Dubai is a quick-paced city in the United Arab Emirates that has combined traditional delight with modern technological advancements. This Middle Eastern metropolis has grown into a trading and work hub, drawing many foreign nationals.
If you choose to move to Dubai, you must go through an immigration process. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (previously called the Department of Naturalisation and Residency) handles all immigration and visa issues. In Dubai, most people aren’t citizens, but they can stay there with visas sponsored by someone else.
Usually, these residency permits need renewal after two years or more than two years. Many workers come to Dubai; usually, their companies apply for necessary visas. Business setup consultants from Shuraa Business Setup can guide you through visa procedures if you want to start your business and reside in Dubai. To know more about Immigrating to Dubai, read on.
Why Would You Think About Immigrating to Dubai?
Dubai’s numerous enticing factors are many. It is not just all about construction and up-to-date technology. First-rate education, safety, cultural exposure and a high standard of living have given Dubai the top rank. As a plus, there is no tax!
The lively business environment is one of the major attractions to many people. The current legal framework in Dubai has made it an attractive location for local and international investors and entrepreneurs. Based on HSBC research findings, Dubai is the second most profitable place for non-residents to do business.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce has several hundred registered companies, while the small and medium-sized companies sector has experienced tremendous growth. The numbers tell their own story. Dubai has a minimum of 4% annual growth, making it a commercial hub.
Getting a Visa in Dubai for the UK
If you come from the UK and wish to visit Dubai, you must sort for a visa through a sponsor beforehand. Don’t worry; it’s not as tough as it seems. You can get more details when booking your hotel and applying for a visa via Emirates Airlines or a travel agent.
If you have, however, got a valid USA Visa or Green Card or even UK or European Union Residence Visas that are valid at least six months after the date of arrival in UAE, then you are eligible for 14 14-day visa upon arriving.
However, when moving to Dubai, one needs to consider different visas. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after you move.
Here are some types of visas that may be helpful:
1. Employment Visa
This is the type most employed, and your services would therefore require your employer to make arrangements on your behalf. After getting a residence visa, its condition can be checked online.
2. Dependent Visa
If your partner or children are in Dubai, they can sponsor them. However, there is an income criterion that must be met.
3. Student Visa
If you study in any university or academic institution within the UAE during the entire education period.
4. Investor Visa
You can obtain an investor visa if you invest in a company or the purchase of property in UAE; available types are different.
5. Property Owner Visa
You can obtain a renewable residency visa for buying property in Dubai, which comes with benefits that may vary, so check them.
Remember, upon arriving in Dubai, you will have to undergo a medical test to process these visas.
What are the Documents Required?
For moving to Dubai from the UK you’ll have to provide a series of documents as part of the process, the following:
- Company Setup Application
- Passports required for the Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) shareholder, director, and General Manager
- Legally certified and authenticated copies of UK company documents (if applicable).
- Detailed business plan
How to Immigrate to Dubai?
Immigrating to Dubai consists of getting a visa, which can be done through mixed channels. Common ways include assuring a work permit visa if you have a job lined up or getting an investor visa by making important investments in the city. Business partnerships with UAE nationals can also lead to visas, either as an investor or a business partner.
Additionally, having family members in Dubai who can sponsor your visa, pursuing education with a student visa, or working as a domestic helper under sponsorship are other avenues to examine for immigration. Each option has its own requirements and duration, ranging from employment visas typically lasting up to two years to investor visas offering three-year residency.
1. Dubai Residence Visa
To get a Dubai residence visa as an investor or employer, you need to display that you have enough money to fund a Dubai company or form your own company there. You’ll need to provide documents like an Entry Permit, copies of your passport, a Trade License, a photo for your visa application, and other business-related papers. After that, you’ll have to undergo medical checks and have your visa approved by the authorities.
2. Getting a Dubai Residence Visa for Employees
If you get a job in Dubai, your employer will normally handle the paperwork for your work permit and residence visa. Here’s what you’ll need: the Visa Application Form, a photo of the application, and copies of your passport. Your employer will also deliver copies of the company’s commercial license and the employment permit administered by the Ministry of Labor. There may be an application fee applied. After that, you’ll need to go through medical checks and complete other needed labour procedures.
Why Immigrate to Dubai, UAE?
Below are the essential things when you immigrate to UAE, read below the crucial pointers:
1. Getting Your Visa and Work Permit Sorted
To live and work in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll need a visa and a work permit. The work permit is generally called a labour card. It’s essential for working here and is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
Your company is responsible for arranging these permits for you, but there are steps you can take to start the procedure. These documents show you’re allowed to enter the country, and you can get them through the UAE’s e-channels portal or various government-sponsored apps.
2. Sorting Out Your Finances
Setting up financial services like a bank account in the UAE is relatively short, given its status as a financial hub in the Middle East. Once your resident visa is authorised, a simple phone call is all it takes to set up your account.
Some expats like using foreign bank accounts, but there are benefits to having a local one. Setting up a local account is quick and easy, you usually just need your passport, visa copy, proof of salary, and Emirates ID.
3. Finding Job Opportunities
Before moving to the UAE, it’s important to secure a job offer. Without proper legal advice, navigating the paperwork to make your move to Dubai a reality can be challenging.
If you’re considering immigrating to the UAE, look for job openings on platforms like the Federal Government’s career portal or Dubai Careers. Industries like agriculture, oil, and e-commerce are big here, offering many opportunities.
Stress-Free Immigration to Dubai? It’s Possible!
After checking out our blog, we hope we’ve answered some of your questions about Immigrating to UAE. It’s not too hard! If you still have questions about immigrating to Dubai, our experts at Shuraa Business Setup are here to help. If you’re interested in starting a business in Dubai, please contact us anytime. Our team is professional and knowledgeable about setting up businesses in the UAE.