Freezone Visas in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a premier global business hub, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from around the world. Central to this growth is the UAE’s extensive network of freezones, which offer a myriad of benefits, streamlined regulations, and attractive visa options.
Types of Freezone Visas UAE
Dubai’s freezones cater to various needs, providing tailored visa solutions for investors, employees, freelancers, students, and dependents.
Investor Visa
An investor visa is ideal for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to set up a business or invest in a company within a Dubai freezone. Eligibility typically involves a minimum investment in the freezone, possession of a business license, and sometimes a business plan. This visa grants residency rights and can often be extended for several years.
Employment Visa
The employment visa freezone is the most common type of Dubai freezone visa issued to employees working for companies registered within a freezone. The visa duration ranges from one to three years, depending on the freezone and employment contract. Companies sponsor this visa, and eligibility is based on having a valid job offer and meeting any educational or salary requirements set by the freezone.
Partner/Investor Visa (with Business Visit Visa)
This visa type combines elements of the investor visa and allows some flexibility. It is offered to partners in a freezone company alongside business visit visa privileges. Business visit visas allow short stays within Dubai for business purposes but do not grant residency rights.
Student Visa
The student visit visa is offered by some freezones that host universities or educational institutions. It allows students enrolled in these institutions to reside in Dubai for the duration of their studies.
Dependent Visa
The dependent visa allows family members (spouses and children) of existing freezone visa holders (investors or employees) to reside in Dubai. The sponsor must meet specific income requirements set by the freezone authority.
Difference Between Freezone and Mainland Visa
Understanding the difference between freezone and mainland visas is crucial for businesses and professionals considering their options in the UAE.
A Mainland Visa requires a local Emirati sponsor who must own at least 51% of your company, involves the sponsor handling much of the paperwork, is governed by UAE Labor Law, and is valid for two years. In contrast, a Free Zone Visa allows for 100% foreign ownership, lets you manage legal matters independently or with the help of service providers, is governed by the specific regulations of the chosen free zone, and offers a longer validity of three years at a slightly lower cost.
Additionally, Mainland Visas provide direct access to the UAE local market, while Free Zone Visas are ideal for businesses targeting international markets. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision that best suits your business needs in Dubai.
Freezone Visa Process - How to obtain a Freezone Visa UAE?
1
Choose Your Freezone
UAE hosts numerous freezones, each catering to different business activities and industries. Popular freezones include:
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
2
Register Your Company
Complete the registration process with the chosen free zone authority by providing all necessary documents and fees.
3
Apply for a Free Zone Visa
Submit your visa application along with the required documents, such as passport copies, photographs, and proof of company registration.
4
Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID Registration
Undergo a medical fitness test at a designated medical center approved by the freezone authority. This includes a blood test and chest X-ray. Following the medical test, apply for an Emirates ID card, a mandatory national identity card for UAE residents.
5
Entry Permit Approval
Once your application is approved, you will receive an entry permit, allowing you to enter the UAE and proceed with the visa stamping process.
The entry permit is a temporary visa valid for 60 days. It is usually issued within 15 days, but a fast-track option is available for an additional fee, reducing the processing time to 5-7 days.
6
Visa Stamping Process
Visa stamping activates your entry permit. This can be done in three main ways:
- In-Country Process: If you are already in the UAE, submit your passport to the immigration department for stamping.
- Out-Of-The-Country Process: If applying from outside the UAE, activate the visa upon arrival at a Dubai airport immigration counter.
- Border Run Process: Exit the UAE to a neighbouring country and re-enter to get your visa stamped. This method is not recommended due to potential complications.
Once stamped, you can apply for dependent visas for your family members.
How can we assist you
Kabayan Ehsan offers personalized consultations for UAE Freezone Visa, helping foreigners efficiently secure residency in the country. We assist investors in assessing their eligibility for a UAE Freezone Visa and handle the submission of their applications along with the necessary documents. Contact us today to simplify the process of obtaining a Freezone Visa in the UAE. Let us help you submit your application with all the relevant documents easily.
