Dubai residence visa - Apply to Dubai (UAE) residency program

Apply to UAE residency program

United Arab Emirates Residence by Investment Program

OVERVIEW

Outside of employment, outstanding profession, student visas, or retirement visas, Long-Term Residency in the UAE is available to any foreign national who invests in the country. There are various conditions to qualify, and investments can be done in the public sector, in businesses, or through property purchase in the real estate market. It is particularly attractive because, while the investor has the right to reside anywhere in the seven Emirates, they can also travel back and forth as they please, with minimal physical presence requirements.

To gain residency by investment in the UAE, one must apply to the local authority, often meeting a Minimum investment threshold. The Dubai Investor Residence Visa is a specialty type of visa that grants numerous other rights to the investor. The holder of this UAE Residence Visa can potentially become a tax resident of the UAE, gain eligibility for an Emirate ID card and UAE driving license, and open a bank account, among other benefits. This residency status also allows the investor to sponsor their family, including their spouse, children, and parents, to enter and reside in the UAE.

Interested in becoming a UAE resident? J.H. Marlin can help you!

Dubai Residence Visa

Main Advantages of the Residence Visa Program

BUSINESS ADVANTAGES

FAMILY ADVANTAGES

PERSONAL FREEDOM

Summary of Main Benefits of UAE residency

Ability to open a bank account
Gain access to financial facilities
Ability to apply for driving license
Ability to access health services
Ability to register children in school (private schools are available)
Ability to travel visa free to certain destinations

Important Considerations when applying for UAE residency

The UAE does not offer a permanent residency status. Instead, it provides five- or ten-year Long-Term Residency options that must be renewed periodically.
If the investor does not visit the UAE at least once every 180 days (six months), the residency status can be canceled.
In most situations, the UAE does not offer a direct path to citizenship by naturalisation. Therefore, acquiring residency rarely leads to full citizenship.
Current UAE regulations do not allow dual citizenship for most foreign nationals, which means a Golden Visa does not grant another nationality.

Requirements for UAE Residency Application (or Golden Visa)

Applicants must be at least 18 years old
Applicants must have a clean criminal record
Applicants must be in good health, which includes a medical examination
There is a Minimum investment threshold, and applicants typically must show Bank statements indicating a monthly income of at least AED 10,000 (~US$ 2,722)

How much does a Dubai residence visa cost?

The application fees vary based on the type of visa and whether additional conditions apply, such as dependents, extended periods of stay, or special categories like academic achievements. Other factors, including exceptional services or the involvement of business owners in a business incubator, may also influence the overall cost.

Investor Visa in Dubai

The different routes to the Dubai Investor Visa (UAE Residency)

Public Investment

This route requires a public investment of at least AED 10 million (~US$2.72 million). Possible methods include:
1. Depositing funds in a local investment program approved by the UAE, totaling at least AED 10 million
2. Establishing a company in the UAE with capital of no less than AED 10 million, ensuring compliance with foreign ownership rules
3. Partnering in a new or established venture, with a share value of at least AED 10 million
4. Combining any of these options to reach the total AED 10 million in business investments
The investment must be maintained for at least three years to preserve the residency status.
This type of visa can be renewed every ten years and allows the holder to sponsor family members, one executive director, an advisor, and even a business partner, provided they also meet the ownership of companies requirement.

Real Estate Investment

This option includes the purchase of a property in a freehold area designated by the UAE, which may include residential or commercial properties.
The investment must be at least AED 1 million. Even if there is joint ownership, each property owner must satisfy the admission criteria to maintain a valid visa.
This permit remains valid for three years and is renewable as long as you uphold the required conditions.
You can also opt for a property purchase of AED 5 million in the real estate market to obtain a five-year UAE Golden Visa.
Real estate investments do not allow the investor to work within the UAE, and physical presence is necessary at least once every 180 days.

Company Incorporation and Investment

This route applies to those who invest in or launch their own venture in a free zone, enabling ownership of companies and fostering business growth.
The investor must hold shares in an existing company or establish a new business with at least AED 72,000 in capital.
This form of investment grants a five-year Golden Visa, which is renewable.
Many view the UAE as an attractive destination thanks to streamlined international transfers, educational opportunities for families, and the potential for exceptional talents to thrive.

How to get a residence visa in Dubai?

Clients contact JH Marlin to begin the process
An initial due diligence review is performed, requiring documents like an original passport and identity cards.
A client agreement is signed, and the retainer is settled.
Applicants decide which specialty investment path suits them best—real estate or company formation.
Files are assembled, and all relevant paperwork is gathered.
You must finalize your investment obligations, whether it’s completing a property purchase or allocating capital to the new business.
If you lack a valid visa to enter the UAE, an entry permit is required. This can be obtained through the Federal Authorities for Identity and Citizenship’s Channels.
You submit your application to the local authority in Dubai upon arrival.
Once accepted, an appointment is scheduled for biometrics, and the residency permit is issued, granting access to benefits such as medical education options and future support.

Documents Required for UAE Residency Application

Original and certified copy of valid passport
Entry visa
3 passport-size pictures
Bank statements (past 6 months)
Proof of health insurance
Proof of registration of real estate (ie. title deeds)
Medical certificate
Police clearance certificate
Proof of income
Birth certificate
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Divorce certificate (if applicable)
Note: A detailed list of documents and admission criteria can be provided to you once we know your particular case. This helps streamline the application process and ensures you meet the visa validity period requirements for a long-term residence visa or a Dubai Golden option.

Cryptocurrency businesses are choosing Dubai!

Many expats consider Dubai an attractive destination due to its robust infrastructure, political stability, and growing status as a hub for foreign ownership. Whether you are a remote worker, a foreign investor, or part of specialised talents seeking global business expansion, Dubai offers top-tier education programmes, international schools, and even medical education opportunities.

Its strategic location facilitates international transfers, making it easier to operate worldwide. While the climate can be quite warm, the city’s appeal remains strong among those seeking countries visa advantages and potential paths to citizenship by naturalisation.

Why work with JH Marlin to become a Dubai (UAE) resident by investing?

Contact JH Marlin today and start your journey towards an Investor Visa in Dubai

We handle all aspects of the process from start to finish. Our team will help determine which long-term residence visa is best for you, guiding you through each stage of the application process. We provide expert legal advice and personalized service, ensuring a smooth experience whether you are pursuing foreign ownership or specialized business ventures. Our global network of partners stands ready to coordinate your case, helping you achieve a seamless transition into Dubai’s dynamic environment.