If you’re planning to live and do business in the UAE, getting a Partner Visa in Dubai can open the door to long-term residency, company ownership, and many benefits. As one of the most popular visa options for investors and entrepreneurs, the partner visa allows individuals to legally reside and run a business in Dubai without the need for a local sponsor.
What Is a Partner Visa in Dubai?
A partner visa in Dubai is a type of residence visa granted to individuals who own or hold shares in a UAE-based company. It’s often used interchangeably with the term “investor visa,” but it typically applies to those who establish or partner in a company within Dubai.
This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who want to reside in Dubai and manage their own business. It’s available in both mainland and free zone company structures. While the Golden Visa is a longer-term solution with strict eligibility criteria, the partner visa offers a faster and more accessible way to establish a presence in the UAE.
Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa?
To apply for a Partner Visa in Dubai, you must be a shareholder in a company registered in the UAE. This includes both mainland and free zone businesses. The visa is open to individuals of most nationalities, but the specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction and the company’s legal structure.
Typically, the applicant must own a certain percentage of shares in the company. While there is no fixed age limit, applicants must pass a medical fitness test and meet all immigration requirements. Key documents such as trade licenses, shareholder certificates, and MOA (Memorandum of Association) are necessary to prove your stake in the business.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply
1. Set up your UAE business
Before applying for the partner visa, you must have a registered business in Dubai. This can be a mainland company or a free zone entity, depending on your business goals and activity.
2. Get your trade license and MOA
Once your business is registered, obtain your trade license and MOA. These documents confirm your ownership and legal authority within the business.
3. Apply for an entry permit
After setting up your company, you can apply for an entry permit through Dubai’s immigration authorities or the relevant free zone authority. This serves as a temporary visa that allows you to enter or stay in the UAE during the visa processing period.
4. Change visa status (if inside UAE)
If you’re already in the UAE on a visit or tourist visa, you’ll need to convert your status to a residence visa. This step is usually managed through immigration or a PRO service provider.
5. Undergo medical tests and biometrics
A medical fitness test is mandatory and includes blood tests and a chest X-ray. After passing the medical, you will provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, for your Emirates ID.
6. Get Emirates ID and visa stamping
Once your application is approved, your residency visa will be stamped into your passport. At the same time, you’ll receive your Emirates ID, which is essential for accessing government and private services in the UAE.
Documents Required
When applying for a Partner Visa in Dubai, you’ll need to submit several documents to prove your eligibility. These include:
- A clear copy of your passport
- A valid trade license for your business
- The MOA showing your shareholder status
- Recent bank statements
- A tenancy contract or utility bill as proof of residence
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness report
- Health insurance documentation
Submitting accurate and up-to-date documents can help avoid processing delays or rejections.
Cost of a Partner Visa in Dubai
While the exact partner visa fee in Dubai can vary depending on your business setup and chosen jurisdiction, there are several standard cost components. These include the entry permit, visa application fees, Emirates ID issuance, medical test charges, and optional PRO service fees.
Another cost to consider is health insurance, which is mandatory for visa holders. Depending on the provider and coverage, premiums may differ. Also, partner visa fees may be higher in certain free zones compared to mainland areas due to additional administrative costs.
To get a tailored estimate, it’s best to speak with a visa consultant or business setup expert. Check out Lukadah’s Services for a personalized consultation.
Benefits of Having a Partner Visa
Getting a partner visa in Dubai comes with several long-term benefits. First, it allows you to legally reside in Dubai for two or three years, with the option to renew indefinitely as long as your company remains active.
You also don’t need a local sponsor, giving you full control over your business. With a valid partner visa, you can open a personal and corporate bank account, lease property, and access local services. You’ll also be eligible to sponsor your spouse, children, and even domestic staff under certain conditions.
Another major benefit is that UAE income is tax-free, making it attractive for business owners. Plus, if your business grows and meets eligibility criteria, you could later upgrade to the prestigious Golden Visa.
Mainland vs Free Zone Partner Visa
Choosing between a mainland or free zone company will impact how your partner visa is processed. Free zones often offer streamlined visa processing and 100% foreign ownership but may limit the type of business activities you can conduct within the UAE.
Mainland companies allow you to trade directly within Dubai and the broader UAE market. However, some licenses may still require a local service agent, depending on your activity.
Free zones may offer cheaper setup packages initially, but ongoing maintenance costs and visa quotas differ. It’s crucial to assess your long-term business goals before selecting the jurisdiction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants face delays or visa rejections due to common mistakes. Submitting expired or missing documents can halt the process. Others may choose the wrong business structure, leading to complications in visa eligibility.
Another issue is failing to renew the visa on time, which can result in penalties or even a ban. Always ensure that your medical test and Emirates ID registration are completed promptly, as delays in one step can affect the entire timeline.
Working with a trusted consultancy like Lukadah can help you avoid these mistakes and navigate the system smoothly.
FAQs
1. Can I apply from outside the UAE?
Yes, you can apply for a partner visa while abroad. Once your entry permit is issued, you can travel to Dubai and complete the remaining steps.
2. What happens if I sell my shares?
If you no longer hold shares in the company, your partner visa may be cancelled, and you would need to change your visa status.
3. Is this visa valid across all Emirates?
While issued in Dubai, the visa allows you to reside in and travel across all Emirates.
4. Can I convert it to a Golden Visa?
Yes, if you meet the Golden Visa criteria, such as investment value or long-term contribution, you can apply for an upgrade.
5. Can I work in other companies?
The partner visa is linked to your business. If you want to work for another company, you’ll need the appropriate work permit or labor approval.
How Lukadah Can Help You Get a Partner Visa
At Lukadah, we specialize in end-to-end business setup and visa services in the UAE. Whether you’re setting up a free zone company or a mainland firm, our consultants will guide you through the process seamlessly.
We help you gather and verify all required documents, apply for your entry permit, and complete your medical and Emirates ID stages. Our team also handles tax registration, accounting, and PRO services to ensure you stay compliant.
With Lukadah, you’re not just getting a visa; you’re building a foundation for long-term success in Dubai.
Ready to start? Book a free consultation now
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