The United Arab Emirates is a land of opportunity, and the Indian community is a powerful testament to that. With an estimated 3.5 million, Indian expatriates make up about 30% of the UAE’s population, becoming the largest ethnic community in the country. For those interested in joining this thriving community, obtaining a UAE resident visa is the first step.
This isn’t just a story of numbers. India and the UAE have enjoyed strong trade and commercial ties for centuries, fostering a deep-rooted connection. What truly sets the Indian community apart is its incredible diversity. From the 65% who contribute to the UAE’s construction boom and agricultural sector as blue-collar workers to the 20% who handle clerical, sales, and accounting tasks, the Indian community plays a vital role across various professions. And let’s not forget the impressive 15% of professionals and business owners!
So, if you are also willing to join this force, here’s How To Obtain A UAE Resident Visa for Indian Nationals – we at CorpCreators are here to guide you. Not just business setup in Dubai but in this article, we will look at the 7 most effective methods to get a UAE residency visa in the region!
The 7 Methods to Obtain a UAE Resident Visa for Indian Nationals:
Here is a table summarizing the various methods Indian nationals can secure residency in the UAE:
Let’s understand the specifics and requirements of every option to ensure a smooth and successful journey towards becoming a resident in the Emirates.
1. Real Estate Investor:
Invest in your future and secure residency in the UAE through real estate.
- Minimum Investment:
- AED 750,000 for a 2-year visa.
- AED 2,000,000 or more for a coveted 10-year visa.
- Property Options
The choice is yours! Invest in residential or commercial properties anywhere in the UAE.
- Documents Required:
- Real estate ownership certificate
- Letter confirming property value from the Dubai Land Department (if applicable)
- Supporting documents from your bank (if using a mortgage)
- Real estate purchase and sale agreement
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of no marriage for children over 18 (if applicable)
- UAE and home country police clearance certificates
- Passport copy
- Medical insurance
- Valid visa copy (if already in the UAE)
- Color passport-size photo (3×4 cm)
2. Entrepreneurship:
There are three main paths to a residency visa in Dubai as an entrepreneur, with varying investment levels and benefits:
1. Business Setup in Dubai Mainland or Across the UAE:
- Minimum Investment: AED 15,000 to AED 50,000. This investment can be in any legal business activity.
- Visa Type: Regular Business Visa
- Validity: 5 or 10 years
- Process:
- Company Registration: Register your business with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai.
- Local Sponsor (Optional): You get 100% ownership in Dubai on your company formation in the mainland. But sometimes you may require a local sponsor depending on your business activity. Check DED guidelines for your chosen activity or ask CorpCreators right away!
- Business License: Obtain a business license after fulfilling DED requirements.
- Visa Application: Apply for your residency visa online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) website.
2. Business Setup in Free Zone or Anywhere in the UAE:
- Investment: Initiating a business in a Free Zone may incur a minimal initial expense starting from AED 4,000. Annually, acquiring a Trading, Service, or Industrial license can cost between AED 10,000 and AED 50,000. However, exact amounts vary depending on the free zone or the business activity.
- Visa Type: It varies depending on the free zone.
- Validity: Typically, multiple years, with renewals required.
- Process:
- Choose a Free Zone: Select a free zone that aligns with your business activity. You can enjoy 100% ownership in Dubai free zones!
- Free Zone Authority: Contact the chosen free zone authority to understand their specific visa options and requirements.
- Company Setup: Follow the free zone’s procedures for setting up your business, which may include obtaining a physical office space within the zone.
- Visa Application: Apply for your residency visa through the free zone authority itself.
3. Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs:
The UAE offers a prestigious Golden Visa program specifically for entrepreneurs with exceptional ventures. This visa allows you and your family to live, work, and study in the UAE for 10 years, with the option to renew. Here are the qualifying options:
- Invest AED 2,000,000 or more: This substantial investment unlocks a 10-year Golden Visa.
- Join a startup incubator: Partner with a UAE government-approved incubator and get your innovative business off the ground. A 10-year visa awaits successful applicants.
- Own a high-revenue company: Does your established business boast an annual revenue of at least AED 1,000,000? You might qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa.
- Sell a successful company: If you have built and sold a company for a cool AED 7,000,000 or more, a 10-year Golden Visa is your reward.
4. Employment:
Land a job with a UAE company offering visa sponsorship (employer handles application). Visa duration matches your employment contract (typically 1 year, renewable).
5. Talented Professionals:
For exceptional talent in specific fields (science, medicine, arts, etc.), a 10-year visa is available. Apply electronically on the ICP website. Costs vary by profession and Emirate (e.g., artist’s permit in Dubai: AED 3,860).
6. Student Visa:
Pursue higher education at an accredited UAE university. The initial visa is for 1 year, with renewals possible for up to 5-10 years based on academic performance. Requires an English proficiency test (IELTS 5.5+). Living expenses are not included.
Documents Required:
- Acceptance letter from the UAE university
- Passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical certificate
- Proof of financial support – bank statements or sponsorship letter
Please note that student visas generally don’t permit part-time employment. However, some universities offer scholarship programs that might cover living costs.
7. Freelancer Visa:
Ideal for remote workers and self-employed professionals. Obtain a license from a designated free zone (application process varies). Costs depend on profession and age (e.g., Ajman Free Zone: AED 6,000 per year). Valid for 1 year with renewal options.
8. Retirement Visa:
For retirees aged 55+ with a steady income stream from outside the UAE. Choose one option:
- Earn a monthly pension of at least AED 15,000.
- Deposit AED 1,000,000 for 3+ years in a UAE bank.
- Invest in Dubai property worth at least AED 1,000,000.
- 5-year visa to enjoy retirement in the UAE.
Documents Required:
- Passport with validity exceeding six months
- Proof of monthly pension or investment funds
- Medical fitness certificate
- Emirates ID (if already a UAE resident)
- Passport-size photographs
Conclusion:
With its diverse visa options, the UAE welcomes individuals with a variety of goals and aspirations. Carefully consider your circumstances and choose the path that best facilitates your dreams in the land of opportunity. Need advice? Book a free consultation with an expert from CorpCreators today!
