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Company setup visa

Start a free zone or mainland company and get a residence visa as its owner.

Who it suits
Founders, freelancers and investors
Residence
2 years, renewable
Usually takes
3 to 6 weeks

Setting up a company is the most common way to move to the UAE. As the owner you sponsor your own residence visa, and later your family’s. We help you choose between a free zone and a mainland licence based on what you’ll sell and to whom.

What you’ll need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • A passport photo on a white background
  • Your business activity and three company name ideas
  • Proof of address in your home country
  • Shareholder details if you have partners

How it goes

  1. 1 Choose the activity, the jurisdiction and the licence package
  2. 2 Reserve the company name and get initial approval
  3. 3 Sign the company documents and receive the trade licence
  4. 4 Apply for the entry permit, or change status if you’re already in the UAE
  5. 5 Medical test and Emirates ID biometrics
  6. 6 Residence visa issued, then open your bank account

Rules, thresholds and government fees change. We confirm the current requirements with the issuing authority before you pay anything.

Want to go ahead with this route?

Tell us a little about your situation. We’ll confirm whether you qualify and what it will cost.

Office
Al Habtoor Business Tower, Level 21, Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE, PO Box 29805
Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 18:00 (UAE time)

Include your country code, for example +90 or +971.

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