your residency permit stamped.
How do I maintain my visa status after issuance?
You renew your business license annually, apply for visa renewal before expiry, keep health insurance active, and maintain office lease or Free Zone commitments. Track expiry dates carefully to avoid gaps.
Are there tax implications for business owners in Dubai?
You benefit from zero personal income tax and often zero corporate tax for qualifying activities. However, register for VAT if your turnover meets thresholds, and consider your global tax responsibilities if you have ties elsewhere.
What if I want to change or expand my business activities?
You can submit modification requests to your licensing authority, pay any fees, and update your visa if shareholder structure or office requirements change.
If you need further assistance or have any doubts, our experts are here to help you. Call us: 8881-069-069.
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