How to Apply for an Investor Visa in UAE: Step-by-Step Guide
The UAE investor visa (also known as investor residence visa) allows business owners and entrepreneurs to live and work in the United Arab Emirates. This comprehensive guide walks you through the complete application process for 2025.
What is an Investor Visa?
An investor visa is a residence permit granted to individuals who own a business in the UAE. It typically comes with a 2-3 year validity and allows the holder to sponsor family members and employees. Unlike employment visas, investor visas give you the freedom to manage your own business without needing a local sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria
You Must:
- ✓Own a company in UAE mainland or freezone
- ✓Have a valid trade license
- ✓Meet minimum capital requirements (varies by emirate)
- ✓Pass medical fitness test
- ✓Have no criminal record
- ✓Provide proof of financial stability
Required Documents
Application Process
Establish Your Company
5-7 daysFirst, set up your mainland or freezone company and obtain trade license
Submit Entry Permit Application
2-3 daysApply for entry permit through immigration department
Medical Fitness Test
1 dayComplete medical examination at approved center
Emirates ID Application
1 dayApply for Emirates ID card at typing center
Visa Stamping
2-3 daysFinal visa stamping in passport at immigration
Receive Residence Visa
10-15 days totalCollect your residence visa and Emirates ID
Costs Involved
Processing Timeline
The complete investor visa process typically takes 10-15 working days from start to finish, assuming all documents are ready and there are no complications. Here's the breakdown:
- Entry permit approval: 2-3 days
- Medical test and Emirates ID application: 1-2 days
- Status change and visa stamping: 5-7 days
- Emirates ID collection: 10-15 days (after application)
Visa Validity and Renewal
Investor visas are typically issued for 2-3 years depending on your company license validity. You must renew your visa before it expires to maintain legal residence status in the UAE.
Important: Start the renewal process at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines and complications.
Family Sponsorship
With an investor visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents (subject to minimum salary requirements). Each family member will need their own residence visa, medical test, and Emirates ID.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete documentation causing delays
- Not maintaining valid health insurance (mandatory)
- Missing medical test validity dates
- Forgetting to renew before expiry
- Not updating visa status after company changes
Why Use ARZ Al Najah for Your Investor Visa?
Navigating the UAE visa system can be complex with frequent regulation changes. Our PRO services team handles the entire process for you - from document preparation to final visa collection. We ensure fast processing, zero errors, and full compliance with immigration requirements.