Investor Visa / Partner Visa
The Investor Visa, often referred to as a Partner Visa, is a residency visa that grants foreign nationals the right to live in Dubai and the UAE based on their investment in or ownership of a local business. This visa is a key component of the UAE's strategy to attract foreign direct investment and promote economic growth.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Self-Sponsorship: Unlike an employment visa, this visa is not tied to a specific employer. The investor or partner acts as their own sponsor, providing a high degree of flexibility and independence.
- Long-Term Residency: The visa is typically issued for a duration of 2 to 3 years and can be renewed as long as the investment or business remains active and compliant. Higher investment thresholds can qualify for longer-term residency visas, including the 5 or 10-year Golden Visa.
- Full Business Control: In most cases, this visa allows for 100% foreign ownership of the business, particularly in free zones and increasingly on the mainland. This means the investor has complete control over their business operations, profits, and decisions without needing a local sponsor.
- Family Sponsorship: Investor visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members (spouse, children, and parents) to live with them in the UAE, providing stability and a clear path for family residency.
- Access to Financial and Business Services: The visa enables the holder to open both personal and corporate bank accounts, register for utilities, and access the full suite of services available to residents.
- Travel Flexibility: It allows the holder to travel freely in and out of the UAE, and unlike some other visa types, it often comes with a longer grace period for being outside the country without risking visa cancellation.
Types and Eligibility:
The type of investor or partner visa and the specific eligibility criteria depend on the nature of the investment and the business jurisdiction (mainland or free zone).
- Mainland Partner Visa: This visa is for individuals who have a shareholding in a company registered with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) on the mainland. The minimum capital investment is often a key requirement.
- Free Zone Investor Visa: This visa is for individuals who establish or have a shareholding in a company within a free zone. The minimum investment varies depending on the free zone and the business activity.
- Real Estate Investor Visa: An alternative path to a long-term visa is through real estate investment. A property valued at a specific amount (e.g., AED 750,000 for a 2-year visa or AED 2 million for a Golden Visa) can be used to qualify for a residency visa.
Application Process:
The process for obtaining an investor or partner visa generally includes:
- Business Setup: The first step is to establish a legal business entity and obtain a trade license.
- Immigration File Creation: The company's immigration file is opened with the relevant government authority (GDRFA or Free Zone Authority).
- Entry Permit Application: An entry permit is applied for to allow the investor to enter the country to complete the visa formalities.
- Medical Fitness Test & Biometrics: The investor must undergo a medical test and complete the Emirates ID application, including biometrics.
- Visa Stamping: Once all requirements are met, the residency visa is stamped in the applicant's passport.
The agency's role is to provide a comprehensive service, guiding clients through the entire process, from business jurisdiction selection and company formation to visa application, ensuring all legal requirements are met efficiently and accurately.
