Dubai, a thriving metropolis known for its business-friendly environment and vibrant lifestyle, offers expatriates a range of visa options. Among these, the partner visa is a popular choice for individuals who wish to reside in Dubai while engaging in a business partnership. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a partner visa in Dubai in 2024, covering the requirements, application steps, costs, and benefits.
What is a Partner Visa?
A partner visa in Dubai is a specialized residency permit for individuals who are in a business partnership with a UAE national or resident. This visa allows the holder to live and work in Dubai, actively participating in the management and operations of their business. Additionally, partner visa holders have the privilege of sponsoring their immediate family members for residency in the UAE.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a partner visa in Dubai, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Business Partnership with a Local Sponsor:
- The applicant must partner with a local Emirati sponsor who owns the majority share (51%) in the company.
- This partnership should be supported by a legalized agreement recognized in both the UAE and the applicant’s home country.
- Minimum Investment:
- The applicant must invest a minimum of 72,000 AED in the company or hold a substantial share in it.
- Financial Capability of the Sponsor:
- The sponsor must demonstrate a minimum monthly salary of 4,000 AED, or 3,000 AED if accommodation is provided, to ensure they can support the applicant in Dubai.
- Valid Passport:
- The applicant must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
- Medical Fitness:
- The applicant must pass a medical examination, confirming the absence of contagious diseases.
- Medical Insurance:
- The applicant must have a valid medical insurance policy in Dubai.
Documentation Requirements
- Valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Copy of the sponsor’s passport
- Legalized partnership agreement
- Medical certificate obtained within 60 days of the visa application
- Valid medical insurance policy
- Salary certificate of the sponsor
- Recent passport-sized photographs
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining the Partner Visa in Dubai
Obtaining a partner visa in Dubai involves a series of steps that both the applicant and the sponsor must follow meticulously. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the entire process:
Apply for Entry Permit
The first step in obtaining a partner visa in Dubai involves the sponsor applying for an entry permit at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
The sponsor must gather and submit several essential documents, including a legalized partnership agreement that confirms the business relationship, a salary certificate to demonstrate financial capability and copies of both the sponsor’s and applicant’s passports.
Additionally, recent passport-sized photographs of the applicant are required. This entry permit acts as the initial authorization for the applicant to enter Dubai and begin the visa application process.
Travel to Dubai
Once the entry permit is issued, the applicant must travel to Dubai within its 60-day validity period. Upon arrival at the airport or border, the entry permit is stamped, which is a crucial step for proceeding with subsequent visa-related procedures.
This stamp signifies that the applicant is now officially in Dubai and can move forward with the medical examination and other necessary steps. The timely travel and proper stamping of the entry permit are essential to avoid any delays or complications in the visa application process.
Undergo Medical Examination
After arriving in Dubai, the applicant must undergo a mandatory medical examination at an authorized medical center. This examination typically includes a blood test and a chest X-ray to check for contagious diseases. The applicant must be declared medically fit to qualify for the visa. Within a few days, a fitness certificate is issued, confirming the absence of any contagious diseases or criminal records. This certificate is a vital document that must be submitted in the subsequent stages of the visa application process.
Apply for Resident Status and Work Permit
With the fitness certificate in hand, the applicant proceeds to apply for resident status at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs. The required documents for this application include the fitness certificate, entry permit, passport, and recent photographs.
If the applicant also intends to work in Dubai, they may need to apply for a work permit at this stage, which involves paying the relevant fees. Securing resident status is a significant milestone, as it grants the applicant legal residency in Dubai.
Apply for Partner Visa Issuance
Next, the applicant must apply for the actual issuance of the partner visa. This step involves submitting all previously gathered documents and paying the necessary fees. The partner visa can be issued for one, two, or three years, depending on the sponsor’s visa duration and the applicant’s needs. Once approved, the visa is affixed to the applicant’s passport, officially granting them the right to reside and participate in business activities in Dubai.
Apply for UAE Identity Card
The final step in the process is obtaining the UAE identity card, which is mandatory for all residents. The applicant must apply for this card at an ICA service center, providing their passport, visa, and other relevant documents.
The UAE identity card is essential for accessing various services in Dubai, including healthcare, education, and financial services. It serves as an official identification document within the UAE and is crucial for day-to-day activities and legal transactions.
Cost Breakdown of the Partner Visa
The partner visa involves several fees for both the applicant and the sponsor. The total cost depends on the duration of the visa.
- Entry permit fee: 370 AED
- Medical examination fee: 300 AED
- Resident status fee: 690 AED
- Visa issuance fee: 100 AED
- Identity card issuance fee: 100 AED
- Visa renewal fee: 250 AED
Benefits of Holding a Partner Visa in Dubai
The partner visa in Dubai offers several benefits to applicants, enhancing their residency experience in the city.
- Dubai 3-year residence visa: Provides extended stability, flexibility in life planning, enhanced security, and deeper community connections.
- Capability to sponsor close family members: Enables partners to share their business vision and goals with loved ones, fostering emotional well-being and familial bonds.
- Easy travel to GCC countries: Facilitates seamless entry and exit to Gulf Cooperation Council nations, enhancing regional mobility and cultural experiences.
- Chances of securing UAE Golden Visa: Paves the way for obtaining the prestigious UAE Golden Visa, symbolizing long-term residency and commitment to the country.
Conclusion
The partner visa in Dubai serves as a convenient option for expats seeking to reside in the city with their business partners. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the application process diligently, applicants can enjoy the various benefits offered by the partner visa. For comprehensive guidance and assistance regarding the partner visa in Dubai, individuals are encouraged to seek advice from experts in the field.Unlock your future in Dubai! Start your partner visa application today and enjoy a vibrant life and endless business opportunities. Apply now!
Feel free to contact MICS Global and arrange an initial private consultation. During this session, we’ll explore your needs in-depth and offer personalized insights to guide your journey. We look forward to connecting with you.
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