For those looking to live and work in the UAE, obtaining a free zone visa Dubai is one of the most sought-after options. If you are considering relocating to the UAE, you have likely heard about freezones. These freezones are an incredible initiative by the UAE government, designed to promote businesses across various industries.
Starting a business in a freezone offers entrepreneurs access to modern facilities, major tax savings, and ease of business setup.
Wondering what a freezone is and how to obtain a freezone visa? You have come to the right place! In this article, we will explore the key aspects of obtaining a freezone visa in the UAE, including the process, types and much more.
What is freezone in Dubai
Freezones, also known as free trade zones, are special economic areas in Dubai where businesses can be established who can enjoy unique benefits and incentives. Freezones have their own regulating authorities and let foreign entrepreneurs enjoy 100% business ownership and considerable tax savings.
What is free zone visa Dubai
A freezone visa in Dubai is an official authorization that lets foreigners stay and work in the freezones. Basically, it is a residence visa. Freezone stand out when it comes to deciding location for business setup in Dubai. Therefore, the demand for the free zone visa Dubai also keeps on growing year after year. The validity of the freezone visa is typically one, two or three years.
Kinds of Dubai freezone visa
There are different types of freezone visas in Dubai, UAE, which meets the needs of different categories of applicants such as students, freelancers, investors, employees, etc. Here are the main types of free zone visa Dubai:
Investor visa: Those looking to make a significant capital investment in Dubai, whether in government-approved funds, a business or property, would be eligible for an investor visa. Under each category, there will be specific minimum investment and other eligibility requirements.
Employment visa: Employees working for UAE-based companies can apply for an employment visa. The validity of such visa is typically two years, which is also subject to the employment contract and the freezone authority issuing it. Usually, the companies hiring take care of the application and sponsor visas for their employees.
Student visa: The student visa is available to those who get enrolled in a university or institution located within a freezone Dubai.
Family visa: Existing freezone residence visa holders can sponsor the residency of their dependents such as spouse, parents and children. To do so, the sponsor must meet the requirements laid out by the UAE government.
Freelancer visa: Self-employed individuals who work independently on a contractual basis can get a freelancer visa in the UAE. It is usually suitable for those in industries like media, IT, accounting, consulting and so on.
Process to get freezone visa in UAE
Here is how to apply for free zone visa in UAE:
Step 1. Choose your freezone:
First you must decide where you want to get the visa in which freezone. There are more than 40 freezones in UAE that specialize in industries like healthcare, IT, media, science, education, finance, etc. You must choose the one that suits your intended business activity.
Step 2. Register for e channel:
In most of the freezones in UAE, the visa application can be made through e-channel. The e-channel makes the immigration and visa related process easy and available at the fingertips. It also reduces the burden of paperwork and hassle of running from one government department to another.
Step 3. Get the entry permit:
To enter and complete the visa formalities, you must first secure an entry permit. The permit can also be applied for through the e-channel. The validity of the entry permit is 60 days, and during this period, you can proceed further with the visa application. Generally, it is issued within 15 days of the request. Through fast-track services, you can receive it in 5 to 7 days as well.
Step 4. Visa status change:
Next when you receive your entry permit, you must activate it through visa stamping. There are three ways to get the passport stamped by the immigration officers:
In-country process: The passport is submitted to the immigration department, and they stamp the entry permit on it.
Out-of-country process: Upon arrival at the airport, the passport can be submitted to the immigration officer.
Border run process: This involves leaving the country first, then upon re-entry (using the issued visa) and getting it stamped by the immigration officer.
Step 5. Get through medical tests:
At a government-approved medical center, you would need to undergo medical assessments. This usually involves a blood test, X-rays, etc., to evaluate your medical fitness for staying in the UAE.
Step 6. Apply for Emirates ID:
Through an approved typing center, the applicant must apply for the Emirates ID, which acts as an identification card in the nation. The application process also includes getting biometric data screened. This card allows access to various services in the country, such as opening a bank account, accessing utility services, etc.
Step 7. Residence visa stamping:
After receiving your Emirates ID, you must submit your passport to the immigration authority for residence visa stamping and with that, you have successfully received your UAE freezone visa.
Documents needed or Dubai freezone visa
The general documents needed for a free zone visa Dubai application include:
- Filled application form
- Original passport
- Freezone business license
- Current visa, if any
- Medical fitness certificate
- Security clearance
- Bank statements
- Passport-sized photographs
- Specific supporting documents for the visa category
Please note that there may be additional document requirements. We recommend letting the experts handle your immigration application.
Cost of free zone visa Dubai
The average cost of free zone visa Dubai is around AED 3750*. However, you must know that the costs are subject to changes over time and also vary with individual requirements. For getting the latest cost updates, you can check with the official website of immigration authorities or talk to an expert.
Conclusion
A freezone visa in Dubai allows you to stay and work in the bustling city of Dubai without any worries. The visa opens doors to the exciting opportunities that the city holds for its residents. Freezones have become a major attraction for businesses in Dubai, and getting a freezone visa is key to operating there legally.
To make your free zone visa Dubai application smooth, you can entrust it to the professionals. Dubiz Business Setup has been helping entrepreneurs launch in the United Arab Emirates for years and has successfully assisted them in acquiring the freezone visa for businesses and staff. Their wide range of PRO services takes care of all the legal paperwork and approvals needed to start a business in Dubai.
Contact them today for inquiries.
