Many people dream of moving to Dubai to live, start a business, or work. There are many types of visas available in the UAE, but the Partner Visa (sometimes also called an investor visa) is the best option for business owners and entrepreneurs.
This visa allows many foreign nationals to become legal residents of Dubai by owning or partnering in a company registered in the UAE.
If you are considering applying for a partner visa, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the process, requirements, documents, eligibility, costs, and benefits.
What is a Partner Visa in Dubai?
Individuals who own a share in a business registered in Dubai need to get a partner visa, which is a type of UAE residence visa. It is not the same as an employment visa and family visa; the partner visa is directly linked to business ownership.
If you invest in or become a shareholder in a UAE company, you have to do it legally with a partner visa.
Benefits of a Partner Visa in Dubai
Holding a partner visa in Dubai comes with several advantages that make living, working, and investing in the UAE more convenient and rewarding. Below are the major benefits you can enjoy:
Residency in Dubai
A partner visa grants you legal residency in Dubai, allowing you to live and thrive in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. You’ll have access to Dubai’s modern infrastructure, healthcare, education, and recreational facilities. Living in Dubai becomes seamless and hassle-free when you hold a valid residency visa.
Family Sponsorship
One of the biggest advantages of a partner visa is the ability to sponsor your immediate family members. Once you meet the financial requirements, you can bring your spouse, children, and even parents to live with you in the UAE.
This makes it easier to build a stable family life while enjoying the comforts and opportunities the country offers, all under your sponsorship.
Business Ownership
With a partner visa, you gain the right to legally own or co-own a business in Dubai. Whether you wish to start a new venture or become a partner in an existing UAE-registered company, this visa provides the necessary legal standing.
It’s an ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want to invest, operate, and grow their businesses in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Banking Access
Having a partner visa simplifies financial transactions and banking activities in Dubai. You can:
- Open both personal and corporate bank accounts
- Apply for credit cards
- Take out loans
- Access a range of financial services available to residents.
This access is essential for managing daily expenses and running business operations efficiently.
Travel Ease
You can freely travel in and out of the UAE because a partner visa offers multiple-entry privileges during the visa’s validity period. This flexibility is especially beneficial for:
- Business owners
- Investors
- Individuals who frequently travel abroad for work or personal reasons.
It saves you from the hassle of reapplying for entry permits each time you leave or return.
Renewable Residency
The partner visa is typically renewable every 2–3 years, depending on your business and immigration status. Renewal is a straightforward process, ensuring long-term stability and peace of mind for you and your family. With timely renewals, you get to continue enjoying all the legal rights and benefits of residency without interruption.
Eligibility Criteria for Partner Visa
To obtain a Partner Visa in Dubai, applicants must meet certain requirements set by the UAE authorities. This visa is typically available to individuals who invest in or become shareholders of a company in Dubai. Meeting the financial, legal, and documentation criteria is essential to qualify. Following are the eligibility criteria for Partner Visa.
- Business Ownership – You must be a shareholder in a UAE company (Mainland or Free Zone).
- Share Value Requirement – Minimum share capital usually AED 72,000 or more.
- Company Registration – Business must be officially licensed or registered.
- Age & Health – Applicants age must be over 18, they should be medically fitted and free from transferable diseases .
Documents Required for Partner Visa
Documents that are required for Partner Visa are very important, so make sure to have complete documents before applying for a Partner Visa. Documents that are required for the Dubai Partner Visa are listed below.
- Valid passport copy (at least 6 months)
- Passport-sized photos (white background)
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) / Share certificate
- Trade license of the company
- Entry permit (for applicants outside the UAE)
- Emirates ID application form
- Medical fitness test results (done in Dubai)
- Copy of existing visa/cancellation (if applicable)
Step-by-Step Process to get a Partner visa in Dubai
Applying for a Partner Visa in Dubai may seem complicated at first, but the process is quite straightforward once you know the steps. From setting up your company to finalizing medical tests and Emirates ID registration, each stage plays a crucial role in securing your residency.
1. Register your Company
- Free Zone: Register your Company with the authentic Free Zone authority.
- Mainland: register it with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
2. Apply for an Entry Permit
If applying from outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit(it is valid for 60 days).
3. Medical Fitness Test
Blood test and chest X-ray should be done at a Dubai government health center.
4. Emirates ID Application
Submit biometrics (photo and fingerprints required).
5. Visa Stamping
A visa stamped in your passport confirming residency status in the UAE
Final Thoughts
Partner Visa is a gateway for the opportunities of both residency and business in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. It gives you the right to live, work, and invest in the UAE. You can also sponsor your family.
Though the process requires proper documentation and financial commitment, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
If you want a hassle-free process, consider hiring a business consultancy or PRO service or agents to manage all the work of applications.
Getting your Partner Visa in Dubai is a step toward your dream of living and investing in the UAE.
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