Quick Answer
The number of visas that can be sponsored in a UAE free zone depends on the size and type of the company, as well as the free zone’s visa policies. A company can sponsor visas for its employees and their dependents, and the specific free zone authority should be consulted for their policies and regulations.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to set up their businesses. The UAE offers a variety of business-friendly options, including free zones, which are designed to provide a streamlined and cost-effective platform for companies to operate from.
Dubai free zone visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to work and reside in one of these free zones So, one of the questions that often comes up when considering setting up a business in a free zone in the UAE is how many visas can be obtained.
Khairallah advocates will show you in this article, what a free zone visa is, UAE laws related to free zone visas, how many visas can be obtained, the cost of obtaining a free zone visa in Dubai, and the benefits of obtaining a free zone visa.
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What is a Free Zone Visa in UAE?
A free zone visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to work and reside in one of the many free zones in the UAE. Free zones are designated areas within the UAE where businesses can operate with relaxed regulations, 100% ownership, and tax exemptions. Free zone companies are not subject to UAE labor laws, which means that they have more flexibility in terms of recruitment and employment. This type of visa is issued by the respective free zone authorities and is only valid within that specific free zone. If an individual wishes to work outside the free zone, they will need to obtain a different type of visa
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According to UAE law, the number of visas that can be issued for a free zone company depends on the size and type of the company. Generally, a company can apply for as many visas as required to meet its business needs, subject to approval by the relevant authorities. The company must also adhere to the visa quota system, which regulates the number of visas that can be issued based on the size and type of the company.
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The number of visas that can be obtained in a free zone in UAE depends on several factors, such as the type of company, the size of the office space, and the business activity. UAE Free zones typically offer three types of visas:
Investor Visas
An investor visa is a type of visa that is available to company owners and shareholders. The number of investor visas that can be obtained varies depending on the type of business and the size of the office space. In general, the larger the office space, the more investor visas can be obtained.
For example, in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) free zone, an investor can obtain one visa for every 9 square meters of office space leased. This means that a company leasing an office space of 100 square meters can obtain up to 11 investor visas. In some free zones, such as the Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) free zone, the number of investor visas that can be obtained is not limited to office space size but is instead based on the share capital of the company.
It is important to note that some free zones have specific requirements for obtaining investor visas. For example, in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) free zone, a company must have a minimum share capital of AED 10 million to be eligible for an investor visa.
Employment Visas
An employment visa is a type of visa that is available to employees of the company. The number of employment visas that can be obtained depends on the size of the office space and the business activity. In general, the larger the office space, the more employment visas can be obtained.
For example, in the DMCC free zone, a company leasing an office space of 100 square meters can obtain up to three employment visas. However, the number of employment visas that can be obtained can vary depending on the business activity. In some free zones, such as the Dubai Internet City (DIC) free zone, companies engaged in certain activities, such as software development, can obtain a higher number of employment visas than companies engaged in other activities.
Dependent Visas
A dependent visa is a type of visa that is available for the family members of the investor or employee. The number of dependent visas that can be obtained depends on the size of the office space and the business activity. In general, the larger the office space, the more dependent visas can be obtained.
For example, in the DMCC free zone, a company leasing an office space of 100 square meters can obtain up to two dependent visas. However, the number of dependent visas that can be obtained can vary depending on the business activity. In some free zones, such as the DSO free zone, the number of dependent visas that can be obtained is not limited to office space size but is instead based on the share capital of the company.
Tips: It is important to note that the number of visas that can be obtained in a free zone in the UAE can change from time to time, and the visa regulations and requirements can vary depending on the free zone. Therefore, it is always best to check with the relevant free zone authority for the latest information and regulations before starting the visa application process.
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Free Zone Visa Dubai Cost
Dubai free zone visa prices and other UAE free zones vary depending on the type of visa, the duration of the visa, and other factors such as the company’s size and business activity.
free zone visa cost uae may include application fees, processing fees, and visa issuance fees. The cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It is important to note that the cost of obtaining a free zone visa in Dubai and other UAE free zones can be higher than other types of visas due to the additional benefits and flexibility offered by free zone companies.
How To Apply For a UAE Free Zone Visa
If you are interested in applying for a Dubai free zone visa, here are the general steps you can follow:
- Choose the free zone: Select the free zone where you would like to set up your business. Each free zone has its own set of requirements and application procedures.
- Choose the type of visa: Decide which type of visa you need based on your business requirements. Free zones typically offer different types of visas, such as investor visas, employee visas, and dependent visas.
- Submit the required documents: Gather all the necessary documents required for the visa application process. This may include a passport copy, visa application form, proof of business ownership, and financial documents.
- Obtain initial approval: Once you have submitted your application, you will receive initial approval from the free zone authority.
- Medical fitness test: After receiving initial approval, you will need to undergo a medical fitness test. This test is mandatory for all visa applicants and must be completed at a government-approved medical center.
- Visa stamping: After passing the medical fitness test, your visa will be stamped in your passport. You can then travel to the UAE and start your business activities.
It’s important to note that the process for applying for a free zone visa in the UAE can vary depending on the specific free zone you choose. Be sure to check with the free zone authority for their specific application requirements and procedures.
UAE Free Zone Visa Benefits
Some benefits of obtaining a free zone visa in UAE include:
- 100% ownership of the company
- Tax exemptions
- No currency restrictions
- No import/export duties
- Easy business setup process
- Access to world-class infrastructure and facilities
- Easy visa processing for employees and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1- How Many Years is Free Zone Visa in UAE?
The visa is valid for 3 years. Free zone visas are issued by the Immigration Department (GDRFA) without the requirement to consult the Ministry of Labour. These visas are generally straightforward to get; nevertheless, visa holders are not permitted to work outside of free zones.
2- How long is free zone visa?
The entry permit is valid for 60 days, renewable for another 60 days upon entry to the country.
3- Is Freezone visa better?
A Dubai free zone visa exempts you from paying any type of import, export, or personal taxes. Organizations are also excluded from paying corporation taxes for a set length of time, which can be extended at a later date.
The Bottom Line
the Free Zone visa in UAE has been a game-changer for the country’s economy, as it has attracted a significant amount of foreign investment and talent to the region. The Free Zone visa in Dubai allows foreign entrepreneurs and investors to establish their businesses within designated Free Zones, which provide various incentives and benefits, such as tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified visa processes.
This has helped to create a more business-friendly environment, which has boosted economic growth and created job opportunities for both Emiratis and expatriates. Overall, the UAE Free Zone visa has been a successful initiative that has contributed to the UAE’s economic diversification strategy and increased its global competitiveness.
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we are a Chinese Company that has a subsidiary in ADGM free zone. They would like to apply for employment visas for their employees. According to our knowledge, the number of visas that an ADGM company can apply for will depend on the relevant size of the working space. According to our knowledge, we currently can apply for one employment visa for every 8 sqm of their working space.
We have heard some other companies at ADGM can apply for one employment visa with spaces less than 8 sqm. Therefore, we would like to know the specific policy in this regard and the corresponding government documents, if any.
Your work scope might include the following:
a. Conducting research on the quota for companies to apply working visas for their employees in Abu Dhabi, specifically for an ADGM company;
b. Providing a report on the issue abovementioned including listing out the relevant laws, regulations, government rules, and specifical policies, explaining the rules for an ADGM company to apply for working visa for their employees, explaining whether there is any special policy and its eligibility and setting out the application procedures.