Chapter 10
Visas & Immigration
To legally live and work in the UAE, individuals must obtain a residence visa.
There are several visa options, including the Golden Visa, Property Owner Visa, Retirement Visa, Family Visa, and Student Visa, but for entrepreneurs, the Investor Visa is most relevant. This visa grants holders the right to live and work in the UAE for the duration of the visa, which is generally valid for two years for mainland companies and three years for free zone companies. The visa must be renewed before its expiration to maintain legal status.
Steps for Obtaining a Residence Visa
1
Company Incorporation: The applicant must first incorporate a company in the UAE.
2
Immigration Establishment Card (IEC): Once the company is established, an IEC must be obtained to sponsor employees and shareholders for visas.
3
Entry Permit or Visa Status Change: If the applicant is outside the UAE, an Entry Permit is required. If inside the UAE, a Visa Status Change is initiated.
4
Medical Examination: The applicant must undergo a medical check (blood test and chest x-ray) to ensure they meet health requirements.
5
Biometric Collection: A fingerprint scan is mandatory for new residency visa applicants.
6
Emirates ID Application: After completing the medical exam and biometrics, the applicant must apply for an Emirates ID, which is essential for accessing services in the UAE.
Immigration Establishment Card (IEC)
The Immigration Establishment Card is a critical document for companies operating in the UAE, allowing them to sponsor employees and shareholders for visas. To obtain an IEC, companies must register with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) or, in the case of Dubai companies, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Registration Requirements:
- Company name and address.
- Business license.
- Names and passport numbers of directors.
- Names and passport numbers of employees under company sponsorship.
Free zones typically assist with obtaining the IEC for companies incorporated within their jurisdiction. Once all necessary information is submitted, the card is issued by the ICP or GDRFA.
Medical Examination
Medical screening is a mandatory part of the visa application process and visa renewal. The medical exam includes a blood test and chest x-ray to ensure the applicant meets the UAE’s health standards for residency. Failure to pass these tests may result in visa rejection.
Biometrics Collection
All first-time applicants for UAE residency are required to submit their biometric data, which includes fingerprint scanning. This step ensures that the government has accurate identification records for all residents.
Emiratisation Policy
The Emirates ID is a legal requirement for all UAE residents and citizens. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), the Emirates ID serves as a primary identification document and must be carried at all times.
Common Uses of the Emirates ID:
- Opening bank accounts.
- Applying for a UAE driver’s license.
- Connecting utilities.
- Renting or purchasing property.
- Using government eServices.
- Submitting insurance applications.
The Emirates ID is essential for accessing a wide range of services, making it an indispensable part of life in the UAE.
