Relocating to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers access to a world-class lifestyle, zero income tax, and growing business opportunities. But for many entrepreneurs and investors, a common question arises: How can I get UAE residency through business setup? At Prolink TFS, we help clients explore this pathway through clear, compliant, and personalized guidance.
This guide outlines how to obtain a UAE residency visa through company formation, covering the visa types, business setup options, application process, typical costs, and real-world tips drawn from direct experience.
Table of Contents
UAE Visa Types for Business Setup and Investor Residency
Visa Type Comparison – Investor Visa, Employment Visa, and Residence Visa in the UAE
If you’re planning to start a business in the UAE, you’ll choose from the following visa types:
- Investor Visa: For shareholders or partners in a UAE-registered company.
- Employment Visa: Tied to an employer’s sponsorship. Not ideal for business owners.
- Residence Visa: A general category that includes long-term stays via business, investment, or property ownership.
- UAE Golden Visa: This is a long-term residence visa that allows eligible individuals to live, work, and study in the UAE for 5 or 10 years, with the possibility of renewal.
Choosing the Right Type of Visa for Business in the UAE
Each visa type serves a different purpose. If your goal is to set up a company in Dubai, the investor visa is the best option, as it directly links your residency to business ownership, offering greater control, long-term stability, legal residence, and the ability to sponsor dependents, giving you autonomy over your professional and personal life in the UAE.
Dubai Free Zone vs Mainland – Best Jurisdiction for UAE Residence Visa
Free Zone Company Formation and Residence Visa Benefits
Free zones such as IFZA, DMCC, or Meydan FZ allow 100% foreign ownership, tax-free benefits, and simplified residency issuance. Ideal for remote consultants, startups, and digital entrepreneurs.
Mainland Company Registration and Dubai Residency Options
Mainland entities allow you to conduct business within the UAE directly, access government tenders, and offer broader flexibility but typically come with higher setup requirements.
Offshore Business Setup – Can You Obtain a Residence Visa This Way?
No. Offshore companies do not grant UAE residence visas. These are suited for asset protection, not relocation.
Expert Insight:
Free zones are often best for those seeking quick setup and a visa, but not all free zones offer the same level of flexibility. Always confirm visa quotas and business activity permissions before proceeding.
Step-by-Step Guide: How Can I Get UAE Residency Through Business Setup?
Set Up a Business in Dubai
- Choose your type of business
- Decide between mainland or free zone
- Reserve your trade name and submit incorporation documents
How to Apply for Your UAE Investor Visa
- Receive an entry permit (valid for 60 days)
- Complete medical test, biometric data, and Emirates ID
- Visa stamped into your passport upon approval
What to Expect Next:
After receiving your entry permit, you must finalize medical and ID procedures within 60 days. Delays in biometric uploads can slow the process we always check that results are properly uploaded before scheduling ID appointments.
If you’re wondering how can I get UAE residency through business setup, this process when followed step by step provides one of the most direct, flexible paths to live and work in the UAE legally.
Company Formation in Dubai – How to Register Your Company and Apply for a UAE Visa
Setting up a company in Dubai is a multi-step process, but when approached correctly, it opens the door to UAE residency, banking access, and business opportunity.
Business License and Company Registration Requirements in the UAE
To register a company, you’ll typically need:
- Passport copies of all shareholders or partners
- Passport photo (white background)
- Business activity approval based on licensing category
- Lease agreement (office space or Flexi-desk)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Articles of Association (AOA), depending on the jurisdiction
- Establishment Card issued by the Immigration Authority
Beyond your trade license, an Establishment Card (also known as an Immigration Card) is essential. Issued by the Immigration Authority of the respective emirate, it formally registers your company for visa processing and allows you to sponsor employees and yourself.
The registration timeline ranges from 5 to 10 working days. Selecting the right license type is crucial:
- Professional license: For consulting, service, or freelancer-type activities
- Commercial license: For trading or e-commerce
- Industrial license: For manufacturing or production
Choosing the correct legal structure (e.g., FZE, LLC, Sole Establishment) isn’t just about paperwork it determines your ability to sponsor dependents, issue visas, and remain compliant with UAE regulations, aligning your setup with your long-term residency goals.
Type of Business You Can Set Up in Dubai for Residency Visa Eligibility
Nearly all businesses qualify for residence visa issuance. Popular categories include:
- Management consultancy
- Digital marketing or content creation
- Online trading or e-commerce
- Logistics and freight
- Software development or tech services
Tip: At Prolink TFS, we assist clients in matching their desired business model with the most visa-flexible licensing authority to avoid setup or renewal complications.
Common Mistakes When Applying for UAE Residency Through Business Setup
- Minor spelling errors across documents (e.g., name inconsistencies)
- Registering an activity not eligible for visas
- Failure to notarize or attest documents in home country (e.g., birth/marriage certificates)
- Overlooking establishment card renewal, which can suspend your visa eligibility
- Missing the Emirates ID timeline due to delayed medical uploads
Proactive planning during company setup avoids delays later in the visa process. We help clients flag risk areas early to keep things smooth.
UAE Residency Visa Through Investor Visa and Business Ownership
How to Obtain a Residence Visa Through Company Formation as an Investor
Once your company is licensed, you can apply for a UAE investor visa linked to your ownership. This visa typically lasts 2 or 3 years and is renewable, often requiring a minimum share capital ranging from AED 12,500 to AED 72,000 (depending on the chosen jurisdiction and business activity). For longer-term visas like the 5-year Green Visa for entrepreneurs, a minimum capital contribution of AED 1 million might be required, while the 10-year Golden Visa for investors generally necessitates an investment of AED 2 million or more in public investments or real estate.
UAE Investor Visa vs. Other Business-Related Visa Options
- Investor Visa: Based on shareholding and linked to your registered business in the UAE.
- Other Visa Options: These long-term residency option like the Golden Visa or Green Visa, which are available to entrepreneurs, investors, or highly skilled professionals not necessarily tied to company ownership alone (e.g., property investment).
Costs, Documentation, and Visa Application Process for UAE Residency
Cost Breakdown
| Factor | Entry Tier Setup (AED) | Mid-Tier Setup (AED) | Premium Free Zone (e.g., DMCC, DIFC, ADGM) (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | 5,750 | 8,500 | 12,000–20,000+ |
| Visa & Emirates ID | 2,800–3,500 | 4,000 | 5,000–6,000 |
| PRO/Consultancy Fees | 1,500 | 3,000 | 5,000+ |
| Total | ~10,000–12,000 | ~15,500–17,000 | ~22,000–30,000+ |
The final price depends on multiple factors including:
- Free zone vs mainland
- Chosen business activity
- Office type (Flexi-desk vs private space)
- Number of visa allocations
Some packages advertise lower prices but exclude essentials like Emirates ID, medical test, or establishment card. Always confirm the full scope.
Tip: Clarify whether the medical test, Emirates ID, and establishment card are included before purchasing a setup package. Transparent pricing ensures fewer surprises and better budgeting.
Note: Pricing is for reference purpose and should be verified when you have your consultation with your consultant.
Work Visa and Employment Visa in the UAE vs Business Residency Visa
If you’re currently employed in the UAE, your employment visa is tied to a specific employer. By contrast, a residence visa through business gives you greater independence and flexibility. Many professionals transition from employment to self-sponsorship by setting up a company and applying for an investor visa.
Business in Dubai – Setting Up a Company to Become a UAE Resident
Business Activities That Qualify for UAE Residency Visa
Almost all legal business types qualify, including:
- Tech & software
- Coaching & consulting
- Online retail
- Events & marketing
Prolink TFS guides you to select the optimal activity code, ensuring it aligns with both your business goals and visa eligibility criteria.
Establish a Company in a Dubai Free Zone or Mainland
Depending on your goals (e.g., selling to UAE customers vs global clientele), you’ll choose the type of company and licensing authority accordingly.
Dubai Residency Through Business Setup – Real Example
Case Study: A Real Client Story
One of our recent clients, a freelance content strategist from South Africa, contacted us after researching multiple options for obtaining residency in the UAE. Her primary concerns were affordability, speed, and flexibility to work remotely.
After understanding her goals, we recommended IFZA a well-known free zone that allows remote business setup and includes visa issuance in its packages.
- License + visa package: AED 16,900
- Timeline: 3 weeks from application
- Residency duration: 2 years with Emirates ID and establishment card
“As someone who works with international clients, setting up in Dubai gave me legitimacy, tax efficiency, and stability. The process felt surprisingly smooth thanks to the guidance provided.” – Sara M.
FAQs – UAE Residence Visa Through Company Registration and Setup
What Type of Business Should I Register for UAE Residency?
Any legal activity permitted by UAE free zones or mainland authorities. Consulting, trading, and IT services are most common.
Can I Start a Business in Dubai Without Living in the UAE?
Yes, many free zones allow for remote company setup, meaning you can register your business and obtain your license without being physically present in the UAE. However, please note that certain crucial steps for obtaining the actual residency visa such as completing biometric data collection (fingerprints/photos) and the medical fitness test will require your physical presence in the UAE for a short period. You can apply for your entry permit (which allows you to enter for these steps) after licensing.
Is the UAE Residency Visa Renewable?
Yes. Most investor visas are valid for 2 years and can be renewed if your company license remains active.
Can I Sponsor My Family Through My Investor Visa?
Yes. You’ll need a valid tenancy contract, salary certificate, and attested documents. Income thresholds start from AED 4,000/month.
How Can I Get UAE Residency Through Business Setup in 2025?
You can obtain UAE residency by registering a company in a UAE free zone or mainland jurisdiction. Once your business license is issued, you can apply for a residency visa linked to your ownership. This is one of the most direct and flexible ways to get UAE residency as an entrepreneur or investor.
Life After UAE Residency – What Comes Next?
Obtaining your UAE residence visa through business setup opens the door to a wide range of practical next steps and it’s important to be ready for them.
Once you receive your Emirates ID, you’re eligible to:
- Apply for a UAE driving license (if you hold an eligible license from your home country, you may be able to exchange it)
- Open personal and business bank accounts, though the latter can involve strict compliance reviews
- Rent or buy property in Dubai
- Sponsor your spouse, children, or domestic staff, subject to minimum income thresholds and attested documentation
- Access government and utility services like DEWA, telecommunications, and healthcare registration
- Enroll your children in private or international schools
- Access zero personal income tax benefits
Prolink TFS offers onboarding assistance through our Partner 360 Global Relocations for these next steps, helping you get settled from driving license conversion to setting up your first bank account in the UAE.
Ongoing Compliance: Staying a Legal UAE Resident
- Renew your residence visa and Emirates ID before expiry (typically every 2–3 years)
- Maintain a valid trade license for your company to avoid visa cancellation
- Avoid extended absences from the UAE residency can be revoked if you’re outside the country for more than 180 consecutive days
Tip: Set reminders well in advance of license and visa expiry dates, and keep your business active to avoid disruption. Planning for post-visa life ensures your UAE move is not only successful but sustainable. Whether you’re managing your business solo or relocating with a family, preparation at this stage makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Is Business Setup the Right Route to UAE Residency?
If you’re seeking long-term residency in Dubai, company formation is a powerful and strategic route. While there are steps and paperwork involved, working with a knowledgeable consultant makes the process far easier.
At Prolink TFS, our goal is to support your journey at every step from selecting the right structure to completing your visa process and navigating post-residency life. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or small business founder, the UAE offers flexibility, lifestyle, and opportunity for those ready to make the move.