DUBAI

Dubai is a fascinating city with its own unique blend of opportunities and challenges. Many industries thrive in Dubai, including finance, technology, hospitality, real estate, and tourism. One of the most appealing aspects for expats is the tax-free income. Unlike many other countries, Dubai does not levy personal income taxes. This financial benefit can have a big impact on your entire savings and lifestyle. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures. You’ll meet people from all corners of the world, creating a vibrant and diverse environment. The visa procedure in Dubai differs based on your nationality and the reason of your visit, and while the process may appear simple, it is critical that you follow all legal requirements in order to fully enjoy the city's diverse offerings. The city provides a good standard of living with modern amenities and services. Dubai's infrastructure is remarkable, featuring renowned skyscrapers, opulent shopping complexes, and cutting-edge services.
Here are some popular visa types available for Dubai
- Tourist Visa:
- Purpose: For short-term visits (usually up to 30 days).
- Eligibility: Open to tourists and visitors.
- Validity: Typically valid for 30 days, with an option to extend for another 30 days.
- Application Process: Apply through hotels, travel agencies, or online platforms.
- Work Visa (Residence Permit):
- Purpose: For employment in Dubai.
- Eligibility: Requires sponsorship from a UAE-based employer.
- Validity: Usually valid for 2-3 years.
- Process: Employer applies for a work permit, medical tests, and Emirates ID.
- Investor Visa:
- Purpose: For investors and business owners.
- Eligibility: Requires a specific investment amount and a business plan.
- Validity: Typically valid for 3 years.
- Process: Apply through the relevant authorities.
- Retirement Visa:
- Purpose: For expatriates over 55 years old.
- Eligibility: Must meet financial criteria and have health insurance.
- Validity: Valid for 5 years.
- Process: Apply through official channels.
- Family Visa:
- Purpose: For family members of UAE residents.
- Eligibility: Sponsored by a family member (e.g., spouse, parent, child).
- Validity: Usually valid for 1-3 years.
- Process: Sponsor applies on behalf of the family member.
- Student Visa:
- Purpose: For students pursuing education in Dubai.
- Eligibility: Requires admission to a recognized educational institution.
- Validity: Depends on the study program duration.
- Process: Apply through the educational institution.
To apply for a visa to migrate or work in Dubai, follow these steps:
If you’re considering migrating or working in Dubai, here are the steps you can follow:
- Find a Suitable Job:
- Begin by searching for a job that aligns with your skills and qualifications. Dubai offers various employment opportunities across different sectors.
- Obtain a Job Offer:
- Once you secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer, you’re on the right track.
- Ensure that your employment contract is clear and covers all relevant details.
- Apply for Entry Visa Quota Approval:
- Your employer needs to apply for an entry visa quota approval. This step ensures that the company can sponsor foreign employees.
- Submit a Signed Contract of Employment:
- Provide the signed employment contract to the relevant authorities.
- This contract serves as proof of your job offer and outlines your terms of employment.
- File an Application for an Employment Entry Visa:
- Your employer will submit the necessary paperwork to apply for your employment entry visa.
- The visa allows you to enter the UAE legally and begin your work.
- Get Your Employment Entry Visa:
- Once approved, you’ll receive your employment entry visa.
- This visa is typically valid for two years and can be renewed
Visa that allows you to work
If you want to work in Dubai, you must first obtain a residence visa. This visa allows you to stay in Dubai for an extended period of time, open a bank account, and receive a driver's license.
- Standard Work Visa:
- Purpose: This visa allows you to work in Dubai for a specific employer.
- Eligibility:
- Employed in the private sector: If you’re working in a private company, you can apply for a standard work visa.
- Employed in the government sector or a free zone: If you work for the government or in a free zone, you’re also eligible for this visa.
- Validity: The standard work visa is usually issued for a period of two years1.
- Process: Your employer must apply for the residence visa on your behalf.
- Green Visa (Self-Sponsorship):
- Purpose: The Green visa is for skilled employees who want to sponsor themselves.
- Eligibility:
- Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
- Must have a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Need to provide proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma.
- Must demonstrate annual income from self-employment for the previous two years, totaling at least AED 360,000, or show financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
- Skilled Employees:
- Must have a valid employment contract.
- Should be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Need to have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
- Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
- Validity: The Green visa is initially issued for 5 years and can be renewed upon expiry
- Other Visa Types:
- Freelance Visa: If you want to work as a freelancer, consider applying for a freelance visa.
- Investor Visa: If you plan to invest in a business in Dubai, the investor visa allows you to work in the UAE indefinitely.
Visa that allows you to migrate
If you’re considering moving to Dubai, you’ll need to understand the visa options available. Dubai has become a popular destination for expats due to its career prospects, quality of life, and favorable tax system. Let’s explore the relevant visa types:
- Job Seeker Visa:
- Purpose: Use this entry permit to search for work or finalize your UAE residency.
- Validity: Up to five years.
- Eligibility: Available for job seekers.
- Process: Apply for the job seeker visa to explore employment opportunities in Dubai.
- Standard Work Visa (Residence Visa):
- Purpose: Apply for residency through your Emirati employer or an EOR (Employer of Record) visa sponsorship.
- Validity: Typically valid for 2-3 years.
- Eligibility: Requires sponsorship from an Emirati employer.
- Family Sponsorship: Allows you to bring family members with you.
- Process: Your employer handles most of the sponsorship process
- Green Work Visa (Self-Sponsorship):
- Purpose: Sponsor yourself as a sole proprietor or skilled worker indefinitely.
- Eligibility:
- Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
- Minimum annual income requirement: 360,000 Dirham ($100,000 USD).
- Skilled Employees:
- Minimum salary requirement: 180,000 Dirham ($65,000 USD).
- Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
- Family Sponsorship: Allows you to bring family members if you meet the higher earning threshold and provide accommodation.
- Process: Apply for the green work visa independently
- Virtual Work Visa:
- Purpose: Get a one-year visa as a digital nomad working for a foreign organization.
- Eligibility: Proof of employment and minimum monthly earnings of $3,500 USD.
- Process: Apply for the virtual work visa under Dubai’s Virtual Working Program.
- Golden Visa:
- Purpose: Long-term, renewable visa for specialists (no sponsorship required).
- Eligibility: Criteria vary; check if you qualify for this prestigious visa