How to Get an Investor Visa in Dubai: A Complete Guide

How to Get an Investor Visa in Dubai: A Complete Guide (2024)

Dubai is one of the world’s top business and investment hubs, attracting entrepreneurs and investors with its tax-free environment, strategic location, and high-quality lifestyle. If you’re planning to invest in real estate, a business, or a company in Dubai, you can apply for an Investor Visa, which allows you to live, work, and sponsor your family in the UAE.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✅ Types of Investor Visas in Dubai

✅ Eligibility Criteria

✅ Required Documents

✅ Step-by-Step Application Process

✅ Costs & Processing Time

✅ Benefits of the Investor Visa

1. What is an Investor Visa in Dubai?

The Dubai Investor Visa (also called the Partner Visa) is a long-term residency visa for foreign investors who:

✔ Invest in a business or company in Dubai.

✔ Buy real estate worth AED 750,000 or more.

✔ Invest in UAE government-approved projects.

This visa allows investors to stay in Dubai legally, operate businesses, and sponsor their families.

2. Types of Investor Visas in Dubai

There are three main types of investor visas based on the investment category:

A. Business Investor Visa (For Company Owners & Partners)

✅ For individuals investing in or setting up a company in Dubai.

✅ Requires proof of shareholding worth AED 50,000 or more.

✅ Issued for 2 or 3 years, depending on the emirate.

B. Real Estate Investor Visa (For Property Owners)

✅ Available for those who invest in Dubai real estate.

✅ Minimum investment: AED 750,000 (for a 3-year visa) and AED 2 million (for a 10-year Golden Visa).

C. UAE Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency for Large Investors)

✅ 10-year visa for investors with at least AED 2 million in real estate or AED 10 million in other investments.

✅ No need for a local sponsor.

3. Requirements for a Dubai Investor Visa

Each type of investor visa has different requirements:

For Business Investor Visa:

✔ Business license (trade license)

✔ Memorandum of Association (MOA) showing ownership shares

✔ Bank statements of the company

✔ Investor’s personal bank statement

✔ Passport copy & visa copy (if applicable)

For Real Estate Investor Visa:

✔ Title deed of the property

✔ Property value certificate from the Dubai Land Department (DLD)

✔ No-objection certificate (NOC) from the bank (if property is mortgaged)

✔ Health insurance

For UAE Golden Visa:

✔ Proof of investment (real estate, company shares, or government bonds)

✔ Police clearance certificate

✔ Medical fitness test

4. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Dubai Investor Visa

✅ Step 1: Choose Your Investment Type

Decide whether you want to invest in a business, real estate, or government-backed projects.

✅ Step 2: Register Your Investment

• For business investors: Register your company with Dubai Economy & Tourism (DET).

• For real estate investors: Verify your property investment with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

✅ Step 3: Apply for Entry Permit (If Outside UAE)

• Submit an application via GDRFA Dubai (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or a free zone authority.

• If you’re outside the UAE, you’ll receive an entry permit valid for 60 days.

✅ Step 4: Complete Medical & Biometrics

• Take a medical fitness test in a UAE government-approved health center.

• Submit biometrics for Emirates ID processing.

✅ Step 5: Get Your Residency Visa Stamped

• Once all approvals are completed, your visa will be stamped in your passport.

• The visa is usually valid for 2, 3, 5, or 10 years, depending on the investment.

5. Cost of an Investor Visa in Dubai

The cost of an investor visa depends on the type and validity:

💰 Additional Costs:

• Medical Test: AED 700 - 1,000

• Emirates ID: AED 370 - 1,070

• Bank Deposit (Refundable): AED 3,000 - 5,000 (for some visas)

6. Benefits of a Dubai Investor Visa

✅ Live & Work in Dubai – Enjoy tax-free earnings and business opportunities.

✅ Sponsor Family Members – Bring your spouse, children, and parents.

✅ No Local Sponsor Required – 100% foreign ownership of your business.

✅ Tax-Free Environment – No personal or corporate income tax.

✅ Easy Travel – Enter and exit Dubai freely without frequent visa renewals.

7. FAQs About the Dubai Investor Visa

❓ Can I apply for an Investor Visa if my property is mortgaged?

✔ Yes, but you must have paid off at least 50% of the mortgage and obtain an NOC from the bank.

❓ How long does it take to get an Investor Visa in Dubai?

✔ The process typically takes 15-30 days, depending on approvals.

❓ Can I sponsor employees on an Investor Visa?

✔ Yes, business investors can sponsor employees under their company license.

❓ What happens if I sell my property or close my business?

✔ Your visa may be canceled if you no longer meet the investment criteria.

Final Thoughts: Is a Dubai Investor Visa Worth It?

If you’re planning to invest in Dubai’s booming economy, an Investor Visa is the best way to establish long-term residency while enjoying tax benefits and business freedom. Whether you’re a startup founder, real estate investor, or business owner, Dubai offers excellent opportunities for foreign investors.

🚀 Thinking about applying for a Dubai Investor Visa? Let me know if you need help choosing the right option!