UAE Business Register (Investor Visa)

What is the UAE Investor Visa?

The UAE Investor Visa is a long-term residency permit granted to foreign nationals who make significant investments in the country. It allows investors to live, work, and even study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor, offering a stable and secure environment for individuals and their families. This visa underscores the UAE’s commitment to creating an attractive ecosystem for global talent and capital.

Types of UAE Investor Visas

The UAE offers several categories of investor visas, each with distinct requirements and durations. While the “Business Register (Investor Visa)” specifically refers to those investing in companies or entrepreneurial ventures, it’s important to understand the broader landscape, including the highly sought-after Golden Visa.

• Property Investor Visa: For individuals investing in real estate.
• Business Investor/Entrepreneur Visa: For those establishing or investing in a company.
• Retirement Investor Visa: For retirees meeting specific investment or savings criteria.
• Golden Visa: A long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years) offering extended benefits, applicable to various categories including substantial investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility for a UAE Investor Visa depends on the chosen category and the amount of investment. Here are the key criteria, with a focus on business and property investments:

Business Investor / Entrepreneur Visa

• Investment in an Existing Company:
  • Submission of a valid commercial or industrial license and a memorandum of association stating that the investor’s capital is not less than AED 2 million.
  • A letter from an investment fund accredited in the UAE confirming a deposit of AED 2 million.
• Establishing a New Company:
  • Proof of establishing a company in the UAE with a capital of not less than AED 2 million.
• Entrepreneur Golden Visa (5 years):
  • Ownership or partnership in a start-up registered as a Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) within the UAE.
  • The project value should be not less than AED 500,000 (requires approval letter from an auditor in the UAE).
  • Approval from an accredited business incubator in the UAE.
  • For existing entrepreneurial projects, a founder’s previous project(s) sold for a total value of not less than AED 7 million may also qualify.

Property Investor Visa

• 2-Year Property Investor Visa: Minimum investment of AED 750,000 in Dubai property. If mortgaged, at least 50% of the property’s value or AED 750,000 must be paid to the bank with a no-objection letter.
• 10-Year Golden Visa (Property Investor): Minimum investment of AED 2 million in property. This can be in one or more properties, regardless of whether it’s off-plan, completed, or mortgaged (with a bank letter indicating the paid amount).

Benefits of the UAE Investor Visa

Obtaining a UAE Investor Visa, particularly the Golden Visa, comes with a multitude of advantages:

• Long-Term Residency: Enjoy stable residency for 2, 5, or 10 years, renewable upon meeting the conditions.
• No Sponsor Needed: Unlike many other visa types, investor visas do not require a national sponsor.
• Family Sponsorship: Ability to sponsor your family members, including spouse and children (regardless of age), and an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
• Extended Stay Outside UAE: Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than the usual six-month period without affecting their visa validity.
• 100% Business Ownership: Golden Visa holders can fully own businesses on the UAE’s mainland, a significant advantage for foreign investors.
• Access to Government Services: Enjoy full access to government services and facilities.
• Flexible Travel: Multiple entry visa to facilitate business and personal travel.
• Tax-Free Environment: Benefit from the UAE’s attractive tax policies, including tax-free income.

Application Process

While the specific steps can vary slightly depending on the visa type and emirate, the general application process for a UAE Investor Visa involves:

1. Choose Your Investment Pathway: Decide whether to invest in real estate, establish a business, or pursue other qualifying investments.
2. Prepare Necessary Documents: Gather all required personal and investment-related documents.
3. Submit Application: Applications can be submitted through official channels like the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website and smart application, or through authorized service centers like GDRFA Amer centers.
4. Undergo Medical Test: A mandatory medical fitness test at a government-approved health center.
5. Register for Emirates ID: Apply for the Emirates ID, which serves as your identification card in the UAE.
6. Visa Stamping: Once approved, the visa will be stamped on your passport.

Processing time for an investor visa can range from 7-10 business days for certain property visas to 15-20 working days, including company registration and licensing, for business visas.

Required Documents

While a comprehensive list will be provided during the application process, common documents required for a UAE Investor Visa include:

• Copy of valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
• Recent passport-sized photos.
• Financial proof (e.g., bank statements, investment fund letters).
• Copy of trade license and Memorandum of Association (for business investors).
• Company establishment card (for business investors).
• Medical fitness certificate.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Attested MOA (for partnerships).
• Title deed of the property (for property investors).
• Good conduct certificate (may be required).
• Certified marriage contract and birth certificates (for family sponsorship).
• IBAN Number.

Fees and Validity

The cost and validity of the UAE Investor Visa vary by category:

*These are approximate costs and can vary. Additional fees for family sponsorship, Emirates ID, and medical tests apply.

Recent Changes and Updates

The UAE government consistently refines its visa policies to attract and retain global talent. A significant clarification was issued on July 8, 2025, by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). This statement categorically refuted rumors of a simplified, one-time-fee Golden Visa scheme, particularly for Indian nationals, that was being promoted by some third-party consultancies.

Key takeaways from the recent updates:

• All Golden Visa applications must be submitted exclusively via official UAE government channels, including the ICP’s website (icp.gov.ae) and smart application.
• There have been no announcements of changes to the investment or nomination procedures for any specific nationality.
• Applicants are strongly advised to avoid paying fees to third-party consultancies claiming to offer guaranteed Golden Visas or submitting documents through unauthorized platforms.
• Rely solely on information from the official ICP website (icp.gov.ae) or their 24/7 call center at 600522222.

The UAE continues to operate its official Golden Visa program through authorized investment channels and government-recognized pathways. Enhancements also include new categories for teachers, gaming professionals (Dubai Gaming Visa), and luxury yacht owners, demonstrating the UAE’s adaptive approach to talent attraction.

Why Choose the UAE for Investment?

Beyond the attractive visa programs, the UAE offers a compelling environment for investors and entrepreneurs:

• Strategic Location: A gateway between East and West, offering unparalleled access to emerging markets.
• Business-Friendly Policies: Stable economic and political environment, supportive government regulations, and free zones.
• No Personal Income Tax: A major incentive for individuals and businesses.
• World-Class Infrastructure: Modern transportation, communication, and healthcare systems.
• High Quality of Life: Safe, multicultural, and vibrant communities with excellent amenities.
• Full Repatriation of Profits: Complete freedom to repatriate investments and profits.