Licensing, PRO & Visas
Investor, Partner & Employment Visas in the UAE
An investor or partner visa grants UAE residency to a company owner, while employment visas cover staff sponsored by the company. Visa quota depends on the licence and premises, and each visa requires entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID biometrics and visa stamping.
Last reviewed · Reviewed by Mahmoud Mansour, Founder & Managing Director (lawyer in the UAE since 2006) · EH Management Consultancy LLC, Dubai
At a glance
Key facts about investor & Employment Visas
- Quota
- Linked to licence type and premises size
- Stages
- Entry permit, status change, medical, Emirates ID, stamping
- Authorities
- ICP, GDRFA and MOHRE depending on emirate and visa type
- Validity
- Typically two years for standard residence visas
- Family
- Dependants can be sponsored once income and housing rules are met
Who it is for
Is this the right service for you?
- New company owners
- Partners and shareholders
- Companies hiring staff
- Residents sponsoring family
Process
How it works, step by step
-
01
Confirm quota
Check visas available under the licence.
-
02
Entry permit
Apply for an entry permit, or status change if already in the UAE.
-
03
Medical test
Complete the required medical screening.
-
04
Emirates ID
Submit biometrics for the national ID.
-
05
Visa stamping
Receive the residence visa in passport or digital form.
Documents
What you typically need
- Passport and photograph
- Trade licence and establishment card
- Ejari or lease
- Medical certificate
- Attested qualifications where required
Cost
What drives the price
Fees depend on your situation, so we quote after a short consultation with no hidden extras. The main factors are:
- Government visa and ID fees
- Medical and insurance
- Typing and service fees
- Urgent processing
Frequently asked
Questions about investor & Employment Visas
How many visas can my company have?
It depends on the licence and premises. Free zones set a quota by package, while mainland capacity is linked to office size.
Can I sponsor my family?
Usually yes once you hold a residence visa and meet income and accommodation rules.
Do I have to be in the UAE to apply?
The medical test and Emirates ID biometrics require presence in the UAE.
How long is a residence visa valid?
Standard UAE residence visas are commonly issued for two years, depending on the visa type.
Official sources
Verify it yourself
Rules and fees change. These government and regulator pages are the authoritative references behind this page.
Related services
Often needed together
Talk to an EHMC consultant
Tell us about your business and get a clear, written path with timelines and costs.