A partner visa is granted to foreign nationals who own a company, hold shares in an existing business, or are expatriates who wish to establish a business in the United Arab Emirates. It is a residency visa designed to foster international collaboration and encourage foreign investment. Additionally, the holder is entitled to live and work in UAE legally and sponsor their family members’ visas. The visa is valid for three years and can be renewed.
Under this visa category, foreign entrepreneurs can partner with a local Emirati sponsor, who must hold a majority share in the company. This partnership is a foundation for the visa application and allows the foreign partner to legally work and reside in Dubai.
The partner visa enables entrepreneurs to expand their businesses or launch new ventures in Dubai, leveraging the city’s favorable economic climate, strategic location, and global connectivity. Moreover, Dubai provides immense opportunities for growth and profitability for foreign nationals investing in the Emirate.
Applying for a partner visa in Dubai involves the following steps:
Step 1: Partner with Quick Services
Partner with Quick Services to help you confidently navigate the partner visa process. Our business setup specialists and administration aces streamline the entire partner visa application, company formation, and government approvals processes. It really is that simple.
Step 2: Partnership Agreement:
Prepare a partnership agreement outlining the terms and conditions of the partnership between the foreign national and the local Emirati sponsor. The agreement should specify ownership percentages, profit-sharing arrangements, roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes within the partnership.
Step 3: Company Formation
If establishing a new company, it must be registered in Dubai and obtain the necessary trade license and approvals from the relevant authorities. Ensure compliance with the requirements specific to your business activity and industry.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Gather the necessary documents for the partner visa application:
Step 5: Submit the Partner Visa Application
Submit the completed partner visa application form and the required documents to the appropriate authorities.
Step 6: Partner Visa Application Fees
The next step of the process is to pay the partner visa fees as specified by the authorities.
Step 7: Medical Examination
Undergo a medical examination at an approved medical centre or facility to meet the health requirements for the partner visa.
Step 8: Approval and Visa Stamping
Once the application is processed and approved, the authorities will issue an entry permit or visa. The visa can be stamped on the passport by visiting the immigration office or designated visa stamping centers in Dubai.
For expert guidance on this process – and to avoid any errors or delays – the specialists at Quick Services are on hand every step of the way.
Obtaining a partner visa in Dubai is a multi-step process that requires fulfilling specific requirements set by the Dubai government. Below are the key criteria for obtaining a partner visa in Dubai:
Partnership Agreement:
A valid partnership agreement is essential. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership between the foreign national and the local Emirati sponsor. It must be signed and attested by all parties involved.
Minimum Capital Investment:
One of the major requirements for a partner visa in Dubai is for the foreign national to own shares in a company (whether newly established or existing) or invest in a company in Dubai. A foreign national can also start a business, too. The minimum investment is AED 72,000 for a partner visa.
Local Sponsorship:
As a foreign national, you must secure a local Emirati sponsor or partner who holds the company’s majority share (51%). The sponsor will act as a local representative and support the visa application process. Choosing a trustworthy and reliable sponsor who understands the local business landscape and complies with all legal obligations is essential.
Business Licensing:
The company where the foreign national seeks partnership must be legally registered in Dubai and carry a valid trade license.
Proof of Financial Capability:
You must provide evidence of financial capability, such as bank statements, financial records, or audited financial reports. This demonstrates your ability to support yourself and the business during your stay in Dubai.
Valid Passport and Photographs:
A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and recent passport-sized photographs are required for the visa application.
Health Insurance:
Dubai requires all residents, including Partner Visa holders, to have valid health insurance coverage.
